We interrupt this blog for a commercial announcement.
Elearning Blueprints are online tools that walk you through the process of designing and writing lively elearning content. They’re my latest project, and the first blueprint goes into beta in about two weeks. So I’m looking for beta testers who are willing to trade their opinions for free access to the tool.
As a beta tester, you’ll get access to an easy-to-use web site that will help you:
- Design and write clear, engaging elearning materials on any subject
- Immediately apply the ideas to your current project
- Use research-based best practices that will make your elearning more powerful
- Find and share creative ideas
- Streamline your elearning development
A hands-on guide
The blueprint could be used as a standalone course, but it’s really intended to be used while you work on an elearning project. Worksheets and other tools help you immediately apply the process to your materials.
The first blueprint, cleverly code-named “Basic,” is intended for subject matter experts and others who are new to instructional design. However, the process it describes is helpful for anyone. It can be used with any elearning development tool, including rapid tools.
You’re not alone
The blueprint is built on a wiki. For the Basic blueprint, this means that each page has a comments section where you can add your ideas or questions. All other users can see your comments and respond. If the Basic version gets enough interest, I’ll release far more advanced collaboration and customization features.
I’m thoroughly sold on the power of wikis as elearning development and delivery platforms. I’ll describe the possibilities later, but for now, please check out the humble Basic Blueprint.
I can’t access the URL, but would love to take part in the BETA. This tool could definitely prove to be useful in our context.
Mark, thanks for your interest in the beta test. We have all the beta testers we need at this point, but I’ll be sure to let you know when the first blueprint is available.
I’m not sure why you can’t access the URL. I’ve sent you a private email about that.
Looking forward to eLearning tools for mac.
Hi, Cathy
I’m an Instructional Designer and storyboarder and I’m very interested to try new eLearning tools.
About Blueprint, is it possible to try an evaluating version?
In this moment I make courses by Articulate, but I would like to enlarge my field of action in developing learning materials.
thanks in advance
Lisa
Lisa, thanks for your question. To clarify my original post, the elearning blueprint is a web site that gives you a procedure to follow when you design a course. It isn’t a tool that creates elearning. It’s a job aid that helps you prepare content before you put it in a development tool.
For example, the blueprint will help you think of activities that will help learners practice their new skills and keep them engaged in the course.
The first blueprint is currently being tested, and at this point we have all the testers we need. I’ve put you on the list of people to be contacted when the site is available.
Hi, not sure where this Blueprint project stands, but I would love to take a look at it, participate in any testing that might still be going on, etc.
If/when it is ready for release, I”d appreciate it if you would let me know. I do subscribe to your blog (as of today!), so maybe more information will be on there at some point?
Thanks.
Jeanne, thanks for your interest in the blueprint. I’ve been giving priority to client work so unfortunately the blueprint development has been slow. I hope to release it this year and will be sure to announce the release on this blog.
At this stage in my career, I need to understand e-learning concepts and best practices. I can’t find a better way of getting involved in “Blueprint” Than participating in the beta testing… Count me in!
Hello Cathy:
I do ID for a private academy and would appreciate the opportunity to work with your Beta program. I’m finishing a M.A. in Education and preparing to begin a M.S. in Education – Instructional Design curriculum in about 4 weeks.
Thanks for your interest in the blueprint. It’s out of beta and is now available here:
http://www.elearningblueprint.com