Design for the Web
The Internet opens up possibilities for web writers to design their materials in ways that emphasise visual communication and use appealing graphical layout and features. However, this very freedom can lead to pages that are confusing and difficult to read if good design principles are not followed.
Educational design for the Web
Simplicity is the key to effective educational web design. While arresting colour and graphics are important means of communicating visually, communication is the operative concept – let your students know where they are, tell them clearly what you want them to know and where you want them to go next. Too much saturated colour and pages with too lengthy text can prove confusing, almost unreadable, and ultimately a barrier to learning.
Refer to UNEonline Fact Sheet 11 for basic pointers about effective screen design and to Web design sources for a selection of information sites on the topic. Use these sources in conjunction with the Web style guide and the Web publishing guidelines.