Author: webadmin

webadmin April 17, 2023 No Comments

The Role of Gamification in Corporate Training in the USA

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Gamification has become a popular buzzword in the corporate training world in the USA, as more and more organizations are adopting this approach to improve their employees’ engagement, motivation, and learning outcomes. This article will discuss the role of gamification in corporate training, its benefits, and how it can be used effectively to enhance the learning experience. Why use gamification? Motivation  One of the significant advantages of gamification in corporate training is that it keeps the learner’s motivation levels high through the use of game mechanics such as points, badges, leaderboards, and challenges. Gamification also contributes to learner motivation by providing learners with immediate feedback on their progress. By using tools such as leaderboards and progress bars, learners can see how they are performing in real-time and adjust their learning strategies accordingly. This can help them stay on track and make more effective use of their time. Encourages collaboration and communication Gamification in corporate learning programs can be an effective way to encourage collaboration and communication among employees. By incorporating gamification elements such as team challenges, leaderboards, and rewards, employees are incentivized to work together, communicate effectively, and share knowledge to achieve common goals. Here are some ways in which gamification can encourage collaboration and communication among employees: Team challenges: Gamification programs can include team challenges that require employees to work together to solve problems or complete tasks. By working together towards a common goal, employees are encouraged to communicate and collaborate with one another, sharing their knowledge and expertise to achieve the desired outcome. Social interactions: Gamification programs can include social elements, such as chat features or forums, that encourage employees to communicate with one another. By providing a platform for social interactions, employees are encouraged to share their knowledge and expertise, ask questions, and collaborate with one another to achieve their learning objectives. Collaborative learning activities: Gamification programs can include collaborative learning activities, such as group projects or peer-to-peer reviews. These activities encourage employees to work together, share knowledge, and provide feedback to one another, promoting collaboration and communication. Rewards: Gamification programs can include rewards for achieving specific milestones or completing certain challenges. By providing rewards that are shared among a team, employees are encouraged to work together and collaborate to achieve their goals, rather than working in isolation. By incorporating gamification elements that incentivize teamwork, social interactions, and knowledge sharing, employees are more likely to collaborate effectively, communicate openly, and learn from one another. This can lead to improved overall performance and productivity for the organization. Long-term benefits from gamification data    In the long term, the data generated by gamification programs can provide valuable insights into the learning needs of individual learners. The results from a gamified learning program can be analyzed to identify patterns and trends in learners’ performance, behavior, and preferences, which can be used to design personalized learning experiences that meet their unique needs. Some ways in which the results from a gamified learning program can be analyzed for insights into the learning needs of individual learners are explained below.  Learning & performance analytics: Gamification programs can track learners’ progress and performance in real time, providing valuable data on how well they are doing. The results from quizzes, tests, or simulations can be analyzed to identify areas where learners are struggling and areas where they are excelling. This information can be used to design personalized learning experiences that address learners’ weaknesses while building on their strengths. Engagement analytics: Gamification programs can track learners’ engagement levels, such as how frequently they log in, how long they spend on each activity, and how often they complete challenges. This information can be used to identify learners who are disengaged or struggling and provide them with additional support or incentives to keep them motivated. Social analytics: Gamification programs can track learners’ interactions with their peers, such as the number of times they collaborate on group activities or share information. This information can be used to identify learners who are struggling to work effectively in teams and provide them with additional support or training. Does gamification ensure learning effectiveness? Gamification has been found to be an effective tool for enhancing the learning process and improving learning outcomes. When done correctly, gamification can increase student motivation and engagement, improve knowledge retention, and encourage learners to take an active role in their own learning. However, it is important to note that gamification does not, by itself, ensure learning effectiveness. Learning effectiveness depends on how well the gamified learning program is designed and implemented. To ensure the effectiveness of gamification in corporate training, it is essential to design the games and activities with a clear performance objective in mind. The games should align with the organization’s overall training goals and be relevant to the employees’ job responsibilities. Know more: How To Use Gamification In Your Corporate Microlearning? How Game-Based Learning Solutions Raise Productivity and Drive Business Growth? In conclusion, gamification is a powerful tool that can enhance the effectiveness of corporate training in the USA. By creating an interactive and engaging learning environment, gamification can improve retention rates, increase motivation, and foster a sense of community among employees. As organizations continue to invest in employee training and development, gamification will undoubtedly play a more significant role in the future of corporate training. Thinking of incorporating gamification in your workforce learning & development programs? Let’s help you chalk out a strategy. Contact marketing@hurix.com for further details[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

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webadmin April 17, 2023 No Comments

How Organizations Can Measure the Impact of their Online Learning Programs

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]In recent years, online learning programs have become increasingly popular among organizations looking to provide their employees with access to flexible, convenient, and cost-effective training. However, one of the challenges faced by organizations is measuring the impact of these programs on employee learning and overall business performance. In this article, we will explore the different ways organizations can measure the impact of their online learning programs. Define the Learning and Performance Objectives The first step in measuring the impact of an online learning program is to clearly define the learning & performance objectives. These objectives should be aligned with the organization’s overall business goals and should specify the knowledge, skills, and behaviors that employees are expected to exhibit on the job. In the context of workplace learning, defining the performance objectives in terms of what the learners should be able to do at the end of the training is critical.  Track Learner Progress A learner’s progression in terms of participation, completion rates, and the time taken to complete the program can provide a measure of the programme’s impact. Typically, a Learning Management System (LMS) can track and provides information about the learner’s engagement and progress in a learning program. This information can help identify which employees may need additional support or who may be struggling with certain areas of the program. Use Assessments Assessments are an effective way to measure the impact of online learning programs. Organizations can use pre and post-program assessments to measure the knowledge and skills employees have gained from the program. This can be done through quizzes, tests or simulations. Assessments can also help identify areas where additional training may be required. Use Performance Metrics Performance metrics can help measure the impact of online learning programs on overall business performance. Organizations can use metrics such as sales performance, customer satisfaction or employee productivity to measure the impact of the program on overall business performance. This can be done by comparing pre and post-program data or by comparing data from employees who completed the program with those who did not. Use ROI Analysis Organizations can also use Return on Investment (ROI) analysis to measure the impact of online learning programs. ROI analysis involves comparing the cost of the program to the benefits achieved. This can be done by calculating the financial benefits of the program, such as increased sales or decreased turnover, and comparing it to the cost of the program. Use Surveys and Other Qualitative Data In addition to quantitative data, organizations can also use qualitative data to measure the impact of online learning programs.  Surveys are an effective way to gather feedback from employees on the effectiveness of online learning programs. Surveys can be used to gather information on the relevance, effectiveness, and overall satisfaction of the program. Surveys can also be used to gather feedback on how to improve the program in the future. Other qualitative data such as employee perceptions of the program, how it has impacted their job performance, or how it has helped them achieve their personal and professional goals are also ways of measuring training effectiveness. Conclusion Measuring the impact of online learning programs is essential for organizations looking to ensure that their programs are effective and aligned with their overall business goals. By identifying learning objectives, using assessments, tracking learner progress, using surveys, using performance metrics, using ROI analysis, and using qualitative data, organizations can gain insights into the effectiveness of their programs and make data-driven decisions to improve them. Ultimately, the success of online learning programs is dependent on the ability of organizations to measure their impact and continually improve them over time.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

