e-learning Development: A Primer

Is e-learning for me?
Are you currently deciding if e-learning development is what your organization needs? Is the organization thinking of designing or procuring custom-built e-learning? In either case, deciding to undertake a custom e-learning development project can seem daunting. However, if you understand the foundation from which e-learning is designed, you’ll be on your way to planning a successful project.

This article outlines considerations that need to be made when beginning a custom ne-learning project. It will be helpful if the project is developed internally, or if contracted with a vendor.

There are several factors that define success of a custom e-learning project:
1) Clear definition of project goals and scope.
2) Staying within budget.
3) Timely project completion to meet a defined delivery date.
4) Suitable and sufficient resources.
5) An IT infrastructure that supports e-learning.
6) Positive learner response to the learning program.
7) A defined evaluation process after program delivery.

Additionally, it is helpful to have the following variables firmly in place in order to “set the stage” correctly to allow for success:
8) Early support and belief in the project from senior management.
9) Support and commitment from stakeholders.

You may have other success factors that are specific to your organization. After you’ve identified what constitutes success for you, then you need to begin to get the support and “buy-in” from all required players.

Phases of e-learning Development
There are five major phases in e-learning development. Listed below is each of the phases including their sub tasks:
1.Planning n a.Project requirements identification and collection n b.Project schedule and milestones n c.High-level content design n i.Subject matter review and stakeholder approval n d.Script development n i.Subject matter review and stakeholder approval n e.Begin assessment process of technical infrastructure and program needs

2.Designn a.Storyboard developmentn i.Graphic and animation design n ii.Subject matter review and stakeholder approval
3.Development n a.Course development in the authoring environment n i.QA and testing
4.Delivery and deployment
5.Evaluationnnnnnn