Tuesday 16 March 2010

Converting classroom courses to online

Use a print-based framework for your finished product; however, augment the print-based material with short audio-video tutorials (created with Adobe Captivate) that show students the piece of software in action.

The context of why there is a need to convert from an existing instructor-led course to an online one is unclear, nor is the content and audience. It is very difficult to give a general advise on what is the best approach. However, in a training situation, we are not dealing with people who are 'blank slates". They are not here to "absorb information". "Using printed material and short audio-visual tutorials" is based on an information delivery model which seldom produces lasting changes.

This is a golden opportunity to rethink the kind of training which will produce lasting changes. The key to success in training is to utilise the existing expertise of the "learners" and generate an environment in which the participants can share, learn from each other and the new material to be discovered as they collaboratively work on tasks similar to the target situation when the training is completed. If someone can supply a concert example, I may be able to illustrate what I mean.

2 comments:

Zenith said...

While "brick and mortar" institutions will never be eliminated, it's easy to see why a growing number of people are attending class in the cyber world. They may be reasons of accessibility, flexibility or quality, all compelling and contributing to the attractiveness of this mode of learning - Online Education

Unknown said...

I agree with tanaris, Online class are now really efficient and offer great opportunities. University of Phoenix for example offers great alternative of online and on campus class. To help everyone, whatever their flexibility is to earn a degree. Check it out this is the future of education.

http://www.univphoenix.com/campus/