I designed a consistent software training framework throughout Dyson's systems training initiative.
Explore it – Watch it – Try it
The Explore it - Watch it - Try it framework offers learners the option to learn from experts (Explore it), the choice of either completing each step/task themselves without any guidance (Try it) or being guided through each step via step-by-step video tutorials (Watch it).
Learners can switch between modes at any time. But if they make a mistake in Try it mode, they are asked to revisit the Watch it mode.
Designed for skills and competences development
This gives learners the flexibility to accelerate their learning by exploiting existing knowledge and competence.
The framework recognises differences in learner styles/preferences. Some will embrace the Try it challenge while others will prefer guidance. Letting learners choose their preferred mode, will enhance engagement and, in turn, learning effectiveness.
Try it mode is ‘active’ learning; rather than being ‘shown’ or ‘guided’, learners are given the opportunity to try it out for themselves.
Research has found that learners who are cognitively active during learning, are far more likely to be able to recall and apply that learning later.
The strategy automatically links learning time to learning need. More competent learners may complete all tasks in Try it mode while those who find the system more challenging will spend more time in the Watch it mode, practicing in a risk-free environment with remedial support.
This approach provides a great return on investment as it ensures learner time is optimised, reducing the total time spent training.
Instructional ‘How-to’ mini videos are an excellent way for employees to gain a solid understanding the different tasks and activities they need to complete within the tool.
During the Watch it part of the framework, employees are going to learn by watching step-by-step videos to see the tool in action, how easy it is, how it behaves and what results they are going to expect.
They will also be supported by their virtual instructor!
Characters in digital courses, play the role of an online facilitator; taking learners through the course by acting as guides. The guide can introduce the course or each learning point, give effective feedback, or provide useful tips to your learners.
During these videos I created a character who will guide learners through the system but also to give top tips and advice on how to use the new software to their benefit. The aim was to establish this character as the software 'wizard' in Dyson. A consistent presence throughout your software training modules, rather than having a disjointed digital learning software experience.
The character will be able to direct learners to the next online lesson, compare related ideas, and show the connection between each of the systems they are learning about.