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webadmin April 13, 2023 No Comments

Promoting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the Learning Programs You Design

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]In recent years, there has been a growing focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in various aspects of society, including workplaces, educational institutions, and public policy. The events of 2020, including the Black Lives Matter protests and the COVID-19 pandemic, have shone a light on the systemic inequalities that exist in society. As a result, many organizations and individuals are now prioritizing DEI initiatives to create more equitable and inclusive communities and workplaces. The increased focus on DEI reflects a growing recognition that diversity, equity, and inclusion are essential for building a more just and sustainable society. Table of contents: DEI in the context of workplace learning & development Why promote DEI in the learning programs you design for employees? Incorporating DEI into workplace learning programs DEI questions to ask when designing your next workplace learning program DEI in the Context of Workplace Learning & Development In the context of workplace learning and development, attention to DEI can help create a more equitable and inclusive work environment, which can in turn increase employee engagement, retention, and productivity. When organizations prioritize DEI in their learning and development programs, they can help ensure that all employees have access to the same learning opportunities and resources, regardless of their background or identity.  In addition, DEI-focused learning and development programs can help raise awareness of unconscious biases and stereotypes that may be hindering diversity and inclusion efforts in the workplace. This can include training on topics such as cultural competency, anti-racism, and LGBTQ+ inclusion. Why promote DEI in the learning programs you design for employees? Promoting DEI in learning programs designed for employees is important for several reasons. First and foremost, it helps create a more equitable and inclusive workplace culture where all employees feel valued, respected, and supported. This can have a positive impact on employee morale, engagement, and retention. In addition, promoting DEI in learning programs can help address systemic barriers to workplace performance as well as career advancement that may disproportionately affect certain groups of employees. Promoting DEI in learning programs can also help raise awareness of unconscious biases and stereotypes that may exist in the workplace.   By prioritizing DEI in their learning programs, organizations can build stronger, more collaborative teams, improve business outcomes, and create a workplace where everyone can thrive. Incorporating DEI into workplace learning programs  Incorporating DEI elements in any learning program is an ongoing process that requires consistent effort and commitment. Incorporating elements of DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) in any learning program is an important step toward creating a more inclusive workplace culture where employees feel valued, respected, and empowered to contribute to their fullest potential. Listed below are some ways you of incorporating DEI into workplace learning programs. Highlight cultural differences: Incorporate learning materials that help employees understand the cultural differences of different groups. This can include training on cultural differences in communication, values, and work styles. Address unconscious biases: Incorporate content that helps employees identify and overcome unconscious biases. This can include training on stereotype threat, microaggressions, and ways to counteract implicit biases. Use diverse examples and case studies: When developing learning materials, make sure to include examples and case studies that represent diverse perspectives and experiences. This will help learners to broaden their understanding of different perspectives and develop empathy towards people from different backgrounds. Encourage open discussion: Create an environment where employees feel comfortable discussing sensitive topics related to diversity and inclusion. Encourage employees to share their experiences and perspectives, and provide opportunities for open discussion. Incorporate DEI training: Incorporate DEI training as part of your overall learning and development program. This can include sessions on unconscious bias, inclusive language, and cultural competence. DEI questions to ask when designing your next workplace learning program Here is a checklist of questions to consider when incorporating DEI into an online learning program: Does the learning program include diverse perspectives and experiences? Are the examples and case studies used in the program diverse and inclusive? Does the program address unconscious biases and stereotypes? Does the program promote the use of inclusive language? Does the program address cultural differences in communication and work styles? Does the program encourage open discussion about diversity and inclusion? Are there opportunities for employees to share their experiences and perspectives in the program? Does the program provide resources and tools to support diversity and inclusion? Are there assessments or feedback mechanisms to ensure the program is effective in promoting DEI? If you need to evaluate your existing programs from the DEI perspective or design fresh programs with a DEI incorporated, reach out to Hurix today. Contact marketing@hurix.com for further details.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

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webadmin April 13, 2023 No Comments

