Show Me, Guide Me, Test Me...

Every learner has the same goal…to get the most out of Training...the most "Bang for your Buck!" I not only want learners and users of my ELearning modules to read the text on the screen and pass the assessments, but I also want them to try it on their own in a simulated environment. This is why we at Graphik Connexions use the Show Me, Guide Me, Test Me method in our ELearning modules. The Show Me section shows the user how to complete a task; the Guide Me section guides the user through the task with hints and step by step instructions; and the Test Me section has the user complete the task with no hints or textual instructions.

Keep in mind this type of structure can be completed for technology training and soft skills training respectively. Soft skills training usually uses Role Playing exercises in the Show Me, Guide Me, Test Me sections. These include real life scenarios, such as sales rep to sales prospects or a customer service rep to a customer. Check out some of our new Flash demo samples at www.graphikconnexions.com/portfolio.htm.

Additional assessments can be added at the end of the module as well, such as Multiple Choice, True/False, Matching, Drag and Drop and more. Which leads us into our next topic of measuring learning. We can measure our learning with assessments only, interactive activities, demos only or ‘basic question’ testing. One of the newest Flash applications out there for this purpose is Raptivity. You can check out the link at www.Raptivity.com and click the Interactivity Samples button. This application not only offers the basic interactivity but even more advanced options such as games, mazes, puzzles, diagrams, and more.

Be sure whoever you hire to complete your ELearning development, you receive a wide selection of interaction and assessments. It will not only keep learners more engaged, but also allow you to record how well the learner is retaining the ELearning content. Each interaction and assessment can be scored and graded on a set percentage or Pass/Fail scale.

In our next follow up article we will discuss ELearning module Certification. We will define the options for Certification, the pros and cons, and how to set it up in your Training. Until then...