Scenario-based learning (SBL) is one of the most effective ways to create highly effective learning content. Why? Because, unlike the “click next” type of content, scenarios force learners to engage with the content. And, depending on how they structure the scenarios, trainers can stimulate critical thinking among learners (or groups of learners), and build anticipation (“I wonder what happens next!”) to produce highly sticky courses. eLearning Building Blocks The objective of SBL is to provide realistic (or as close to real-life as possible!) skills to learners, that they can subsequently transfer to the workforce. However, to produce realistic scenarios, we sometimes go overboard with too many details and lots of situational data. In doing so, we risk causing cognitive overload among learners. Conversely, not providing sufficient data related to the “teachable items”, or framing scenarios without first offering proper context, may leave learners hamstrung in their … [Read more...] about Eight Highly Effective eLearning Scenario Building Blocks L&D Teams Must Consider
The ELearning Course Designer’s Blog
The Art of Building and Using Scenarios in ELearning Courses
At a very macro level, a scenario is a story-based learning aid, set around realistic (or real-like) situations, which highlight potential consequences of behavioral choices. They are built to generate learner interaction with the content and provide meaningful feedback between learner and trainer. Sounds rather complex at first read. So, let's explore scenarios in greater detail, and understand their role in creating highly engaging and impactful eLearning content. Understanding what scenarios do Sometimes, learners dread the thought of attending training – for instance, mandatory certification courses. They’re dull, routine, and repetitive, with not much to look forward to. At other times, eLearning topics may be extremely simple – for instance a course on building fire protocols, or exceptionally technical and complex – for example, a course on calibrating and troubleshooting digital weighing scales. The result in all these instances: Instant learner disengagement! By … [Read more...] about The Art of Building and Using Scenarios in ELearning Courses
How To Host Effective Webinars!
Webinars are effective at gaining your learner's trust, delivering valuable content in a concise way, and if utilized properly, a seamless marketing channel for selling your online courses. What you need to host a webinar There are a few things you'll need to host a professional-looking webinar, whether you opt to do it live or as a pre-recorded/automated production. Let's talk about the options and how to set yourself up for a successful webinar launch. Software The program you choose to host your webinar is as important as the content you plan to include. Ultimately, you want to choose a program that you're intimately familiar with (or are willing to invest the time to learn). Tech issues during a webinar, especially when hosted live, are one of the quickest ways to lose credibility with your audience. Here are a few popular options to explore. Each has its own set of advantages, disadvantages, costs, and usability. Go To Webinar Zoom Google Hangouts Easy … [Read more...] about How To Host Effective Webinars!
Job Aids – When To Use Them And When NOT To Use Them
Job aids are simple instructions on how to do something at work. They should be thought of as complementary resources to training with the purpose of supporting your learner's day-to-day activities. checklists worksheets memory jogger decision tables flowcharts one-pagers diagrams procedure guides reference documents direction lists instructions But, when should you include job aids in your course? #1 Help The Learner Remember How To Do Something Your training course will only go so far. After the learner has taken the course, the knowledge may or may not be retained. Job aids help answer the question, “How do I do that again?” To make job aids as effective as possible, remember that they must be readily available and as concise as possible. #2 Help Solve A Problem Job aids can solve many problems by simply providing an answer - immediately. For example, a cheat sheet on how to complete a process can be posted right next to a workstation. The job aid shows … [Read more...] about Job Aids – When To Use Them And When NOT To Use Them
5 Tips To Produce High-Quality ELearning Videos
If I had to guess, you’ve been doing A LOT more video and virtual content recently! Here are a few tips that you can apply immediately to get the most out of your audio-visuals, from recording course content to publishing YouTube videos, or just putting your best face (and voice) forward on your next Zoom meeting. Tip#1 Camera setup If you could see behind the scenes of some of my first video setups, I bet you’d get a kick out of it! I’ve had my equipment propped on some questionably precarious household items to get the right angle for a shot. For most “people” shots (interviews, meetings, webinars, etc.), you’ll want the camera positioned slightly above the face, shooting down. Have you ever noticed the Instagram Models taking their best selfies? They’re always holding the camera at about a 45° angle above their face. Channel the IG Model. Upgrade: a tripod for your phone or camera. I purchased a slick one from Amazon. Cost: $23.49. Now, I’m getting much better shots without … [Read more...] about 5 Tips To Produce High-Quality ELearning Videos
How to Scaffold eLearning Content: Four Proven Strategies and Tactics Worth Exploring
FACT: People learn differently, and learning and development (L&D) professionals must adapt to that reality to get results. But, sometimes, it’s not practical to create multiple, personalized versions of an eLearning course to cater to three (or more!) different learning styles. That would take too much time, effort, and resources to make eLearning cost-effective for companies and freelance L&D professionals. So, what’s the answer? Scaffolding! In this post, we’ll explain what scaffolding is, and discuss a popular misconception about it. We’ll also explore some scaffolding strategies and tactics that eLearning creators may consider to make their courses more engaging and effective to their audiences. MISSING THE POINT ON SCAFFOLDING Some L&D professionals, especially those new to the field, might equate scaffolding to “personalization” – it is not! Assuming the two are synonymous would risk missing the point of scaffolding. Unlike personalization, scaffolding … [Read more...] about How to Scaffold eLearning Content: Four Proven Strategies and Tactics Worth Exploring