Designing Personalized Learning Pathways for your Workforce

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Personalized learning pathways are becoming increasingly popular in workplace learning and development, as organizations recognize the importance of providing targeted and relevant training to their employees. With the help of modern technologies such as learning management systems and artificial intelligence, it is now possible to create highly personalized learning experiences that can meet the needs of individual learners at scale. What are personalized learning pathways? Personalized learning pathways are customized learning journeys that are designed to meet the individual needs, preferences, and learning styles of each learner. Rather than providing a one-size-fits-all approach to learning, personalized learning pathways allow learners to progress through a series of learning activities that are tailored to their specific needs and goals. Personalized learning pathways typically involve a combination of different learning modalities, such as e-learning courses, webinars, workshops, coaching sessions, and on-the-job training. These activities are sequenced in a logical and coherent manner, with each stage building on the previous one and leading to the achievement of specific learning outcomes. How do personalized learning pathways help individuals? The main advantage of personalized learning pathways is that they enable learners to take ownership of their learning and development. By allowing learners to choose the content and activities that are most relevant and interesting to them, personalized learning pathways can increase engagement, motivation, and retention of learning. They can also help learners to progress through a series of learning stages or modules that build on one another. Thoughtfully designed learning pathways can help to close skill gaps and address individual learning needs, leading to improved performance and productivity. To illustrate this concept, let’s consider the example of two employees at a packaged foods producer. The first employee has recently joined the sales team and is responsible for selling the company’s products to retailers and distributors. The second employee has been with the organization for 10 years and is a territory manager responsible for overseeing sales in a specific geographic area. For the new sales employee, their learning pathway might begin with an onboarding program that provides an overview of the company’s products, sales processes, and customer base. They might then progress to more in-depth training on sales techniques, product knowledge, and customer relationship management. This learning pathway could include a combination of e-learning courses, webinars, coaching sessions with a sales manager, and on-the-job training. For the more experienced territory manager, their learning pathway might focus on developing leadership skills and enhancing their strategic thinking abilities. This could include attending leadership training programs, engaging in mentorship or coaching sessions, and participating in industry conferences and events to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and developments in the market. Their learning pathway might also include opportunities to mentor and train new sales employees, allowing them to share their expertise and develop their coaching and mentoring skills. By designing learning pathways tailored to the needs of individual employees, organizations can ensure that their workforce has the knowledge, skills, and competencies they need to succeed in their roles and drive business performance. Learning pathways can help to create a culture of continuous learning and development, enabling employees to acquire new skills and knowledge throughout their careers and support their organization’s growth and success. Laying the foundation for personalized learning pathways Personalized learning pathways require some groundwork at the organizational level. Without this groundwork, the foundation for personalized learning pathways will be weak and the benefits of this approach will not be realized. If you are planning to design and implement personalized learning pathways in your organization, here are some of the key steps to consider: Define the learner groups: The granularity at which you create the learner groups will determine the depth and extent  personalized learning pathways. For example, if all your learning programs cater to employees at all levels, personalized learning pathways are not possible. On the other hand, if you target audience belongs to a specific functional area with a specific level of expertise, it is possible to create personalized learning specific to their needs. Conduct Learning Needs Assessment: For the defined learner groups, conduct a needs assessment to understand their learning needs and to identify areas where training and development are needed. This assessment should identify knowledge gaps, skill deficiencies, and competency requirements and should be used to inform the development of personalized learning pathways. Define Learning Objectives: Once the training needs assessment for each learner groups is completed, organizations should define clear learning objectives for each learner group. These objectives should be aligned with the employee’s role, the organization’s goals, and the specific skills and knowledge required to perform their job effectively. Curate Existing Learning Material: Deep dive into the existing learning material available to the employees to determine which material can be used as-is, which material needs to be updated, and which material needs to be designed from scratch. Determine the Learning Modalities: For the content that needs to be updated or designed from scratch, determine the best learning modalities for the targetted learner groups. This could include classroom-based training, e-learning, on-the-job training, coaching, mentoring, or a combination of these modalities. It’s important to consider the learner group’s preferences, work atmosphere, context, and availability when determining the best approach. Create a Personalized Learning Plan: With the training needs assessment, learning objectives, and learning modalities in mind, you can then create a personalized learning plan for each learner group. This plan should be tailored to the group’s specific learning needs, taking into account their role, skill level, and career goals. Track and Evaluate Progress: Finally, remember to track and evaluate the progress of each learner group as they work through their personalized learning plan. This will help to identify areas where additional support or training may be needed and ensure that the learning pathways are effective in meeting the needs of the learner group. How personalized can personal learning journeys be? With advancements in technology, data analytics, and artificial intelligence, it is now possible to collect and analyze large amounts of data about learners, including

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webadmin April 12, 2023 No Comments

When to Use Virtual Reality in Workplace Learning Programs?

