In order to ensure a successful course that learners easily understand, you must make clear connections throughout the content and include clear goals, learning objectives, and instruction.

Here are 3 important ways to do this:

1. Identify for the learner the goal that the instruction supports. This connection provides the learner with the larger purpose of the course.

Example: include a welcome message or a short story to identify how: 

  • The instruction supports the bigger picture (i.e., corporate, organizational goals)
  • Changed behavior due to course instruction contributes to meeting those goals.

2. Define learning objectives that describe the performance, conditions and criteria for acceptable performance. Successful learning objectives have the following characteristics:

a) they relate to outcomes rather than process.

b) they clearly define expectations for taking the course.

c) they can be measured and ARE measured.

3. Engage the learner by using instructional methods that:

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    • Deliver the content in a way that allows the learner to really absorb the instruction. Include lots of examples that the learner can apply to his or her own unique work environment.
    • Connect the learning to how it is applied in the learner’s work. Example: provide connection activities such as scenarios, vignettes and review questions to help the learners see how the content is relevant and meaningful and memorable.

How have you made the CONNECTION for your learners? I want to hear! Share with me your ideas and suggestions by responding to this blog.

Thanks!

Michelle