The development stage of this course emphasized a user-centered approach, focusing on user testing and feedback integration to refine the design. This phase included creating a prototype for the first module, selecting an e-learning tool that balanced user-friendliness with scalability, and ensuring quality through a comprehensive checklist for accessibility and content accuracy. I applied the UX Honeycomb Model to enhance usability and learner engagement, incorporated a branching scenario to promote critical thinking, and organized the development process visually with a Miro board. These efforts combined to create an effective and adaptable learning experience, laying a strong foundation for successful implementation.
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I chose Articulate Storyline after researching various e-learning tools, including Adobe Captivate. Storyline stood out for its flexibility and custom interaction capabilities, which were essential for my course design. I used training resources, practice files, and live webinars to build a strong foundation in the tool. This allowed me to create interactive content with layers, states, triggers, variables, and conditions.
One key feature I developed was a tabbed notebook that enabled learners to flip through pages, complete with a page-turning sound effect. This design minimized the amount of content presented in one place, reducing cognitive load and making the material easier to navigate. By organizing information clearly, learners could engage with each section at their own pace and revisit content as needed, enhancing their learning experience.
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A core design principle for this course was active learning. I prioritized interactions that went beyond simple click-and-reveal activities. For example, the branching scenario allows teachers to apply their knowledge in realistic situations and experience the consequences of their choices. This promotes critical thinking and deeper understanding of the complexities of supporting students in DAEP settings. The tabbed notebook, with its page-turning effect, was intentionally designed to mimic a physical notebook, creating a more tactile and engaging experience while reducing on-screen clutter. This helps learners process information more effectively and control their learning pace.
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To complement the main course content, I used a variety of supplementary tools:
I used Canva extensively for prototyping, drafting visual content, and testing layouts before implementing them in Articulate Storyline. This approach allowed me to visualize how elements would appear and function in the final course, ensuring a cohesive design and user-friendly experience. Canva was also used for graphic design and the creation of supplementary resources like job aids.
To complement the main course content, I created a companion website called Beyond the Classroom using Google Sites. This site functions as a virtual Professional Learning Community (PLC), enabling teachers in alternative education to access and share resources, lesson plans, and best practices. Integrated with Google Drive for organized resource sharing and Google Forms for feedback and requests, the site is designed to foster collaboration and provide ongoing support. This approach empowers teachers to connect and contribute, ensuring that the content evolves to meet their needs.
Prototype Testing and Feedback Loop
To ensure the course was effective and accessible, I adopted a strategic user testing approach throughout development. I involved my professional network, including retired educators familiar with district policies and alternative education, to gather early feedback and align the course with DAEP needs. This proactive step identified areas for improvement and streamlined adjustments before the prototype was finalized.
I expanded the testing group to include individuals new to education or with varied experiences to ensure the course was clear and usable for all. In the final stages, I used Articulate’s Review 360 platform to collect feedback on navigation, functionality, and content through an interactive review process. Additionally, a structured survey linked at the end of the course allowed testers to provide detailed insights on specific aspects and share general feedback.
This continuous feedback loop helped refine the course to meet the needs of its intended audience, resulting in a final product that supports professional growth for educators of all experience levels.
View and interact with the course introduction and Module 1 (before the assessment/case study application) in Rise 360 by clicking on the image below. This section includes introductory content, navigation guidance, and user support features, providing a comprehensive look at how different menu buttons function and how the course prepares learners for deeper engagement.
Click the button below to view the course feedback form. (Alternatively, it can be accessed on the last page of the prototype in Review 360.)
Key Development Components
Beyond the creation of Module 1, the development process involved strategic tools and interactive elements designed to enrich the learning experience. One such element is the branching scenario featured in Module 3. This scenario empowers learners to engage in decision-making that simulates real-world challenges, fostering critical thinking and active learning. By planning this scenario early in the course design, I ensured it aligned seamlessly with the overall learning objectives and user experience.
Additionally, I utilized a Miro board for visual project management, enabling me to map out the course structure, organize feedback from user testing, and keep track of design iterations. This collaborative tool provided a dynamic workspace for brainstorming and tracking progress, contributing to a smoother development process and a well-organized course.
Explore the branching scenario example and the Miro board below to see how these tools were integrated into the development process.
Click image to interact with scenario mapping in Miro.
Click image to experience branching scenario in Review 360.
User Experience Testing
The UX Honeycomb model is a framework that highlights the essential elements of a successful user experience, focusing on seven key aspects: usefulness, usability, desirability, findability, accessibility, credibility, and value. Below, you can explore how this course aligns with the UX Honeycomb model. Click on the buttons to learn more about each criterion and see how they have been integrated into the course design to enhance the overall learning experience.
UX Honeycomb Model
Quality Assurance
As I approached the completion of the first module and planned for implementation, I recognized the importance of thorough quality assurance to ensure the project was polished and ready for launch. While this module wasn't part of an official launch, I developed a comprehensive pre-launch checklist as a proactive tool for future development. This checklist helps instructional designers and developers systematically review navigation, user experience, accessibility, technical performance, and content accuracy. Through this process, I realized that incorporating these checks earlier in development would have saved significant time and effort. The checklist features interactive tooltips that provide concise reminders for each item, helping streamline workflow, reduce rework, and elevate the overall quality of course design. Hover over any of the ? icons in the embedded content below for more details.