Multi-purposed Elearning Offers Adaptive Solutions

With the arrival of COVID-19 disrupting travel and working environments, the need for robust, effective, and interactive online learning has never been more vital. Despite in-person training limitations, programs still need to meet commitment to stakeholders and partner countries and prove adaptability through the development of quick solutions that maintain quality products, continue to transfer knowledge, and ensure successful critical missions. As an example, some programs restructured their eLearning to incorporate Dr. Michael Allen’s CCAF (Context, Challenge, Activity, Feedback) Model, which is built on adult learning theories and practical course design. This update led to the development of eLearning templates and eLearning Development Guides, both of which have proven to be instrumental tools in meeting the increased demand for eLearning courses.This demand also led to the need for innovative solutions to the online learning development process, resulting in the exploration of new tools, such as macros automation and Articulate Review 360. These changes enabled eLearning development teams to collaborate in virtual environments, created more efficient practices, and resulted in a more learner-centric review process with subject matter experts. The demand for eLearning courses has increased not only because they present flexibility to trainees by offering remote, self-paced training options, but because they can also be used as a complimentary enhancements to virtual instructor-led training. In place of in-person demonstrations and scenario-based activities, individual components such as animations, graphics, guided practices, and videos from eLearning modules can be utilized to illustrate programmatic concepts. Incorporating these components that are specifically designed for online learning creates consistency between deliveries and allows continued outreach with partner agencies amid ever-changing conditions.