e- Learning Strategy and Role of Instructional Designers

 e-Learning Strategies and Role of Instructional Designers.

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There is an increasing necessity to follow Instruction Design principles and theories while implementing technology enabled / e- learning courses in organizations. Unfortunately, most organizations buy e- learning packages without understanding the intricacies of human learning and thereby there are two consequences seen. Firstly, the uptake of courses vary from 5-7%, at best. Secondly, due to cognitive overload (1 hour’s courses taking upto 8 hours for completion) participants postpone/decline their learning activities. Further, a few other feedback received from participants include lack of dedicated time at the workplace, too many interruptions at work and lack of incentivization for time-bound completion of e- learning.

Therefore, learning’s from the world of Instructional Design may help make e- learning courses more effective.

•  Sensitization to Learner’s learning preferences, styles and Learner demographics.

Firstly, It is important to understand how human mind gathers information so that we can design e- learning course for addressing developmental needs accordingly. Any information that is context specific, full of examples, activities, assessments that are based on real life experiences and interactive scenarios, helps engage the learner and makes him/her responsible for his/her own learning.  Research indicate that multiple exposure to the same concept in different contexts with that added variety and requisite complexity helps learner draw their own conclusions and own interpretations. From an Adult Learning theory perspective e- learning courses /content needs to imbibe all of the above for effective Learning.

Further, as the Learners are drawn from a multi-generational workforce profile, assuming that all target segments will respond equally enthusiastically to the technology inroads in learning may be utopian. Unlike our understanding that the Gen Z will have highest usage of e- learning courses, it was found in a recent study, that senior employees are more adept overall and have higher usage of e- learning courses. Therefore it is increasing being debated that e- learning is not a function of age, level or experience, but is a matter one’s own learning styles and preferences.

•           Establishing interconnectedness in Learning disciplines and Domains

Human mind compares any information received with the immediate previous experiences that one has had. Research evidences indicate that knowledge cannot be isolated from what Learners already know. Instructional design theories state that one has to take into account Learners previous knowledge on the subject and try to find ways to connect the new piece of information presented to learner’s current frame of reference

•     Promoting Retention, Assimilation and Recall by the Learners.

                             

Instructional designers claim that learning must provide opportunity for absorption of information as per personal needs of the learner, in order to promote retention, assimilation and recall. Generally, it has been observed that as per current practices in learning the focus is primarily on transmission of learning rather than construction of knowledge. In a Learning and innovating organization, continuous learning models, focus both on transmission and construction of knowledge, with greater focus on the latter.

A few recommendations based on all available Learning theories for implementing e- learning strategies would be :

1.  Creating e- learning content based on organizational context, drive/need for learning, culture, learner demographics etc.

2.   Ensuring a balanced e- learning package with variety of learning tools and options with interactive scenarios based on participants current level and frame of reference.

3.   Giving chance and choice to learners to make their own interpretations and conclusions from the e- learning courses provided and not just focus purely on course completion.