“E-learning is here to stay. As computer ownership grows across the globe e-learning becomes increasingly viable and accessible. Internet connection speeds are increasing, and with that, opportunities for more multimedia training methods arise. “ – Talentlms | Image Source: Pixabay 

The Philippine Society for Talent Development (PSTD) recently concluded its Batch 4 masterclass on Designing E-Learning, a ten-hour, blended learning activity conducted last July 5, 9, 12, 15 and 19. The training was attended by over 40 participants coming from the private, academe, and government sectors. As more and more organizations turn to virtual training for its delivery mode today, the course sought to help participants build the confidence and skills in create robust e-Learning programs, using best practices in instructional design. In the course of running these four batches of Designing E-Learning, PSTD established a national standard of excellence in developing e-Learning programs.

Marby Tabungar, the program facilitator, is a lead design and innovation consultant for Prevo, a human-centered design and innovation firm. Her 14 years of experience in supporting private- and public-sector organizations on talent development strategies and digital learning capabilities earned her the credibility to conduct this course. She is currently the Chairperson for the PSTD Digital Learning Committee. (For more of Marby’s credentials, go to https://www.linkedin.com/in/marbytabungar/) Her associate, Anne Lee, project and business development manager of Prevo, served as co-facilitator.

The course was composed of three modules namely: (1) Analyzing e-Learning, (2) Developing an e-Learning program, and (3) Designing e-Learning Modules. Participants learned by watching brief training videos narrated by Ms. Tabungar, engaging in the Zoom sessions, finishing assignments, passing on-line quizzes, and exchanging peer feedback. These videos were accessed through the PSTD LXP. Participants were also coached on best practices for good storyboarding such as attention to details, accuracy of script, conversational tone, and inclusion of stories.

The facilitator emphasized the need to adhere to the rigorous process of conducting a training needs analysis (TNA), instructional design plan (IDP), storyboarding, courseware development, quality check, and launching. Thus, part of the output expected from participants to complete the course included: the TNA, the IDP, two storyboards, and the two videos/courseware arising from those storyboards.

As an added post-program support mechanism participants joined a Viber community where they could pose questions and offer advice, either from Ms. Tabungar or co-participants. Successful completion of the course will garner the participants an e-Certificate of Completion which could form part of the PSTD Master Trainer Certification Program.