The current study examined the effects of a video-driven multimedia, web-based, competency-based professional development program in contrast to a live, instructor-led program, using the same instructional content on organizational leadership. Specifically, the following hypothesis was tested: A video-driven multimedia, web-based professional development program is pedagogically equivalent to a live, instructor-led program in delivering competency-based professional development training, as measured by knowledge gains. Further, certain components in the web-based environment are more effective for learning. To simplify the process while maintaining the integrity of the NOVEX analysis approach, this study used a modified version of the NOVEX analysis as a methodology for the instructional design of the web-based instructional content with an emphasis on relational and strategic information processing. The instructional content was delivered through a video-driven multimedia, web-based learning environment.
For purposes of this study pedagogical equivalence was operationalized by the participants’ knowledge gains and mastery of the instructional content. The effectiveness of the instructional design was operationalized in terms of certain components in the learning environment (i.e., videos, whiteboard, PowerPoint). A multiple choice post-test measured the equivalence of the instruction modalities, and a self-reported post-test measured the participants’ responses to the effectiveness of the components. Effectiveness was operationalized as its enhancement of learning in the learning environment.