Converting to a Distance Learning Format

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Are you considering updating a face-to-face training session to something new, possibly converting it to a distance learning format? These Best Practices will help guide you with your transition. 

You have already taken the first step, by identifying the format. This is an important piece, choosing between asynchronous, synchronous and hybrid can make all the difference in what you do from here on out for this conversion.

Target Audience 

Choosing/Knowing a target audience  is a very important step, "the learners in the class must be considered in order to ensure success and doing so “…yields a more productive learning environment.” (Simonson, Smaldino, Albright, & Zvacek, 2012, p. 154). Learn about your learners, what are they looking to get out of the class, what is their level of understanding, where are they technology wise. Answer questions about the learner to get a better understanding of where they are coming from and how they will access and use the information.

Instructional Design Models

Next, you should research your options for Instructional Design Models, there are several out there. While ADDIE is most commonly known and used it is not your only option, knowing more about models like Dick and Carey Model, which "addresses instruction as an entire system, focusing on the interrelationship between context, content, learning and instruction." (Instructional Design Central) You can also explore Kemp's Instructional Design Model "is particularly useful for developing instructional programs that blend technology, pedagogy and content to deliver effective, inclusive(reliable) and efficient learning. (Instructional Design Central) These are just a few options available to help you.

Technology

Technology, will you use a Learning Management System (LMS), how will you deliver the materials to the learner. Choosing a LMS is important if this is the route you choose you will want to research the options. Choosing your technology will help you choose your interactivity,which is the next step.

Interactivity

Interactivity, how will you interact with the learners, what are your options here, explore the concepts and options that are available. Will you use Discussions, will you use Wiki's, Blog or something new and innovative? The interaction needs to occur on many levels, Learner to Content , Learner to Instructor and Learner to Learner. (Pappas 2012)

Evaluation

Evaluation, how will you evaluate the learner, what they learned and how much they retained. “Evaluation of programs is used to identify strengths and weaknesses as well as the benefits and drawbacks of teaching and learning online”, (Simonson, Smaldino, Albright, & Zvacek, 2012, p. 348). 
  

References

Design, I. (2012). Instructional Design Central | Instructional Designer Resources, Information, and Professional Networking Services. Retrieved December 11, 2015, from http://www.instructionaldesigncentral.com/

Pappas, C. (2012, August 28). ELearning Industry, TOP 5 tips to Convert your Traditional Course into an eLearning format. Retrieved December 11 2015, from http://elearningindustry.com/

Simonson, M., Smaldino, S., Albright, M., & Zvacek, S. (2012). Teaching and learning at a distance: Foundations of distance education (5th ed.). Boston, MA: Pearson.

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