LifeLongLearningLab

Well, once again, I am squeaking in at the very end of the month to answer the Learning Circuit’s Big Question. My Big Question is: Where did June go?!

Anyway, to respond to the Learning Circuits Big Question, I am proud to share two e-learning examples developed by my employer, Vangent, Inc. of Arlington, VA. At Vangent, we help organizations create a high-performing workforce through a variety of talent management services, including customized blended, instructor-led, and e-learning solutions. I wish that I could say that I had designed either of these two pieces, but I didn’t have anything to do with them. I’m just glad I work with such talented people.

Example 1. American Red Cross Disaster Services Training.
Purpose: To motivate people to become Disaster Services volunteers and to provide more information about how to volunteer

What to Notice:

• This piece was created using our library of standardized Flash templates. These templates have been usability tested and used for numerous organizations, so we know they work.
• The piece does a nice job of guiding learners through a process of getting them interested (why), providing them with more information (what), and then inspiring them with a call to action (how).
• Drama is created using only photos, music, and sound effects. This engages learners and motivates them to find out more.
• The teaching is held together via a storyline of a fire. Learners watch how Red Cross volunteers respond, and occasionally they are invited to help out.
• Interwoven through the action are Red Cross principles and testimonials from celebrity volunteers.
• The module ends with a call to action. Learners complete a survey identifying their interests; then, they can view relevant volunteer positions.

Example 2. Fifty Lessons
Purpose: To provide managers and leaders with targeted leadership lessons from the world’s most prominent business leaders

What to Notice:

• These lessons harness the power of storytelling to convey important lessons on leadership.
• Each video is about 3 – 5 minutes.  
• Supporting materials, such as Ideas for Action and Questions to Ask, are provided to facilitate knowledge transfer and behavior change.
• I especially like that you can select a topic and then pick from a list of relevant lessons.
• The lessons are flexible–offered in a variety of different media and different packages.