ExpertiseCourseware design methodology

3Dsolve has developed and refined a highly rigorous methodology for the design of highly interactive courseware, emphasizing courseware based on or including high-quality simulation-based content. This methodology enables us to rapidly create courseware designs that will meet learning requirements while being able to confidently predict costs for our customers.

Analyze
What is the need for this e-learning product? Through a comprehensive set of interviews, a profile of the target audience is created and the features and benefits of the content redesign are identified. The needs analysis establishes the objectives, requirements and benefits for the project that is underway.

Design
An instructional design document is created for the e-learning project. It is analogous to an architect creating initial blueprints for a building. It provides the framework for the course outline with course title, modules, lessons and objectives. This framework also includes an initial storyboard for one lesson to ensure our design approach is in keeping with client objectives. Once our client approves the blueprint, we move into the course development stage.

Develop
The develop stage features the integration of artwork and instructional design. This is where the magic happens. Lessons are created from the design storyboards culminating in an Alpha version of the product.

Integrate
The integration stage features the creation of the beta version of the product. The beta version of the product includes integration of content such as video, audio, Flash, animation, and 3D simulations. The beta test phase includes end user testing and feedback. This feedback is incorporated into the final gold master candidate. The courseware will be delivered on the desired platform, which can include 3Dsolve's multi-user 3D4M, stand-alone CD-ROM for CBT, or other popular Web-based learning management platforms.

Evaluate
Upon the client's request, 3Dsolve can gather feedback from end users on the product. This can include:
Level 1: Participants' reaction to the learning product.
Level 2: Measurement of learning through assessments.
Level 3: Assessment of student's performance on the job or performance on a certification test.