Off the Cuff on Scenario-Based Learning
Alexander Salas interviewed me on Off the Cuff about scenario-based learning. Listen to us chat about types of scenarios for learning, how to use them, and more.
Storytelling & Scenarios
Color-Coded Branching Scenario Flowchart
A color-coded branching scenario flowchart shows you the decision structure at a glance. Use the DotGraph proofing format with Twine to create one.
Designing Engaging Digital Learning Podcast
Listen to my conversation with Keith Quinn of the SSSC (Scottish Social Services Council). We discussed engaging learners, technology, and much more!
Instructional Story Design: Book Review
Rance Greene’s new book, Instructional Story Design: Develop Stories that Train, provides a systematic process for creating stories for training.
Streamlining Branching Scenario Planning and Design
Watch my presentation on Streamlining Branching Scenario Planning and Design for tips on getting stories from SMEs, using branching structures, and more.
Go Beyond Boring: Creating Scenario-based Learning That Engages Participants (Podcast)
Listen to the recording to learn why scenario-based learning engages participants, including how to “hook” learners and draw them into the story.
Consider 4 Cs in Scenario-Based Learning
When creating scenario-based learning, consider 4 Cs: characters, context, challenge, and consequences.
Cutscenes in Branching Scenarios
Borrow from video game design to create cutscenes in branching scenarios: short scenes that move the plot forward without requiring interaction.
What Challenges Do Your Characters Face?
A story with no challenges is boring and won’t engage your learners. When we use stories for learning, the challenges should mimic the kinds of issues learners will face in their real workplace. You don’t need an evil villain in your story, but you do need obstacles to overcome.
What’s Your Character’s Goal?
Scenarios for learning should include several critical elements: a protagonist or main character, that character’s goal, and the challenges that character faces. The main character’s goal is what drives the scenario. All of the action and decisions in the scenario move you closer or further from that goal.