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]In recent years, Virtual reality (VR) has emerged as a powerful tool for workplace learning programs. Its immersive and interactive nature opens up the possibility of unique, hands-on learning experiences in virtual environments. When such learning experiences are designed well, the transfer of training to real environments becomes smooth and seamless. However, VR is not a one-size-fits-all solution, and organizations must carefully consider when and how to use VR in their workplace learning programs. In this article, we will discuss five different conditions under which VR-based learning solutions are a good fit. 5 Conditions to Use Virtual Reality in Workplace Learning Programs? When VR will enable better learning outcomes    When VR will drive and not deter learner engagement    When real training environments are hazardous When real training environments are expensive When scalability and flexibility are not critical Condition #1: When VR will enable better learning outcomes    The ultimate goal of any workplace learning program is to improve employee performance and productivity. Organizations should consider whether VR is the most effective tool to achieve the desired learning outcomes. For instance, VR can be an effective tool for skills development, such as practicing soft skills or technical skills in a simulated environment. However, VR may not be the most effective tool for knowledge acquisition or information retention, as it may lack the interactivity and feedback of traditional classroom learning or e-learning solutions. Thus, organizations should carefully evaluate the learning outcomes they want to achieve and assess whether VR is the most appropriate tool to achieve those outcomes. Condition #2: When VR will drive and not deter learner engagement    One of the key advantages of VR is its ability to engage learners in an immersive and interactive learning experience. VR can provide a more engaging and motivating learning experience, leading to better learning outcomes and knowledge retention. However, organizations should also consider the learners’ preferences and comfort level with VR headsets. Some learners may feel uncomfortable or disoriented in a VR environment, which can affect their learning experience. Thus, organizations should provide adequate training and support to help learners feel comfortable and confident in using VR technology. Condition #3: When real training environments are hazardous One of the key benefits of VR is its ability to simulate complex and high-risk scenarios that may be difficult or impossible to replicate in real life. For instance, VR can be used to train employees to carry out various tasks at chemical plants or construction sites, without exposing them to actual risks. VR can also be used to simulate complex processes, such as operating complex machinery or systems, that may be difficult to learn in traditional classroom settings. Thus, organizations should consider using VR when the task or environment is too complex or hazardous to simulate in real life. Condition #4: When real training environments are expensive VR can be a cost-effective solution for workplace learning programs, in specific contexts and under certain conditions. For instance, VR can provide virtual access to expensive or hard-to-access equipment, machinery, or environments that are extremely expensive to arrange for in reality. VR can also reduce the need for physical training spaces and travel expenses. When evaluating the cost-effectiveness of a VR solution for a training need, organizations should also consider the initial investment required for VR hardware and software, as well as the ongoing maintenance and support costs.  Condition #5: When scalability and flexibility are not critical VR solutions require access to expensive hardware and software and that places some limitations on the scalability of VR learning experiences. Virtual reality (VR) based learning programs are not as scalable and flexible as other forms of digital learning, for reasons explained below. Hardware requirements: VR-based learning programs require specialized hardware such as VR headsets and motion controllers. These hardware requirements can limit the number of users who can access the program, as not all learners may have access to the required equipment.  Design & technical skills required: Designing VR-based learning programs requires a higher level of design and technical expertise and resources. VR experiences involve the creation 3D models and immersive environments. All elements of a VR experience including the visualization, navigation, nature of instruction, learning interactions, feedback and assessment strategies have to be thought through in a different way, unlike the templatised approach of traditional eLearning methods.  Maintenance and updates: VR-based learning programs require ongoing maintenance and updates to ensure that they continue to function properly with the latest hardware and software updates. This can be time-consuming and costly, particularly if the program is used by a large number of learners.  Cost: The cost of creating and maintaining VR-based learning programs can be significantly higher than the cost of creating a simple WBT using Articulate Rise. The cost of the required hardware and software can be prohibitive, particularly for organizations with limited budgets. In conclusion, VR can be a powerful tool for workplace learning programs, but organizations must carefully evaluate when and how to use it to achieve their desired learning outcomes.   Looking for help with deciding whether or not to go for a VR based learning program for your employees’ learning needs? Contact marketing@hurix.com for further details.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

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Videos Improve K-12 Learning-Outcomes
webadmin April 4, 2023 No Comments

How Do Videos Improve K-12 Learning Outcomes?

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Improving K-12 learning outcomes is a major area of research in the education space. The research is centered on finding ways to make new skills, concepts, and information more graspable for students. Videos have the potential to become the perfect companion for teachers. With the help of video clips, educators can impart a deeper understanding of concepts.  You should, however, have a clear understanding of the news clip, documentary, or any other video clip and evaluate its impact on young minds before using it. Apart from that, educators should also be wary of when and how to use video content to improve K-12 learning outcomes.  Also Read: Advantages of using OER in K-12 Education[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”What is the Purpose?” font_container=”tag:h1|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Lato%3A100%2C100italic%2C300%2C300italic%2Cregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic%2C900%2C900italic|font_style:900%20bold%20regular%3A900%3Anormal” css=”.vc_custom_1609423431119{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 10px !important;}”][vc_column_text]Following are the three main reasons for using video content to improve student learning outcomes:  Building background knowledge Enriching a text Solidifying students’ learning Teachers utilize various modalities, such as verbal explanations, drawing, and reading. Adding visual media to the list helps them build sound background knowledge in the students’ minds regarding any topic.  Also Read: Top 5 LMS for K-12 Education “Rather than trying to simplify information, amplifying the curriculum means finding as many ways as possible to make key information comprehensible.” – Pauline Gibbons, Education Researcher Next comes enriching the text. Take an example of students reading a nonfiction or fiction story in textual form. How about contextualizing the story using video clips? The third and final purpose of video content is to solidify K-12 learning outcomes.  For instance, you can leverage instructional, child-friendly how-to videos to reinforce student learning.  There are plenty of free resources such as BrainPop, TeacherTube, and YouTube, accessible via the internet, to do just that!  That said, if you want interactive and engaging videos to enhance student learning outcomes, you can check out HurixDigital’s K-12 Digital Content Library. It has over 2500 videos covering Mathematics and Science, designed especially for K-12 students and mapped to the global curriculum. Also Read: 8 Reasons to Include Interactive Video Learning in Higher Ed Courses[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”How to Pick Videos to Improve K-12 Learning Outcomes?” font_container=”tag:h2|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Lato%3A100%2C100italic%2C300%2C300italic%2Cregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic%2C900%2C900italic|font_style:900%20bold%20regular%3A900%3Anormal” css=”.vc_custom_1609423544541{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 10px !important;}”][vc_column_text]It’s easy. Be selective! While it’s true that videos can work wonders for student engagement, picking a rather uninteresting video will not do the trick. Choose the most dynamic parts of the documentary, news segments, or films that you want your students to watch.  Review your purpose as stated in the previous section.  For instance, if you want to teach youngsters about the dark history of the Holocaust, you could decide to watch Schindler’s List with them.  Now since the movie has violent scenes, you have to be strategic about it but not dismissive. You can decide to show select clips to the kids according to what’s appropriate for their age bracket.  Also Read: K-12 Education Made More Effective Through Robotics And AI[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”Reflect on the Learnings” font_container=”tag:h2|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Lato%3A100%2C100italic%2C300%2C300italic%2Cregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic%2C900%2C900italic|font_style:900%20bold%20regular%3A900%3Anormal” css=”.vc_custom_1609423647634{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 10px !important;}”][vc_column_text]For students to retain the information for extended periods, video learning should be combined with the writing of notes. This method is especially applicable if the video is packed with lots of information. Do not hesitate to pause the video in between, ask a few questions, and encourage them to take notes.  To keep the students attentive and accountable, set a goal or mission beforehand.[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”Turn on Captions” font_container=”tag:h2|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Lato%3A100%2C100italic%2C300%2C300italic%2Cregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic%2C900%2C900italic|font_style:900%20bold%20regular%3A900%3Anormal” css=”.vc_custom_1609423716661{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 10px !important;}”][vc_column_text]It is possible that students may miss an important point while watching the video. Turning the captions on will allow them to read and note it down.  Besides, you can also provide them with transcripts for them to go through everything and see if they’ve missed anything. The digital copies can also serve as notes for reference in the future.[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”What Does Research Imply?” font_container=”tag:h2|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Lato%3A100%2C100italic%2C300%2C300italic%2Cregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic%2C900%2C900italic|font_style:900%20bold%20regular%3A900%3Anormal” css=”.vc_custom_1609423782306{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 10px !important;}”][vc_column_text]A survey conducted in 2014 by Huffpost indicates that videos are indeed impactful in the overall experience, education, and information retention. With the emergence of online learning, videos will continue to gain traction in the upcoming years. According to an estimate provided by the same survey, about 49% of the respondents reported watching 6-20 educational videos every month.  K-12 content developers are thus focused on creating a video-centric, inviting, engaging, and exciting environment just like Hulu and Netflix. [/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”What’s The Science Behind It?” font_container=”tag:h2|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Lato%3A100%2C100italic%2C300%2C300italic%2Cregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic%2C900%2C900italic|font_style:900%20bold%20regular%3A900%3Anormal” css=”.vc_custom_1609424325448{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 10px !important;}”][vc_column_text]Did you know that our brain processes visuals about 60,000 times faster compared to text?  That’s all the more reason why you should integrate educational videos into your curriculum. [/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”Create an Experience” font_container=”tag:h2|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Lato%3A100%2C100italic%2C300%2C300italic%2Cregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic%2C900%2C900italic|font_style:900%20bold%20regular%3A900%3Anormal” css=”.vc_custom_1609424411957{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 10px !important;}”][vc_column_text]What better way of introducing your students to famous people, political figures, and great historians than showing videos?  What if your students could hear how an extinct species or remote wilderness would sound like? How about investigating energy transfer and the laws of motion?  Or visualizing how the universe functions?  It’s feasible with videos that would greatly enhance the students’ K-12 learning outcomes. Also Read: Best Learning Experience Platforms to Consider for Online Education[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”A Boon for the Hearing-Impaired” font_container=”tag:h2|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Lato%3A100%2C100italic%2C300%2C300italic%2Cregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic%2C900%2C900italic|font_style:900%20bold%20regular%3A900%3Anormal” css=”.vc_custom_1609424527057{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 10px !important;}”][vc_column_text]This is an overlooked benefit of using videos for improving K-12 student learning outcomes.  Hearing-impaired students rely on visual cues to study their curriculum. In that sense, videos with captions can offer them a better learning experience by keeping them engaged and energized.  Besides, incorporating technology such as virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) into your videos will make the classrooms more fun and interactive. [/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”Gaps in Assessment Practices” font_container=”tag:h2|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Lato%3A100%2C100italic%2C300%2C300italic%2Cregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic%2C900%2C900italic|font_style:900%20bold%20regular%3A900%3Anormal” css=”.vc_custom_1609424585747{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 10px !important;}”][vc_column_text]We cannot really wrap-up our discussion on the role of

