Asynchronous Distance Learning Technologies

In an effort to improve its poor safety record, a biodiesel manufacturing plant needs a series of safety training modules. These stand-alone modules must illustrate best practices on how to safely operate the many pieces of heavy machinery on the plant floor. The modules should involve step-by-step processes and the method of delivery needs to be available to all shifts at the plant. As well, the shift supervisors want to be sure the employees are engaged and can demonstrate their learning from the modules.

The best solution for this case is the Asynchronous learning, it is a student – centered teaching method that uses the online learning resource to facilitate information sharing between networks of people at anytime and anyplace (Wikipedia).

As instructional designer, in order to build these stand-alone modules, I would use the linear programmed instructions technique, which requires all content to be organized into concepts that are presented in blocks / modules. The students review the content which involves a step-by-step processes, then take a self-test, and if successful move to the next block of information. This happens sequentially until all the modules are completed. The ID have to determine the order of concepts / modules based on the sequence of the processes and the students should move in the same order (Simonson et. al., 2009), pp.119.

To build the learning materials, I would use narrated PowerPoint presentations that include text, processes flow charts, costumed graphics, snap shot pictures, videos and flash animations. A course management system such as Moodle or any other available CMS should be used to host and administer the use of the presentation contents, students assessment, required reading and assignments, some sort of communication and reporting such as e-mail and blogs, course and system statistics and course management components such enrollments, course calendar and coursework grading.

My first example comes from New York State Department of Health to show how the integrations of PowerPoint, flash animation, custom graphics, special video effects, and professionally produced video and narration in a professional way have resulted a great online modules for the National Quality Center, please check the presentation from:  http://www.nqcqualityacademy.org/tutorial1/

The following link accesses a website that gives a great example of how the use of flash animation technology and animated presentations can produce highly interactive distance learning modules:
http://www.clearlytrained.com/portfolio/eLearning_Samples_of_Work.htm

References:

Clearlytrained website:  http://www.clearlytrained.com/

Simonson, M., Smaldino, S., Albright, M., & Zvacek, S. (2009). Teaching and Learning at a Distance Foundations of Distance Education (4th ed). Boston, MA; Pearson.

WebWorld Technologies website :    http://www.webworldtechnologies.com/distance-learning-systems

Wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asynchronous_learning