Frequently Asked Questions
What is instructional design?
Instructional design is simply the process of creating materials for an audience to learn. When selecting an instructional designer, you need someone who understands the science behind meaningful instructional and effective evaluation. An instructional design expert takes hard-to-understand concepts and turns them into engaging and effective learning experiences for any audience. They do this through their knowledge of learning theories, experience designing curriculum, and information gained by listening to your needs to understand what would work best for your audience and environment.
What models are used for online learning and training?
There are three types of learning models: asynchronous, synchronous, and blended.
Asynchronous describes learning that takes place at different times with no live interaction with the instructor or participants. The benefit of asynchronous learning is that learners can engage with the content on their own schedule and at their own pace.
Synchronous learning describes instruction and learning occurring simultaneously, in the same physical location or the same online environment. The benefit of synchronous learning is that participants can interact with one another, an instructor can provide instant feedback, and the instruction has a schedule.
Blended learning describes in-person, instructor-led content combined with online learning, where the learner has control of the time and pace. The benefit of blended learning is that engagement and timing can be customized to unique needs of the organization.
Contact us to learn what approach would work best for your institution.
How will I know if the learning or training is successful?
Our goal is to ensure that all learning experiences are successful for the client and the learner. We establish success metrics before creating your learning product and then monitor the product once released to learners. Success metrics come in different forms, from Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), such as having 90% of learners complete the online course, to customized surveys throughout the course, to a specific score on end-of-course exams. We work with you to determine how you define success.
How do you make learning engaging?
We work hard to find the appropriate learning theory and suitable modalities to connect with the learner. We believe that real-world learning and interactivity are key — lessons are far more impactful when learners can relate and apply a concept to their daily lives. Therefore, we'll do whatever we can to bring real-world examples to make learning come to life.
How long does it take to create a learning product?
Our timelines of course depend on the nature of the project as well as your needs. We do not take a ‘one size fits all’ approach to design; that’s why we always start with a consultation to assess the scope of the work. We ask questions such as your desired learning goal, who the target audience is, and your budget. Using this information, we will create a detailed project plan with a timeline that explains the process in detail, for a stress-free experience.
Are you able to work with an existing team?
Yes, of course! As a small business, we pride ourselves in our ability to be collaborative and to work in sync with your team to design the right materials that fit for you.
Can you take existing content and turn it into a learning experience?
That is precisely our specialty. While advancements in technology have improved society in many ways, they are also responsible for significantly shorter attention spans. Rote memorization from lengthy textbooks or printouts is no longer the most effective way of learning.
We frequently work with companies by taking their old texts and dated course materials and bringing them to life for the 21st century. We work together to find new ways to interpret the material, and will transform it into a digital workspace using audiovisual components, interactive quizzes, games, and other challenges that will help learners engage with that material in a way that is best suited to them.