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3D Learning
webadmin April 4, 2023 No Comments

3D Learning – Bringing the Wow Factor into eLearning

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Technology plays a pivotal role in changing the education landscape. People live in a knowledge-based and technology-driven economy.  Therefore, schools, colleges, and universities need to deep-dive into the many possibilities of using technology to enhance teaching and learning.  One such possibility is 3D learning. Even though it’s an area of ongoing research, its implications on eLearning are tremendous.  Simulating a real-world environment improves the ability of students to learn complicated concepts more practically. Also Read: The Role of Simulations in Higher Education Institutions and Colleges[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”Why Does It Matter?” font_container=”tag:h1|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Lato%3A100%2C100italic%2C300%2C300italic%2Cregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic%2C900%2C900italic|font_style:900%20bold%20regular%3A900%3Anormal” css=”.vc_custom_1611812455102{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 10px !important;}”][vc_column_text]Students in today’s world face far more distractions than any other generation before.  With the proliferation of social media platforms, it is getting increasingly difficult for them to channel their undivided focus on their studies.    So, why not drive technology inside of classrooms?  3D learning is an exciting domain of technology that can be leveraged to refine student learning outcomes. [/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”Impact of Technology on Student Learning Outcomes” font_container=”tag:h2|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Lato%3A100%2C100italic%2C300%2C300italic%2Cregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic%2C900%2C900italic|font_style:900%20bold%20regular%3A900%3Anormal” css=”.vc_custom_1611812665205{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 10px !important;}”][vc_column_text]Research suggests that visual content works far better than text when it comes to enhancing student learning. In fact, they have become more appealing in this visually driven world.  In modern terms, this phenomenon is called ‘visual literacy.’  It has a greater impact on student learning outcomes compared to the conventional approach of teaching.  In a study conducted to reinforce construction safety education, researchers created a 3D game system using MilkShape 3D and Autodesk 3Ds Max. Students were given the task of identifying job hazards often encountered in the construction industry. The game served as a safety training environment with features of interactivity, self-learning, and realism. The findings of the study indicate that not only did students cherish the learning process but also displayed an optimistic attitude and motivation. They were able to enhance their learning interests. [/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”Benefits of 3D Learning” font_container=”tag:h2|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Lato%3A100%2C100italic%2C300%2C300italic%2Cregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic%2C900%2C900italic|font_style:900%20bold%20regular%3A900%3Anormal” css=”.vc_custom_1611812874737{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 10px !important;}”][vc_column_text]How many students really like going to school and learning their lessons? Very few, sadly. Most of them just get by one day at a time. 3D learning can boost students’ engagement allowing them to utilize their talent to the fullest.  It will help you grab their attention much more easily. This, in turn, increases their chances of effectively gathering and retaining the information.  Visual experiences are absorbed more easily by students compared to mundane facts. With their enhanced understanding, they ask more complex questions and discover new ideas.  The ‘Wow’ Factor Many schools and universities that do have practical lessons, fail to capture the students’ attention. The wow factor is simply missing, which could keep their eyes glued to what is being taught. It is the teacher’s responsibility to get them excited and curious about lessons. This where 3D learning can assist them.  How about a journey through the solar system? Or perhaps a deeper, immersive view of human anatomy?  For instance, watching where each planet is and how they move is more exciting in a planetarium compared to 2D diagrams in textbooks. The technology makes it possible for students to have that same experience inside the classrooms! Efficacy of 3D Learning Embracing technology can lead to massive improvements in the delivery of education.  Before giving examples of the effectiveness of 3D tech in mathematics and science, let’s understand the concept of three-dimensional learning.   3D Learning – The Concept When you talk about the concept of three-dimensional learning, it comprises of following components: Core disciplinary ideas Cross-cutting Concepts Science & Engineering Practice According to the National Research Council’s (NRC) framework, K-12 content developers deliver high-quality science education based on three-dimensional learning.  The first component is aimed at strengthening the knowledge base of students belonging to engineering and science disciplines.  The second component is directed towards augmenting students’ ability to apply concepts of science and engineering domain to another.  The third component includes practices such as interpreting data, carrying investigations, developing models, asking questions, designing solutions, and communicating information using a computational approach.  Effectiveness in Mathematics With the help of 3D animation, students can comprehend calculus, trigonometry, work and time, and volume a lot better than traditional methods.  Using more advanced tech, students should be able to manipulate the objects of the simulated environment, such as circles, colored squares, and tiles.  This way, students will be able to comprehend mathematical concepts in a better way and change their attitude towards the subject in a positive manner.  Effectiveness in Science Students, for instance, can learn about the properties of gas using 3D tech and apply their knowledge to other science disciplines like engineering, biology, chemistry, pharmacy, and Earth science. [/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”Incorporating 3D Learning in Your Curriculum” font_container=”tag:h3|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Lato%3A100%2C100italic%2C300%2C300italic%2Cregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic%2C900%2C900italic|font_style:900%20bold%20regular%3A900%3Anormal” css=”.vc_custom_1611813094799{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 10px !important;}”][vc_column_text]The first and the most important prerequisite of incorporating this technology is having a well-established IT infrastructure. That includes all your systems, security, mobility, collaboration, and data center that should work together seamlessly.   Besides, you can collaborate with 3D educational game designers and virtual classroom software makers to make that possible. Choose a developer who can understand your requirements to customize the environment.  You can start by bringing the immersive cinema experience into the classrooms and gradually upgrade to augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR). [/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”Conclusion” font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Lato%3A100%2C100italic%2C300%2C300italic%2Cregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic%2C900%2C900italic|font_style:900%20bold%20regular%3A900%3Anormal” css=”.vc_custom_1611813216984{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 10px !important;}”][vc_column_text]3D learning has immense potential in terms of helping students who really struggle to grasp complex concepts.  They can not only understand their subjects better but can also recollect details of what was taught to them in 3D. Moreover, the knowledge retention rate is much lower in 2D learning.  You need a strong IT infrastructure in order to integrate the technology with your curriculum. Ideally, you should collaborate with a K-12 course designer and tech developer to incorporate the technology.  Every student should be able to utilize his or her

