Design and implementation of web-based software system for virtual universities for development and administration of on-line courses

Abstract

The research work presented in thesis covers the design and development of a number of web-based software tools, which are integrated to setup a customizable website for Virtual Learning. This software system can be used by institutions like Virtual Universities and Traditional Universities, wishing to expend into the arena of Virtual Learning. The software system has three sets of utalities. First one for students, second one for faculty and third one for virtual university administration. The proposed software system for virtual university is based on the Asynchronous model of Distance Learning. The courses will be available on-line through internet and students at distance can register and select their desired courses. The software developed for the Virtual University has three main modules; Students Control Panel Faculty Control Panel Administrator Control Panel Students Control Panel includes student’s registration, attend courses, results, notice board, change password, attempt papers and assignments options. In Faculty Control Panel, teaching staff can put their lecture notes and reading lists on the web for students to browse and communicate with students via e-mail and generate their teaching courses web pages. Faculty area also includes a course-authoring tool. The course wizard is a multiple feature package which allows the instructors to design their courses for distribution on internet. This is done via an on-line graphic interface using the web browser. No programming or HTML experience is required to use this tool. There is also an Administrator Control Panel. The job of the Administrator is to maintain and update the information system of the virtual university. Administrators’ work closely with technical and support service personnel, ensuring that technological resources are effectively deployed.