Scenarios for the W.

Designing Linear vs. Branching Scenario e-learning objects:

Linear Scenario: In a linear scenario, the learner could choose a right or wrong answer. If the learner chooses a wrong answer, they are given immediate feedback to direct them to the correct answer. To move forward in the scenario, the learner must choose the correct answer. As an undergraduate student, I often had to do sexual harassment trainings that used a linear scenario. If I chose a wrong answer, I would immediately be given feedback and had to start again.

Branching Scenario: A branching scenario is complex to build, but engages the learner since it encourages them to go back and obtain the desired outcome by trying out different choices in the scenario. In branching scenarios, learners are not given immediate feedback and instead have to continue on their journey until they reach the endpoint. Afterwards, they will be given feedback of the culmination of their choices with an explanation of what happened and how certain choices may have led to a specific outcome. I’ve used branching scenarios in gaming, for example in the game Episode, the player's outcome depends on their choices and there is not a right or wrong choice.

E-learning Objects:

​Linear Scenario	​Branching Scenario
Guroo Producer Softchalk	Twine Articulate Rise 360 Yo Scenario

E-Learning on Computers and Mobile Devices

Computers: E-learning modules on computers modules could be longer and complex. It could include various types of multimedia and interactivity. During my time as a teacher, I had to complete various modules that only worked on the computer and were not accessible on a mobile device due to their complex features such as school shooting, sexual harassment, and Title IX modules.

Mobile Devices: With mobile devices, students can learn from anywhere with internet connection. However, due to its small screens, mobile learning modules must be short and have simple navigation. On my mobile device, I have completed modules on Nearpod that are short and simple.

Scenario

Is it a branching scenario or linear sequence?:

In the module Conversations that Work, learners complete a branching scenario module. In the module, the learner is able to choose an answer and not immediately receive feedback. Instead, the learner is given a compilation of their decisions at the end along with an explanation of why their choices produced certain results.

Is it suitable for computers, mobile devices or both?

Although the Conversations that Work module functions on computers and mobile devices, it would be more appropriate for this particular module to be completed on the computer. The module demands interactivity and the proportions of the module are significantly smaller on the mobile device.

Why is it suitable just mobile devices, computers, or both?

Although the module is short and the learners are able to access the content using touch on mobile devices, the module is more suitable to be completed on a computer. Since the module is meant for managers, and typically managers in companies are older, perhaps they would feel more comfortable completing the training on the computer (Ivec, 2015). Additionally, when I completed the module on my mobile device, it took a long time to load and I often had to refresh for the content to appear. Meanwhile, on the computer, the content appeared instantly and was able to easily complete the module.

References

Ivec, S. (2021, May 12). Desktop versus mobile learning. eLearning Industry. Retrieved February 4, 2022, from https://elearningindustry.com/desktop-versus-mobile-learning

Karcz, A., Building a scenario can be a daunting task because there are so many different possibilities. Scenarios can contain a simple linear path. (n.d.). 3 different types of scenarios you can design - E-learning heroes. E. Retrieved February 4, 2022, from https://community.articulate.com/articles/3-different-types-of-scenarios-you-can-design

Penfold, S. (2022, January 21). The best elearning authoring tools & software (2022 update). Elucidat. Retrieved February 4, 2022, from https://www.elucidat.com/blog/elearning-authoring-tools/

Rimmer, T. (n.d.). How to easily create branching scenarios in rise 360 - E-Learning Heroes. Scenarios are one of my favorite ways to immerse learners and give them a safe space to practice applying a new process. Retrieved February 4, 2022, from https://community.articulate.com/articles/how-to-easily-create-branching-scenarios-in-rise-360

Snegirev, S. (2021, May 12). The branching scenario method: Linear vs. non-linear branching scenarios. eLearning Industry. Retrieved February 4, 2022, from https://elearningindustry.com/branching-scenario-method-linear-non-linear-branching-scenarios