e-Learning, It Doesn't Have to be Boring

I know, e-Learning modules, boring right? If done correctly, they don’t have to be. In my world, e-Learning modules as a learning environment fit nicely. Just following the standards of designing e-Learning, I will have encapsulated all the important aspects of creating a highly engaging and effective learning module. Add in accessibility, usability, and assessments I will have created a superior learning tool. Based on the timeframe in which I have my clients, sometimes a day, maybe two, I need to have something for them that will either supplement our learning or continue to test their skills. With that, understanding the features to create an Excel Dashboard it is. A large number of organizations use e-Learning modules either as a sole resource for training or as a supplement to organizational learning. Even educational organizations, such as, SUNY Empire State College have given each student access to Lynda.com as a resource for e-Learning.

As a computer training firm, my organization typically teaches instructor-led courses. Training that occurs in a classroom environment where each learner is following the course with a series of hands-on activities. Certainly an effective way to learn for those who can take the time of their work day.  However, these days most of our clients want hands-on training but only have time to learn the things they know they need, which may not translate into the features of a tool they really need to be more productive. Using a tool such as e-Learning will help our clients understand not only what they have a good handle on but where they might have a skills gap.  This will allow them to create a training plan to best fit their needs. For my company, being able to access skills is something we have not done and can hope to achieve through this module. 

Although the concept of my learning environment is similar to Lynda.com, it is not my intent to replace Lynda.com. It’s my intent to create a value add for my clients and an assessment of their learning either after a course or before. To help them understand what they know and what they still have to work through to create dashboards in Excel. I have dabbled in designing e-Learning through one course and the need to create something quickly for my organization’s 30^th year celebration. I hope to hone my skill through my coursework in the MALET program so I can create the perfect tool for my clients.