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Videos in K-12 Education
webadmin April 3, 2023 No Comments

10 Ways to Use Videos in K-12 Education

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]High-quality education coupled with digital technology has the power to develop human talent and nurture young minds for the opportunities arising on a global scale. While there are a host of digital technologies impacting education, it is the video format that has emerged as the greatest agent of change, especially in K-12 education. Interactive videos facilitate collaboration, cater to different learning styles and abilities, increase engagement with the content, and ultimately improve learning outcomes. The best way to use videos in K-12 education is to ensure that they are interactive in nature, allowing students to be active participants while learning. To maximize the effectiveness of video-based learning, students should be able to read and react, comprehend, analyze and critique, and gain knowledge from videos. Related Read: Top 5 LMS for K-12 Education[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”How to use videos in K-12 education” font_container=”tag:h1|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Lato%3A100%2C100italic%2C300%2C300italic%2Cregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic%2C900%2C900italic|font_style:900%20bold%20regular%3A900%3Anormal” css=”.vc_custom_1615388827611{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 10px !important;}”][vc_column_text]1. Virtual field trips In a geography lesson for instance, take your students for a virtual tour around the world without actually leaving the classroom. A virtual trip also frees you from the bounds of physical space and time. So you can take them to the Himalayas or the Alps,  show the wildebeest migration in Kenya and Tanzania, or trace the route of Christopher Columbus to find the New World. You can also organize virtual field trips to some of the greatest cities of the world, or even provide a complete perspective of the renaissance period in Florence, Italy. No matter what the subject, virtual field trips make the lessons more real and relevant. 2. Preview upcoming concepts Rather than jump into a lesson directly, you can use videos to preview upcoming concepts and give the students some food for thought. Previews are a great way to spark interest and set the ground for the actual lesson. While algebraic formulas may not stimulate excitement in all minds equally, visual content will help build a better connection with the material. Also Read: How Do Videos Improve K-12 Learning Outcomes? 3. Record in-class activities The use of videos in K-12 education can also break the sense of mundane that sets in with regular classes. Recording and sharing in-class activities with the students can help in breaking the monotony while also giving them a sense of their participation during the lesson. In-class recordings are also a great way of engaging with parents and showing them how their wards work and respond in the classroom. 4. Encourage creativity Taking the above point further, students can also be asked to create videos about the country they are studying or enact a scene from a Shakespeare play. They can also post password-protected videos on sites such as Vimeo and share them with their family and friends. 5. Instructional learning Videos in K-12 education can also be used for demonstration, for example, a video of a science experiment. Rather than just reading and listening to the instructions, students can watch how a process works and then try it out themselves. These step-by-step demonstrations eliminate or minimize gaps in communication or understanding, allowing for greater learning. 6. Blended learning Schools and higher education institutions are increasingly leveraging online resources to supplement their classroom sessions. This has given rise to the popular blended learning format which is a mix of traditional and online learning. For instance, simulated videos that imitate and enhance reality are now being used to support learning. To explain how these work, take the case of a biology lesson on the functioning of the heart. A simulated video can show the students how the blood circulates in the four chambers of the heart. Related Read: 7 Steps to Designing Effective Blended Learning Courses Today, almost every student has a smartphone. All they have to do is download an AR app and point it to the text or image in the textbook that is linked to the simulated video. 7. Review class material Apart from blended and instructional learning, videos in K-12 education allow students access to the lessons they have missed. This can be done through in-class recordings. But, it may be that the instructor has to go on leave. In that case, they can create and upload videos and share the URL with the students so they get all the information they need even when the teachers are absent. 8. Vocabulary videos Videos make learning vocabulary terms fun and interesting. Almost all subjects have terms that students ought to know. Teachers can make these videos and upload on the content delivery platform. Alternatively, students can also be asked to make these videos for homework and then share with the rest of the class. Creative activities such as these encourage students’ interest and participation with the subject, ensuring long-term learning and retention. 9. Research projects Instead of just listening to a lesson or reading about a subject, students can be asked to prepare a video-based research project. The students can easily find a wealth of information on any subject on the Internet. Videos in K-12 education can be a good supplement, allowing students to discover their different strengths and see what they are capable of. These videos encourage independent learning and also inculcate skills that will hold students in good stead at a global stage. 10. Introduction videos Videos in K-12 education can add a fun element while also allowing students to get to know each other without the pressure of public speaking. This quick get-to-know-you approach can further be used along the line with students being asked to create biographical videos of the personalities that influence them the most. Also Read: How to Create and Deliver the Best K-12 Learning Solutions[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”In conclusion” font_container=”tag:h2|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Lato%3A100%2C100italic%2C300%2C300italic%2Cregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic%2C900%2C900italic|font_style:900%20bold%20regular%3A900%3Anormal” css=”.vc_custom_1615389003634{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 10px !important;}”][vc_column_text]K-12 education is increasingly leveraging videos to introduce lessons and then further as teaching aids to supplement teaching. Interactive videos can be used to give concrete shape to abstract concepts, especially in subjects students generally find difficult to

