DIY eLearning - do it, but do it right
There has been an explosion of eLearning authoring tools that promise the ability to create effective, engaging eLearning content without even the need to know what 'HTML' means. Expensive or free, downloaded or used online - the options are endless.
We've noticed that as clients start to explore them, as many questions arise:
- Is 'simple' eLearning good enough?
-How do we make it genuinely 'interactive'?
-How do we make finished modules available?
-How will we maintain it?
-Do we have the expertise to use the tools well, and if not, how do we get it without getting stuck with an expensive consultant?
Our view?
-There are some fundamental attributes of any eLearning package that you should be able to achieve. If you can't, don't start.
-The better DIY authoring tools do set up an environment where you can create effective content without programming knowledge. However it doesn't follow that anyone can use them effectively. Not everyone can use a welding machine, a spreadsheet, or a syringe....
The essentials....
-The visual design and standard of content must reflect well on the brand of the organisation
-The information design must be pedagogically sound
-The modules must be transportable between delivery platforms
-The learner's brain must be actively engaged by the material through at least some interactivity
-It must be economical to maintain
As we reviewed and used the available tools, we realised that most applications provide varying degrees of functionality, but don't give authors the structure they need to create effective content. We also found many of the better tools prohibitively expensive. It wasn't just the purchase price, it was the time and cost of getting authors to the point where they could use the tool to create good content quickly.
Our response has been to launch ReB, the Synapsys Rapid eLearning Builder. It's a web based environment where we populate modules with page templates that reflect well on the client's brand and embed sound educational design features. As a web based service the cost model is very competitive, and clients can pick and choose how much support they need from us on an ad hoc basis. If you'd like to know more about ReB, contact us.
Posted by PhilGaring at January 21, 2010 03:33 PM
