THE Inspired | Cynthia “Cyndy” Guillen, MBA, PMP, CSM

E-Learning Tools that Inspire Me

There are several design principles that have really inspired me during the course. First, I enjoyed using PowerPoint with animations to create a learning object, creating an infographic job aid, and the micro learning video. I found these tools to be very effective for captivating the learner’s attention. This directly impacts the learner’s capacity for learning and retaining new information,. Dirksen, J., 2015 states, “If your learners are having to force themselves to pay attention, there’s a limit to how long they are going to be able to exert the control necessary to do so” (pp. 129)

Learning Objects

Learning Objects engage the learning in interacting with the content. The concept behind creating PowerPoints that are interactive is to allow the learner to explore the content further. These PowerPoints are best produced with layers of information, such as hyperlinking a link that leads the user to deeper into information within the PowerPoint presentation. According to Dirksen, (2015) visual cues are an important factor for attracting and maintaining the learner’s attention; to do so, you must talk to the visceral and verbal brain (pp. 158).

This is an example of a learning object, as my first attempt it is missing the ability for the user to click through multiple layers and hyperlinks. In the future, when I create these types of learning objects I will incorporate both features.

Infographic Job Aid

Infographic job aids are a great informal learning support tool. They are great for solving problems on the job as they arise, when learners need them most. A good job aid supports communicating situational methods and attitudes that are important to the learner’s job performance so that the learner does not have to wait for formal instruction. When used in addition to formal course materials like a micro-learning video they can improve workflows and increase productivity. These are most useful when they are mobile friendly and are able to be accessed on demand. Dirksen, (2015) says, “Attention is much easier for learners when they are going to be able to use the material right away” (pp. 159). Job-aids can create the feeling of immediate usefulness.

This is an example of an infographic.

Micro Learning Video

Micro-learning videos can be utilized as a formal or informal instructional solution to skills or processes that do not change often. Like the info-graphic, these support instructional goals best when they are mobile friendly and can be accessed on demand. Unlike job-aids, micro-learning videos can teach skills and attitudes that support an organization’s performance expectations, such as, identified gaps in skills or knowledge. According to Dirksen, (2015), when designing for knowledge it is important to remember that, “The right content is less than you think it is, has enough detail but no more, and is relevant to learners” (pp. 193).

This is an example of a mirco learning video

https://animoto.com/play/wrnmVE360afyZvfArKy1PQ

Reference:

Dirksen, J. (2015). Design for how people learn. Berkeley, CA: New Riders.