Chunking Content for e-Learning Delivery: Does it really work?

Topics this issue:
1. Valuable tips in chunking content for e-learning delivery
2. Featured Vignette: “Baking the Right e-Learning Program”
3. Learning the methodology of converting content for e-learning delivery

1. Valuable tips in chunking content for e-learning delivery
Next time someone tells you to simply make “chunks” of your content to present them in e-learning format, ask this question: “What do you chunk and how do you chunk?”

Sometimes simple answers to complex questions lead to more confusion.

Chunking is defined as the process of separating learning materials into brief sections in order to improve learner comprehension and retention and allow quick access, exits and entries to topics. “Chunks” are shorter, smaller, and accessible learning modules.

Consider these ideas when you convert paper-based or classroom-based programs into an e-learning format:

1. The shorter, the better
   Your paper or classroom-based content is usually linear or in sequenced format. If you transfer them as is into an e-learning format, your program ends up as a long series of pages online. eLearners will quit your program. They do not tolerate long readings.
   
2. Prioritize and Reposition
   Reposition content so elearners will see the “must-be-learned” and “essential few” content first. You do not want them to miss this content.
   
3. Organize
   Separate clearly the “essential few” and “must-be-learned” content from secondary or supporting content like exercises, forms, references, examples, illustrations, etc. Position secondary content as secondary or optional links; they must not compete with the primary content.
   
4. Synthesize
   Finally, you cannot chunk content properly if you don’t do all of the above, as well as rewrite, reorganize and synthesize your content.
   

To see examples of this layout, click the link below: http://www.vignettestraining.com/rapid/onlinelearning.htm, register to be a member and select “Online Learning” from the table of contents panel on the left.

2. Featured Vignette: “Baking the Right e-Learning Program”
To preview more Vignettes, please visit http://www.vignettestraining.com/preview-main-vignettes.htm and register.
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3. Learning the methodology of converting content for e-learning delivery
In the Blended e-Learning Workshop you will learn the methodology and easy process of converting content into e-learning that has been tested to work in actual projects. To learn more about the "Blended e-Learning Workshop", please click here http://www.vignettestraining.com/workshops/index.htm

Ray Jimenez, PhD www.vignettestraining.com
"Helping Learners Learn Their Way"