To branch, or not to branch, that is the e-learning question

With Dan Richards, Interactive Advantage Corp.

To be, or not to be, that is the question:

Whether 'tis Nobler in the mind to suffer

The Slings and Arrows of outrageous Fortune,

Or to take Arms against a Sea of troubles,           

-- William Shakespeare

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Strategic Learning and Information Solutions

To branch, or not to branch, that is the e-learning questionDan Richards

Session Overview

Review of Instructional Path Models

Example of “Branching” Treatments

Planning and Storyboarding SBL

Review of Scenario Based Learning

Strategic Learning and Information Solutions

To branch, or not to branch, that is the e-learning questionDan Richards

What is Scenario Based Learning?

Simulation of real-world tasks or software tasks Contextualized learning Authentic and relevant Directed problem solving and rehearsal Adaptively or realistically structured Not just memorization and regurgitation Requires thought, judgement, application Driven by emotion and relation

Strategic Learning and Information Solutions

To branch, or not to branch, that is the e-learning questionDan Richards

Benefits of Scenario Based Learning

Demands engagement in learning concepts Provides an opportunity to explore and fail safely/constructively Can require research and discovery Promotes self-direction and self-reliance Can be timed, time-limited, scored, tracked Can involve multiple perspectives and collaboration Requires knowledge/skill application and connection Supports performance improvement and measurement

Strategic Learning and Information Solutions

To branch, or not to branch, that is the e-learning questionDan Richards

What is an Instructional Path Model?

A pre-defined scenario interaction and remediation structure A way to conceptualize the flow A modular construct that can be combined with others Basis for e-learning templates and production

Scenario-based Learning and Instructional Path ModelsDan Richards

Example Instructional Path Model #1

One ‘correct’ or ‘success’ path User can try different ‘incorrect’ or ‘failure’ paths Each path has feedback One path to debrief

Scenario-based Learning and Instructional Path ModelsDan Richards

Example Instructional Path Model #2

All paths neutral All paths lead to debrief

Scenario-based Learning and Instructional Path ModelsDan Richards

Example Instructional Path Model #3

All paths neutral All paths lead to decision point Requires a Next button on decision point screen

Scenario-based Learning and Instructional Path ModelsDan Richards

Example Instructional Path Model #4

All paths have unique point values All paths lead to next path model No debrief until conclusion

Scenario-based Learning and Instructional Path ModelsDan Richards

Example Instructional Path Model #4

Scenario-based Learning and Instructional Path ModelsDan Richards

Combining Instructional Path Models

Natural flow as decisions are made Same path model used in combination

Scenario-based Learning and Instructional Path ModelsDan Richards

The IPM “Combinatorial Explosion”

Each path leads to a new, separate path

Scenario-based Learning and Instructional Path ModelsDan Richards

The IPM “Combinatorial Explosion”

More difficult to design, develop, navigate

Strategic Learning and Information Solutions

To branch, or not to branch, that is the e-learning questionDan Richards

Examples

Behavioural/Simulated Real-world Software Simulation Mid Map

Strategic Learning and Information Solutions

To branch, or not to branch, that is the e-learning questionDan Richards

Limiting Branching

Keep it simple Rely on the story Keep it modular Present paths to different scenarios rather than build paths inside scenarios

Strategic Learning and Information Solutions

To branch, or not to branch, that is the e-learning questionDan Richards

Reasons to Branch

Role of the learner– Should happen before the scenario

Variations on a scenario– Should happen before the scenario

Averse events in a happy path– Popular in conflict resolution

Allow exploration of “incorrect” choices

Strategic Learning and Information Solutions

To branch, or not to branch, that is the e-learning questionDan Richards

Planning and Storyboarding for Scenario Based Learning

Instructional path models drive template development– Examples help team design and develop

Mind mapping tools allow for visual planning– Improves understanding of the flow

Templates for instructional design– Storyboard template has placeholders for all required info

Templates for developers– Includes prebuilt navigation and functionality

Strategic Learning and Information Solutions

To branch, or not to branch, that is the e-learning questionDan Richards

Presenter Contact Info

Dan RichardsVP of Professional ServicesInteractive Advantage Corporation (IAC)O 770-945-9466C 404-432-5534dan.richards@interactiveadvantage.comwww.interactiveadvantage.com Strategic Learning and Information Solutions