Scenario design workshop

Research shows that decision-making scenarios are more effective than simple assessments at helping learners remember new knowledge on the job. Even if your elearning budget is small, your team can create compelling scenarios that support long-term performance change and motivate your learners.

Length: 60 minutes

Audience: People who design elearning that’s intended to change attitudes, thinking skills, or behavior

Prerequisites: Some familiarity with elearning

Goal: Participants will use a simple formula to brainstorm realistic decision-making scenarios that motivate their learners and help them practice the skills that they need to use on the job.

Description: In this interactive session, participants will first identify the decisions and actions that learners need to make on the job. Then they’ll use a simple formula to brainstorm realistic scenarios that help learners practice making those decisions and taking those actions. These scenarios could be short, one-choice scenes or complex, branching stories.

Participants will be encouraged to move information out of their courses and into real-world job aids that learners use during the scenarios and, later, on the job.

Participants will end up with ideas and a framework that will help them design scenario-rich elearning that supports measurable, long-term change.

Here’s a version of the workshop that I gave at several locations in Australia:

Format: Each workshop is a mix of presentation, group design simulation, and discussion. I ask participants thought-provoking questions throughout the session. Sessions can be recorded and distributed internally.

Virtual workshops are held online using web conferencing software that works in most browsers. Participants use chat (typing) or audio to share ideas and ask questions.

Simulations: In the workshop, we apply new concepts to realistic but easy-to-understand training challenges, such as increasing security or reducing injuries in familiar settings. This helps participants practice new design skills without being distracted by unfamiliar content. While the examples used are standardized, the discussion is tailored to your audience. More customization is available; please see below.

Custom workshops available: I’m happy to customize the workshop or to create a completely unique experience tailored to your needs and goals. Please contact me for details.

Hands-on design aid available: After a workshop, help your team continue to apply their new skills by giving them access to the Elearning Blueprint, an interactive job aid that helps anyone design lively elearning. Learn more about the blueprint.