Storyboards, AR/VR, and Podcasting

brief overviews of how these tools can impact learning

Storyboards

Storyboards are the rough drafts of multimedia designs by working as the skeletal system that supports the foundation of many multimedia creations. According to Pappas (2015), storyboards aid in specifically targeting the visual, audio, text, or interactive elements of a project. While no two storyboards are alike, it is evident that when they are properly utilized for a project the foundational elements are better established. A few of Pappas tips for developing strong storyboards are:

• Establishing clear goals

• Identifying the target audience

• Decide on desired multimedia elements

• Included details and scripts

• Map out transitions

AR/VR Technologies in Online Training

It is important to think of augmented and virtual reality tools as more than just gaming. For example, when utilized correctly, both AR and VR have the power to transform online training. Pappas (2018) describes the benefits of inserting AR/VR into training to eliminate risk and “facilitate mistake-driven learning opportunities” for employees within the workplace. By manipulating this tool in a way that provides real world experiences for employees, companies are able to offer training for their employees in safer and more relevant ways. AR/VR also presents employers with opportunities to provide realistic walkthroughs of work environments as well as offer real time product demonstrations. Through the use of technologies like AR and VR, trainings can be offered that better prepares employees for emergencies as well as provide real life examples.

Podcasting

Podcasting in education has made revolutionary strides in the past few years. Gray (2022) highlights a few powerful ways in which podcasting can be used to enhance student learning experience and aid instructors in providing quality content. Because podcast are so easily accessible, many institutions are foregoing textbooks and looking to podcasts to push out content in more modern fashions. The science and facts behind the success of podcasting for students is incredibly interesting. While it is generally difficult to encourage students to read or watch videos for certain amounts of time, it has been proven that students will generally lean towards listening to podcasts because listening to content can be done alongside other activities (Gray, 2022). While podcasting is definitely a great way to allow your auditory learners to succeed, it also can be used as a production tool. Instead of just listening to podcasts, students can begin creating their own podcasts and verbally share their learning.

Conclusion

As an instructional technologist, each of these elements are important to developing and sustaining successful eLearning environments. Educators are generally very good at taking a tool and finding a variety of ways to use that tool. Storyboards, AR/VR, and podcasting are no different. When utilized correctly, each of these tools could potentially change the course of instruction and better impact students.

Additional Resources:

https://shakeuplearning.com/blog/inspiring-students-with-ar-all-year-long-suls0201/

Works Cited

Gray, C. (2022, October 5). Podcasting in education: What are the benefits? The Podcast Host. https://www.thepodcasthost.com/niche-case-study/podcasting-in-education/

Pappas, C. (July 13, 2015). 12 tips to create effective elearning storyboards. eLearning Industry. https://elearningindustry.com/12-tips-to-create-effective-elearning-storyboards