There are so many learning technology tools that can help deliver successful learning experiences. When selecting technologies to use in distance learning, it is important to make sure that the technology chosen will assist in meeting the learning objective. Whether the learning is face-to-face instruction, blended learning, or asynchronous and collaborative learning, the technology tool should enhance and support the learning goal, not distract from it (Simonson, 2012). Instructional designers need to keep the learning objectives as the focus, not the technology.
Let’s analyze a given scenario about a collaborative training environment.
A new automated staff information system was recently purchased by a major corporation and needs to be implemented in six regional offices. Unfortunately, the staff is located throughout all the different offices and cannot meet at the same time or in the same location. As an instructional designer for the corporation, you have been charged with implementing a training workshop for these offices. As part of the training, you were advised how imperative it is that the staff members share information, in the form of screen captures and documents, and participate in ongoing collaboration.
As an instructional designer, what learning technologies would BEST provide for this given challenge? The above scenario has issues with time, location, and the need for collaboration. The tools chosen need to address these 3 main issues.
Let’s look at time and location together. Utilizing products, such as GoToMeeting or Elluminate, can bring together learners from all six offices without the learners needing to leave their location. Both are web based webinar tools that can either be utilized in a “live” webinar training where screens can be shared and questions can be asked during the training process. Additionally, they both can be recorded. That means that those who could not attend the live session or sessions can access the recorded version of the webinar and ask any additional questions via email to the trainer or instructor. Another option would be prior to webinar training; each office can appoint a designated Training Leader for the new staff information system. By doing so, each location has a SME to use as a resource within their building after the training is complete.
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| Reach more trainees |
| Consistency in training delivery using your best trainer |
| Save money- no location or travel costs |
| Can utilize assessments for understanding |
| Record and utilize in the future as needed |
(Confertel, 2011)
Next, let’s address the need for collaboration. My suggestion would be the utilization of a LOR (learning object repository). An LOR gives the ability to share documents, screenshots, videos, audio files, and simulations. LOR’s organize content into meaningful “buckets” for access. Additionally, LOR programs encourage collaboration about the content or a specific portion of the training module. Learners can comment, exchange ideas, and rate the material.
Click below to find out more about the LOR learning technology.
WHAT IS AN LOR (learnit2teach, 2012)
Webinar tools and LOR access can be combined to support a positive, student centered learning environment. In the case of our example scenario, the combination would provide training to all members of the organization, regardless of location and time constraints and be a resource as needed while the organization implements the new staff information system. The LOR will provide communication, collaboration, and social learning opportunities for the members of the organization. That support will nourish transfer of knowledge that is meaningful and applicable to their respective work environment.
Resources:
Confertel. (2011, March). The Benefits of Using Webinars for Training. Retrieved 2013 July, from YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zvTKOMeHMlQ
learnit2teach. (2012, May). What is a Learning Object Repository. Retrieved July 2013, from youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ACqacrLBMXA
Simonson, S. A. (2012). Teaching and Learning at a Distance. New York: Pearson.
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