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online K-12 textbook solution
webadmin April 3, 2023 No Comments

How to Create Online K-12 Textbook Solutions

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]K-12 is essentially an American expression that refers to education imparted to all classes from Kindergarten to 12th grade and includes primary, middle and high school education. In the era of the Internet, online textbook solutions for K-12 are increasingly finding favor with schools to supplement classroom teaching. This is because online textbook solutions for K-12 are interactive in nature. The highly visual content, which includes audio-visual files, makes learning more interesting and sparks interest in young minds.  Secondly, these online textbooks sometimes have educational content in the form of games, something which generation Z can easily relate to. These games have various levels and incorporate rewards, recognition and leaderboards that motivate the students to interact with the content and learn by doing. Online textbook solutions for K-12 also leverage various types of multimedia to support immersive storytelling which hooks the students’ attention and enables long-term learning. These solutions are also beneficial to the instructors as they can use them as teaching aids to support their lessons and make teaching more effective. Also Read: How to Create and Deliver the Best K-12 Learning Solutions[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”How to create online textbook solutions for K-12?” font_container=”tag:h1|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Lato%3A100%2C100italic%2C300%2C300italic%2Cregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic%2C900%2C900italic|font_style:900%20bold%20regular%3A900%3Anormal” css=”.vc_custom_1615991785745{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 10px !important;}”][vc_column_text]While it is very simple to publish textbooks online, the real challenge lies in creating the content. Primarily, there are two things to keep in mind while creating online textbook solutions for K-12- modern pedagogical practices and the use of digital technology. Let us consider the first aspect, that is, modern pedagogical practices.  The Internet is an extremely crowded space with an ever-widening sea of information clamoring for attention. To be seen, heard and be able to stand out of the crowd, your content has to be appealing, intriguing, and well-packaged to attract and hold attention. In fact, with online media, if you can’t get to the point in the first few seconds, the users will move on to the next topic. With so much content at their disposal, students have a short attention span; meander around the messaging at leisure, and the learners will move on to something else that attracts their attention. So how does this impact online learning?  To attract and hold learner attention, you need to create appealing and highly interactive visual content, neatly packaged in micro-bites or condensed capsules which your learners can identify with, easily consume, assimilate, and retain for the long-term. Apart from microlearning, your online textbook solutions for K-12 should also support mobile learning. Today’s students use their smartphones for everything, from searching for information to playing games to shopping to communicating and learning. With this in mind, your online textbook solutions should be readable on all devices including desktops, laptops, tablets and smartphones. Now coming to the second aspect – the use of digital technology.  The online media is highly visual, incorporating rich use of multimedia such as images, photos, videos, graphics, infographics and PowerPoint to tell a story. Then there are the more advanced features such as AR, VR, simulations and gamification which make learner the main protagonist of the story, enabling them to charter their own paths, and proceed by either trial and error or a well-thought out strategy to meet some predefined goals. In a traditional classroom setting, students of different learning abilities receive the same instruction, resulting in uneven learning with the brilliant students forging ahead and those with relatively low learning abilities lagging behind. Gradually, they get demotivated and the learning gap continues to widen. Also Read: Gamification: 5 Effective Ways to Gamify Learning in Higher Education Online textbook solutions for K-12 can to some extent help to bridge this gap by giving students greater control over their learning while also enabling them to proceed at their own pace and will. It is seen that all students make different mistakes. Well-designed online textbooks personalize learning, allowing students to make their own mistakes and then course correct towards the predefined goals.[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”Based on the above discussion, we can summarize best practices for creating online textbook solutions for K-12 as under:” font_container=”tag:h2|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Lato%3A100%2C100italic%2C300%2C300italic%2Cregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic%2C900%2C900italic|font_style:900%20bold%20regular%3A900%3Anormal” css=”.vc_custom_1615991864404{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 10px !important;}”][vc_column_text] Create an engaging story: Content for online textbooks, unlike print textbooks, is not linear. This itself requires a shift in the thought process from creating a lesson to creating a story with characters, plot, progress of the plot with various branching scenarios and finally course correction towards the final learning goals. Leverage multimedia to tell the story: Once you have the story in place, the next step is to bring it alive using multimedia. With digital media, the students will be able to read the text, listen to the lesson, and also interact with it. Add rewards, recognition and leaderboards to challenge and motivate the learners, immerse them into the story and enable them to forge their own learning paths. Keep content concise: While creating online textbook solutions for K-12, break long lessons into small micro-bites, which students can refer to even while on the move or in the comfort of their own space. They can access this content during their breaks, before the start of the lesson, while waiting for the instructor to enter the class or while commuting to and from the school. Microlearning content also prevents cognitive overload and breaks students’ resistance to new learning. Mobile learning: Your online textbook solutions for K-12 should be device-independent enabling students to access the files on the device of their choice. This will give the students the flexibility to learn anytime and anywhere. Hyperlink your content: With online textbooks, you can leverage the full power of the Internet. Link your content to external or internal resources that allow students to gain access to a plethora of information to either enhance their understanding of the subject or delve deeper for more insights. You can also link your content with an AR app which students can download on their phones. For example, if the lesson is about the human

