Link to the interactive module for the mini-course "Utilizing Hatch Insights™ to inform small-group instruction" below:
https://storage.googleapis.com/chua_minicourse/index.html
How does the interactive module fit within your minicourse?
This is the first of two interactive modules in this mini-course. It addresses course learning outcome (CLO) 1.0 which reads: "By the end of this course, learners will be able to explain how key features of Hatch Insights™ digital platform can support targeted small group instruction in their classroom". Specifically, it targets module learning objectives (MLO) 1.1 and 1.2. In (MLO) 1.1, learners will identify what Hatch Insights™ is and ways that it can support classroom instruction. In (MLO) 1.2, learners will describe ways that Hatch Insights™ can specifically support small group instruction.
Explain how the learner will interact with the e-learning and why you chose that interactivity
Module 1.0 contains three interactive activities. First, is a matching exercise whose purpose is to have learners test their knowledge and understanding of readings presented in the module regarding the key features of Hatch Insights™. Learners match each feature with its description. The second is a sequencing activity whose purpose is to have learners test their understanding of material regarding the general process involved when using Hatch Insights™ in small-group instruction planning. Finally, the third exercise is a synchronous, in-person activity involving peer discussion. The latter exercise is in line with constructivist theory that encourages cooperative learning among participants. Learners share three features of Hatch Insights™ for small-group instruction, and provide an example on how each feature can support small-group instruction in their own classrooms. Learners will record their responses into the course interface and then take turns evaluating their partner's responses. A peer evaluation form can also be found on the course interface.
Reflect on the authoring tool you used to create your interactive module.
I used iSpring Suite (by iSpring Solutions, Inc.) to create my interactive module. Since my mini-course did not contain complex interactions, I decided to go with them over ones like Articulate 360. iSpring Suite leverages PowerPoint's interface in developing the e-learning experience. It was challenging in the sense that I am not a frequent PowerPoint user, so needed to get comfortable with their dashboard. But after a day of tinkering around I finally was comfortable enough to develop my course. While iSpring's Youtube beginner tutorials were a bit outdated and did not show current interface displays, iSpring's 24/7 customer service was a big help in navigating the tool's features.
As I learned to use the authoring tool, this in turn informed my storyboarding process. I found myself going back and modifying certain parts of my storyboard based on the capabilities of the iSpring authoring tool. In the future, I'd like to try using Articulate Rise 360, in order to compare the two, and also because Articulate 360 seems to be a popular choice among ID professionals.