Scripting
First, we work with the lecturer to create the content framework for the module. The aim is to define what is to be taught each week. This includes the knowledge and the competencies to be acquired by students by the end of the module.
Next, the weekly content is further broken down into "Nano-topics". Our online learning experience is designed for students to study at their own pace and match their studies with their daily activities. We provide learning in bite-size by offering topics in a nano form. This enables students to focus their studies on one small digestible content at a time, based on their unique life routines.
Once the framework is set, our academic team, which comprises international discipline experts, will prepare and gather all the required resources for each topic to provide the expected content. We refer to this stage as scripting. This is because our academic team is truly writing and producing content that will be the blueprint to refer to during the digitalisation process. This stage is critical since it is the backbone of the learning experience students will receive, and every detail counts. When I say we go into detail, that's an understatement. Around ten people will be involved within a duration of two to three months in this stage alone!
Storyboard creation
During this second stage, we create an actual "storyboard" that details each week's content and if the topic will be in the form of text, exercises, activities, group work, quizzes, tests and videos etc.
By the time this stage is over, we have a plan and script for each part, the associated skillsets are well defined, and how the content will be delivered online is set.
Digitalisation
The third stage transforms all the content into the desired format: videos, activities, real-life scenarios, simulations and games, case studies, interactive web objects etc. We work with developers, videographers, graphic and multimedia designers, and editors during this stage, who help create stunning and exciting content. This stage can spread over several months. For example, video development may be done in several stages to ensure it is perfect.
We dedicate a lot of attention to building learning activities, which are small tasks for learners to complete after studying a topic. They are an essential part of the learning experience because they keep the student engaged in their learning, as they would be in a conventional class. Further, learners are able to check their own understanding and gauge if they are learning effectively. This helps students make sure they are on the right track.
Uploading
The fourth step consists of uploading the material into our online delivery learning platform. This is quite time-consuming because we go through rigorous checks to ensure the content is correctly uploaded, every file work as expected, etc. Our Learning management system is fully designed for online distant learning and provides an easy interface for students to navigate various nano topics.
Testing and Evaluation
The final step consists of having the content checked and used in the platform. Like the video game industry, we go through Alpha tests conducted internally to ensure that all aspects of the content (the learning flow, all the activities work as expected) and the Beta test phase, with people who take the modules as if they were students. We run these tests on both mobile and web, in different geographical areas and on different browsers. We will evaluate the tester's feedback and make an informed decision if we need to make a final tweak to the content before the course goes live. If everything goes well, we are ready to offer the module to learners.