How to use the story-based approach in software training - Tip #12



Software training is a challenge because of the technical details that learners are expected to comprehend.

As is often the case, the statistical information overwhelms the learners to such extent that they lose focus resulting in decreased understanding and retention.

How does the story-based approach enable better data visualization to help enhance learner comprehension?

The "Models for Reporting eLearning", show us three possible models to develop software training:

Model 1 - Software Demo. Created in products like Camtasia. Usually used to teach the "how to" and is used by learners on demand and as needed.

Model 2 - Software interactive learning approach. Participants learn features and functions by responding to "do this". They are provided hints. Usually used in drills and practices.

Model 3 - Story-based and context-based - both follow the SRIA model. The goal is to help the learner focus on a case: a real-life event and story that compels them into actually using the software. This makes the use of the software more meaningful and focuses on problem solving and common issues experienced by learners. 

Click here to view the 3 models and the examples

Interweave stories at strategic points in your elearning design to emphasize the learning points and context discovery.  

Ray Jimenez, PhD
Vignettes Learning
"Helping Learners Learn Their Way"http://storytakes.com/output/4585/1327/index.html