“DESIGN IS THE KEY”

Today, the E-Learning world must be viewed with caution. The opportunities provided by this potentially powerful training medium are being mitigated by the preponderance of adapted PowerPoints and converted written procedures. Consequently, E-Learning is being compromised by these word-heavy “information” programs — all far removed from effective learning principles.

Ultimately, E-Learning’s future lies with knowledgeable Instructional Designers who can return training to the learning-richness of the Interactive Laser Videodisc and CD-ROM days. Because the salient characteristics of effective E-Learning design are so complex, we’ll resort to an outline method in order to achieve a somewhat full overview:

The Need for Instructional Designers

Today, too much courseware creation resides with technical writers and programmers.
Consequently, excellent instructional design may be more important than ever.
Rooted in full motion video, the designer can be more creative with online offerings.
Optional word-word audio becomes the “secret ingredient” to effective online learning.

Why Full Motion Video is Necessary

We’re not a “reading culture” society – maybe never were.

Nearly 40% of America’s workforce do not read above a 4^th grade level.
Barely one-third of high school graduates are traditionally literate.

Implications for Instructional Designers

The written words in an on-line lesson reach only a minority.

Hence, designers must find new ways for video and audio to bridge the gap.
All script language must have a “to-be-heard” option.

Design Requirements for Online Learning

Navigation through a lesson is simple, consistent, and intuitive.

Instruction is meaningful and interactive.
Adult learning characteristics are accommodated.
Industrial management requirements are satisfied.
Media is appropriately integrated as part of the learning experience.

Commercial End User Requirements

The online lesson provides adequate learning for the targeted audience.

The online lesson “works” on intended delivery systems: Internet and intranets.
The online lesson “works” efficiently with your LMS.

If the promise of E-Learning is going to be realized, a return to well designed courseware — based on full motion video and optional word-for-word audio, along with the newer gaming techniques — will be the ultimate answer.