eLearning course content is as vast and varied as online learners. Each content type and learning style brings with it specific challenges to custom course development. For this reason, many eLearning methods and activities exist today, and each is best suited to a particular kind of learner. These methods and learning activities are:
Whether your eLearning audience is an adult learner involved in professional training or a young learner in need of the intrinsic motivation provided by game based learning, Web Courseworks takes the time to know the learner and to select the appropriate eLearning method. As a part of our custom course development, Web Courseworks constructs learning activities using a spectrum of interactivity from tutorial (as the least interactive) to game-based learning (as the most interactive).
At Web Courseworks, our developers will work with you to create a unique interface and learning activities that fit the needs of your learners. Contact us for more information about what our custom course development team can do for you and your learners. The following are some examples of the eLearning methods and learning activities we have applied to previous custom courses:
- The tutorial method delivers content mostly as on-screen text. It assumes a self-motivated, usually adult learner. At Web Courseworks, the tutorial courses are often supplemented with video or Flash interaction to keep the learner engaged.
Example:
A branch of the United States military wanted a way to train their recruiters and also to track the training data. The tutorial method provided an excellent way for them to do both. The course provided the training their recruiters needed. It also contained knowledge checks and course quizzes to test knowledge as the learner advanced through the material.
- The case study delivers content mostly as narrative, which makes it useful for both adult learners and for children. The case study learning activity provides a real life situation similar to the one the learner might encounter.
Example:
For a client providing banking training, Web Courseworks used case studies to demonstrate exemplary employee response. During a lesson on natural disaster, Web Courseworks used a case study to show how one manager handled the disruption caused by Hurricane Katrina. This case study reinforced the lesson and added a practical approach that would help the learner retain the information.
- The branching scenarios involve a narrative in which the learner chooses an action and directs the course of the narrative. This learning activity increases interactivity, and the branching story prepares the learner for a similar situation in real life.
Example:
Our client wanted an online alcohol, drugs, and tobacco education program. Branching scenarios allowed the learners, middle school students, to experience pressure situations and to develop strategies to handle these difficult situations.
- Exploratory learning features open-ended lessons, which require learners to ask questions and conduct investigations.
Example:
Web Courseworks utilized this method when developing a dynamic website with multiple open and interactive components for an online forum that encourages children in grades K-12 to pursue higher education. Each child created a virtual companion or “Buddy” with whom to explore the web site. This eLearning method empowered the learner to discover information as an individual.
- Software Simulations enable the end users to learn a new software application through an artificial, asynchronous process. The learner goes through the software process virtually before using it on the job.
Example:
One Web Courseworks client, a major insurance company, utilized this type of learning activity when training employees to use a new client data application.
- Virtual machine simulations allow learners to practice complex processes or to operate delicate instruments before they are required to follow the same processes in real life.
Example:
For a medical supplier, Web Courseworks created a virtual machine to teach anesthesiologists how to operate new medical equipment before they started their hands-on training.
- Game-based Learning is designed to wholly engage the learner in the complexity of the experience. Learners absorb the lesson as a part of the play inherent in the design of the game. Games use intrinsic motivation to keep child or adult learners focused on the activity.
Example:
For a prominent draught beer brewer and supplier, Web Courseworks created an immersive learning simulation (a flash game with three levels) revolving around the skills and techniques needed for bartender services, such as washing glasses, checking IDs, and serving customers. This use of game-based learning method trained them not only through game tutorials and the gaming process but also through the inherent reward system of the game: good customer service earned the points—in tips—required to win the game.
Go to Success Stories for demonstrations of these eLearning methods. |
