Kara Tanner
Project no.3 | Asylum Seeker Application Training
Branching Scenario Based eLearning Training
This is an eLearning module with branching scenarios designed to teach program staff how to review applications for asylum seekers. Program staff process simulated applications for asylum seekers.
Audience:
Program Staff
Responsibilities:
Instructional Design, eLearning Development, Graphic Design, Storyboard, and Mockups
Tools Used:
Adobe Captivate, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, Mindmeister
Project Overview
This project is designed to train staff to correctly review asylum applications.
Incomplete applications can lead to prolonged delays in the application process. The goal is for staff to review applications and catch any incomplete applications before they are sent to Customs and Immigration Services.
After reviewing examples of incomplete applications that led to prolonged delays for asylum seekers, I proposed a branching scenario based training to address this issue.
Process
I aligned my process to the stakeholders and SMEs and used a more agile and ADDIE for the interactive instructional design model for this project. I designed and developed this eLearning module from start to finish using backwards design. I created an action map, storyboard, script, designed virtual mockups, developed an interactive prototype, and developed the final product.
Action Map
After reviewing a list of the most common reasons that asylum applications are delayed or returned for corrections, I narrowed down the list to four reasons that could be caught during an application review process. With this information I created an action map.
Learning Approach
The learners of this material will be adults, currently employed or volunteering for a refugee The learners are intrinsically motivated to learn and have the ability to gain the skills required to review applications for asylum. One of the pillars of androgogy is the learner knowing the 'why' behind the training. As a result, I will incorporate explanations of processes and the consequences of incorrectly reviewing an application.
Text Based Storyboard
I created the storyboard based on the four reasons that asylum applications are returned or delayed. I included the real-world consequences of incomplete or improperly filled out applications for asylum. The real-world consequences were so compelling that I developed a storyline based around them.
I used an office as the setting for this module and throughout the module there is a mentor character that guides the module forward and that learners can return to when they need help. The character identifies as an experienced staff member and takes the role of a trainer.
Sample Script
From the text based storyboard I developed a sample script for the project. I relied on the organization's policy and procedures manuals to develop the sample script.
Visual Mockups
After approval of the text based storyboard, I developed visual mockups. I used Adobe Captivate to create visual mockups of the module. I selected the color scheme and font based on the agency’s brand and visual identity standards. I sourced graphics and edited the graphics in Adobe Illustrator to match the brand standards. I created unique graphics in Adobe Illustrator and used agency brand images, manipulating them in Adobe Photoshop.
I designed custom buttons using agency brand standards and applying WCAG rules of accessibility for color and contrast.
Visual Storyboard
I developed a visual storyboard of the entire eLearning module explaining each screen, on screen text/dialogue, buttons, programming, and graphics. This stage helped the client visualize the flow of the module and identify any issues before prototype development.
Interactive Prototype & Final Script
Next, I used the visual mockups, storyboard, and text-based storyboard to create an interactive prototype in Adobe Captivate for the first two questions. The interactive prototype used text-to-speech technology and allowed the agency to click through buttons and experience a branching scenario example.
At this time I also created an advanced script for review.
After getting feedback on the prototype and the advanced script, I changed the order of two of my branching scenarios to better align with the agency’s training and modified the script based on feedback.
The Final Product
After receiving feedback and several more revisions, I had the go-ahead on the layout, graphics, animations, interactions, and script.
In development I matched the triggers, layers, and advanced action timing with the audio creating a smooth and streamlined look. Once the client gave the final approval on the product I applied WCAG/508 accessibility features.
Accessibility
After final approval on the module, I applied accessibility features like closed captioning and keyboard triggers. WCAG Color contrast requirements were applied during the visual mockup stage. A PDF script of the training is included with the final product.