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assessment strategy
webadmin March 30, 2023 No Comments

How to Devise an Effective Online Learning Assessment Strategy

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Nearly everyone regards assessment as a key component of any learning design strategy. But oftentimes, even for large and complex online courses, there isn’t a well-conceived assessment strategy. A lot of times, assessment merely means writing questions – mostly multiple-choice – at the end of each major module or section of the course. Although this is a necessary aspect of writing assessments, it is usually not sufficient to ensure that learner performance is properly evaluated. Devising an assessment strategy at the outset can not only better support learners but can also improve the course through data-driven iterative revisions. [/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”Below are a few points to remember for devising an effective online learning assessment strategy.” font_container=”tag:h1|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Lato%3A100%2C100italic%2C300%2C300italic%2Cregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic%2C900%2C900italic|font_style:900%20bold%20regular%3A900%3Anormal” css=”.vc_custom_1624457415998{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 10px !important;}”][vc_column_text]1. SME does not equal a good assessment writer  SMEs are often contracted to develop assessments, especially to write questions. Just because someone is a subject matter expert in a given area does not mean that they can develop good assessments. The same is true of instructors, instructional designers, and anyone else who is in the education business.  Assessment design requires a very specific knowledge base and skill set that is not always included in the professional development of professional educators, and even when included, it is not always consistent.  A Ph.D. in assessment isn’t required most of the time, but some training and mentoring can go a long way in preparing SMEs or anyone else to develop good assessments.  2. Constructive alignment through Bloom’s  You really can’t do assessments properly without understanding constructive alignment, as illustrated below. The basic idea here is that learning objectives, learning activities, and assessments all have to support each other. The learners should not be doing things for a course that they are not expected to do and will not be assessed on.  It generally makes the most sense to begin by nailing down the learning objectives as these should drive the instructional content and assessment. Make sure that each assessment item matches at least one learning objective and that all learning objectives have assessment items. Use Bloom’s revised taxonomy to construct learning objectives to ensure all of the instructional content is covered and assessed both in scope and level of difficulty. 3. Tagging, mapping, and blueprinting Constructive alignment can be further optimized by tagging and mapping all learning assets and then creating a blueprint that maps out how these learning assets will (or can, if there’s flexibility) be utilized. For example, each level of Bloom’s revised taxonomy can be a tag. Let’s say the learning objective is “Describe the different types of clouds.” This is at the Bloom’s level of understanding, and so one of the tags for this learning objective could be “Bloom’s = understanding” or something similar. The associated assessment items can then be tagged to this learning objective and its Bloom’s level along with key words such as “clouds, weather, atmosphere” etc.  You can then create a blueprint that shows not only a course outline but also which objectives are covered where and at what Bloom’s level, to which you could work backward from an assessment item to view corresponding instructional content. The blueprint can serve as an inventory of learning assets, including assessments, that will help ensure that everything is covered and in the right way. 4. Formative and summative From a learning theory perspective, it is important to develop both formative and summative assessments. Learners can only process so much new knowledge before taking a quick pause to ensure that they retained what was just covered through a formative assessment. At the end of a larger section, the learners should be able to synthesize across the new knowledge just covered, in a summative assessment.  So, the summative assessments are more comprehensive than the formative assessments. A common poor practice is to merely put all the formative assessments together as the summative assessment. This, however, is not effective. 5. Variety Even though multiple-choice questions are the most feasible means of assessing online learning, by no means does this have to preclude variety, which is essential in keeping learners engaged. Also, answering questions often is not representative of the learning that has taken place. Technology is more and more supportive of other forms of assessments, and this should not be overlooked. But even a pool of questions can be varied.  Limited use of true/false questions is fine. Multiple-choice questions can have just a single correct answer or multiple correct answers. Any of these types of questions can include media, such as a short video or audio file, or even an image. Matching, drag-and-drop, labeling, and hotspot questions enable more variety and promote learner engagement. Of course, you must be sure that whatever software you are using supports these features, especially your LMS. 6. Structure of the assessment This refers to the individual parts and overall structure of an assessment. For questions, the stem, distractors, and rationales (feedback) must follow guidelines and best practices in order to properly assess learning. A major problem in assessment is the extent to which flawed assessments skew learner performance data and detrimentally affect learner outcomes, especially grades.  Assessment items that are confusing, misleading, or just do not make sense, set up learners to perform poorly when they might actually have a strong command of the knowledge. It is essential that assessment developers understand how to create good assessments and avoid creating flawed ones. 7. Link to remediation One of the advantages to online learning that includes assets that are tagged and mapped is that this makes better remediation possible. For example, every individual question can be designed to direct the learner back to associated online course content, specific e-textbook content, or any other online assets. This makes it easier for learners to review content for missed questions than if they had to look up references (such as “textbook p. 271”) or, worse, were left to their own devices to look for the content, which they most likely

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