These challenges can be both exciting and overwhelming (read frustrating), but in the end all I want is for the e-learning opportunities I design to be effective for learning for adult customers, and at the same time, not be something they dread doing. So, the last couple of months I began a journey to learn all I could about building e-learning opportunities that are engaging and effective, so that I don't fall into the bullet-points-and-multiple-choice-question (page turner) trap that I've experienced as a learner in e-learning. Technology has advanced dramatically over the last few years, and there is so much more to offer.
Come and explore with me how to pump up e-learning using games, avatars, and scenarios. eLearning doesn't have to be a drag, it can be a GAS!!
Jumping Jack Flash, It's a Gas, Gas, Gas!!
I believe in continuous learning over a lifetime and welcome your suggestions and comments.
I believe in continuous learning over a lifetime and welcome your suggestions and comments.
I look forward to learning more from your research on using avatars and games. We have just started using both tools and are struggling with when is a good time to use them and when it may be too juvenile for higher education. Any words of wisdom would be appreciated.
ReplyDeleteGood luck,
Jackie V.
I'll share a little, sure!
ReplyDeleteWith games, be sure they support the student in meeting the learning objectives. It is okay if they appear educational. They are, afterall. Studies show that students using video games for learning in higher education perform better on post tests than those who attended the standard class. Reference: Blunt, R. (2008). Does game-based learning work? Results from three recent studies. Retrieved from http.//patrickdunn.squarespace.com/storage/blunt_game_studies.pdf. (2010, October 31).
As for avatars, you do not want them to be a distraction, but they can be useful as guides, coaches, on-demand help, or you can allow the students to create their own avatar to walk through the course virtually. The latter option proves especially useful if you are teaching a skill, versus knowledge.
I'm sure I'll talk more about this as the blog continues. If you have specifics you would like to discuss, let me know.
I can't wait to hear more. This can be a big issue with e-learning, especially in corporate America. I would suggest following http://twitter.com/JaneBozarth/status/29515275622 she's done some great stuff on online/elearning. I also follow a great twitter discussion group called #lrnchat
ReplyDeleteI love Jane's work. In fact, see my next blog entry, "Breathe Easy."
ReplyDeleteThanks for the Twitter lead!