Web-based learning environments present many problems for adult learners. Course designers have difficulty in identifying instructional strategies for different adult learning styles. While it is crucial to design an effective delivery system when developing multimedia instruction, it is more important that the learner is able to make sense of the learning environment. In order to reach that goal, a Web-based learning design must include instructions that get the learner’s attention, give relevance to the subject, and allow the student to feel confident and satisfied in the learning process.

This study involved the development of a Web-based learning module with subsequent evaluation for validity of subject matter content as well as for the module design. Results of the survey evaluating the module revealed several important considerations of the multimedia design. These results indicated that there were many difficulties in both the development of an effective multimedia learning module as well as with the development of content which can achieve the desired learner performance objectives.

While this research used Mayer’s principles of multimedia design in the development of a Web-based module that takes into consideration the human cognitive aspects involved in the learning processes, the findings from the evaluation suggest that further development work is needed on the application of theoretical multimedia design principles when designing Web-based learning. Study results clearly indicated that a single evaluation using these multimedia principles was not sufficient; however the information received from the expert reviewers did provide sufficient direction for next steps in achieving a learning prototype that could be tested with the target audience.