SUBJECT MATTER EXPERT

Learning objectives might be one of the most important aspects to course design.  It is imperative that learners know what they are supposed to achieve while learning.  While collaborating with the SME, Instructional Designers will be able to include objectives that are best for learners based on the SME recommendations. Below are some examples of learning objectives that would help users during their courses.

Developing Learning Objective Scenarios

Directions: Reflect on the information presented in the module this week regarding Bloom’s Taxonomy and how learning objectives should be developed based on the context of the context of situation presented.   Review the scenarios provided in this week’s worksheet and review the situation.  You must determine an appropriate goal and develop learning objectives to align to the goal you have created.  Remember, learning objectives must align with the goal you determined.  Conclude the assignment with a brief summary actions steps you would address with a SME.

Scenario #1: For the past ten years, KawKan has been using a lean manufacturing approach in the assembly of their motorcycles.  Over that decade, business has remained strong, but operational costs have continued to increase despite increased sales every year. Management has considered the idea it might be time to switch from the Lean process to a more robust continuous improvement model. Since the company is immersed in the practice of Lean manufacturing model, the management team is not familiar with the basic elements in the continuous improvement model. Management has asked you to prepare a presentation outlining the continuous improvement process and how implementing how it can improve the overall manufacturing output. The designated contacts for this project include the director of supply chain management and the director of continuous improvement for production.  

Your role: Assume the role of an instructional designer developing an outline for a training resolution. How would you address the following to correctly identify the learning objectives for this project:

Goal description: Improve operational process by using the continuous improvement model to improve manufacturing output.

Learning objectives/outcomes:

·         Define what the continuous improvement process is.

·         Illustrate the differences between the Lean manufacturing model and the continuous improvement model.

·         Reframe the current Lean manufacturing structure to the continuous improvement model.

Potential Subject Matter Experts/Define their role in the project: The SME will be able to provide the basic structural differences between the two models that are being reviewed.  They will be able to break down the differences and possible similarities into terms that are easy for those who are learning the material. They will provide information to those within the company as to what objectives and training will be beneficial to workers.  The SME will also evaluate feedback on the lessons to help the ID improve upon the course and close any learning gaps.

Scenario #2: MedPat is a moderate-sized medical device manufacturer with offices, distribution centers, and production facilities scattered across North and South America. The company's growth has primarily been done through the acquisition of smaller and competing business in the same market.  Given the degree of displaced locations, different operating procedures, and non-integrated systems, the operations have become too strenuous.  One of the larger sites has been chosen as a test site to harmonize the setup and production of the company's new devices.  Soon, other sites will be manufacturing this same device too.  MedPat needs to remove itself from a paper-based operation because it slows down production, the records are hard to consistently manage, and it leads to communication issues with the site and field reps.  The designated contacts for this initiative consist of a process improvement expert and the vice president of production.

Your role: Assume the role of an instructional designer developing an outline for a training resolution. How would you address the following to correctly identify the learning objectives for this project:

Goal description: Med pat will transition from a paper-based system to a more efficient electronic process of operations.

Learning objectives/outcomes:

·         Describe the basic features of the new electronic process of operations.

·         Demonstrate the effectiveness of the new electronic process of operations.

·         Formulate a method of transition from a paper to electronic process of operations.

Potential Subject Matter Experts/Define their role in the project:  The SME will have extensive knowledge of both the paper-based and the new electronic process of operations.  They will be able to help the ID when it comes to ensuring that the content is correct and to who the content should be catered to.  The SME will be able to help provide the reasoning for the process of operations switch, as well as the pros and cons for the transition.