Learning Technology
From versatile learning management systems to immersive learning environments, interactive tools, and AI, these technologies enhance the learning experience and breaks barriers, ensuring learning is inclusive and available to all.
Disclaimer: In compliance with Non-Disclosure Agreements, all content is a generalized summary without disclosing any identifying or proprietary information.
Immersive Technology with a Healthcare Organization
Target Audience: Practitioners and Nurses
Responsibilities: Instructional Design, Action Mapping (Needs Analysis), solutioning, storyboarding, eLearning Development, Graphic Design
Tools Used: Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, PowerPoint, Articulate Storyline, custom HTML and CSS
Needs Analysis
The target audience comprised of practicing nurses who needed to extend their learning and stay current in the field. A needs analysis, conducted with both the organization and the end-user nurses in mind, helped identify the learning required. Nurses need to recognize deterioration and be equipped with the necessary scientific, medical, and technological knowledge to effectively reverse deterioration.
Solution
The course content was structured into a series of scaffolded modules. This allowed for a gradual build-up of knowledge, where each module served as a stepping stone to more complex concepts. This design ensured nurses could learn new information effectively, building upon their existing knowledge base.
A key feature of this course was the development of an immersive simulation, designed to provide a practice opportunity with a case study. This simulation involved complex branching scenarios, enabling nurses to practice critical decision-making skills in real-time. They were tasked with identifying signs of patient deterioration, administering appropriate medication, and utilizing emergency department technology in high-stakes situations.
The case study simulation was instrumental in allowing nurses to apply their newly learned knowledge. This experiential learning aspect not only reinforced their knowledge, but also boosted their confidence in handling real patient care scenarios, bridging the gap between classroom learning and practical application.
Results
This course received positive feedback from learners and the organization. Learning objectives were met and nurses improved their ability to recognize and respond to patient deterioration, reflecting the practical value and effectiveness of the course.
Moving forward, Natasha will assist with the development of the advanced version of this course. This next phase aims to introduce more complex scenarios and simulations, further enhancing the nurses’ skills and preparedness for challenging medical situations.
Interactive Tools: On-Demand Instructional Design Courses
Target Audience: Individuals who are early in their career or transitioning into the realm of instructional design. This includes, but is not limited to trainers, facilitators, or training coordinators.
Responsibilities: Instructional Design, Action Mapping (Needs Analysis), solutioning, SCORM storyboarding, video storyboarding, scripting, eLearning Development, Graphic Design
Tools Used: PowerPoint, Photoshop, Articulate Storyline, custom HTML and CSS, Thought Industries (LMS)
Needs Analysis
The needs analysis for this project had a dual objective: educating newcomers to instructional design and subtly encouraging them to deepen their engagement through membership registration. These courses need to be designed as an introductory pathway; providing essential knowledge, but also strategically showcasing the benefits of more comprehensive member-exclusive content.
Recognizing the unique challenges faced by this audience, such as a lack of familiarity with instructional design principles and the need for flexible learning options, on-demand learning resources were essential. These on-demand courses would be affordable and allow users to learn at their own pace.
Solution
In response to the diverse needs of learners making a career shift into instructional design, a dynamic library of on-demand courses was developed. These courses, designed to be concise yet comprehensive, cover a spectrum of topics from working with subject matter experts (SMEs) to applying artificial intelligence (AI) and mixed reality (XR) in learning and development. Each course was structured to approximately 45 minutes, aligning with our goal for optimal seat time while maintaining engagement.
Features of these courses consisted of interactive SCORM videos. These videos present learners with decision-making scenarios relevant to instructional design. For example, learners might encounter a situation where they guide a fictional character through the learning process, making choices that affect the narrative and learning outcome. This branching video technique not only enhanced engagement, but also allowed for practical application of theoretical knowledge.
Articulate Stroyline, with additional custom HTML and CSS coding, was leveraged to create interactive knowledge checks. These knowledge checks were strategically placed to reinforce learning and understanding adhering to the lower levels of Bloom’s Taxonomy. Our approach ensured that foundational knowledge was solidified before advancing to more complex concepts.
Results
Feedback from the users and stakeholders praised the interactive elements, especially the branching scenario, which was immersive and had a practical approach to learning. This on-demand format proved ideal for busy professionals making a career transition, who often juggle learning with other responsibilities.
Shifting Learning Management Systems
Target Audience: Professionals who want to improve their consulting skills.
Responsibilities: Instructional Design, Script and Storyboard Development, Iterative Design Revisions, LMS Adaptation and Customization, Synchronous and Asynchronous Course Design and Redesign
Tools Used: PowerPoint, Photoshop, Articulate Storyline, custom HTML and CSS, Thought Industries (LMS), Adobe Connect, Bongo
Needs Analysis
Initially, this 2-month blended course was designed for an older, learning management system (LMS) and collaborative video platform, with scripts and storyboards tailored to their specific functionalities. However, a shift to Thought Industries and Adobe Connect necessitated a rapid re-assessment of course design to align with the new LMS capabilities and limitations.
Solution
Adapting to this change, the team simultaneously entered a re-design and development phases. Thought Industries was used to its full potential, leveraging its accessible features and integrating technologies like Bongo and custom CSS for the asynchronous components. For the synchronous modules, Adobe Connect was used which offered more robust interactive options for learners. This required a significant redesign, focusing on the unique interactive features of Adobe Connect.
Results
The course was successfully developed, incorporating the advanced features of both Thought Industries and Adobe Connect. It is set to launch later in 2024. The transition, although challenging, led to the exploration and full utilization of new LMS capabilities, ultimately enhancing the learning experience. The project stands as a testament to Natasha and her team’s adaptability and commitment to delivering high-quality learning programs despite significant mid-course changes.