At Virtual College, we typically follow the widely used ADDIE design model and methodology when designing and developing e-learning. ADDIE stands for: analysis, design, development, implementation and evaluation. Each of these terms represents a specific phase in the development process.
In the analysis phase, we work very closely with our customer and/or subject matter expert (SME) to establish the instructional goal, to understand the audience and to specify the learning objectives. Let’s have a closer look at each of these areas:
In the design phase, we collect and/or research the content, agree the learning strategy with the customer, list the graphic requirements, start thinking about the assessments that we are going to use and create the storyboard.
We use the knowledge that we gained during the analysis phase to guide us. For example, if the instructional goal is to teach software skills, we might decide to use videos to demonstrate the skills or simulations to let the learner practice these skills in a safe environment. Alternatively, if we want to raise awareness or change behaviour, we might make authentic scenarios a central part of the e-learning.
In the development phase, we create or purchase assets (graphics, videos etc.), build the module and write the assessments. Then we check everything carefully. Our standards team proofreads the module and checks its functionality. The customer and/or SME checks that the content is complete and correct and that the module meets their expectation. The quality team then tests it on different devices and in different browsers. We correct errors and make all required changes.
During the implementation phase, we upload the module to the Learning Management System (LMS).
Evaluation starts during the design phase and continues throughout the rest of the development process. Subject matter experts and customers review the module and provide feedback that we will then use to improve the module further. Learners have the opportunity to provide feedback on completion of their learning. Their feedback is considered when updating a module and is also valuable for all future developments.
TOP