Structured Writing

Structured writing is a way of evaluating, arranging, and delivering different types of
information. It gives you a good starting point for any writing project and it can be applied to
any type of information, even spoken!

There are many key elements to good structure. Always Use clear, concise modules that convey a single topic, procedure or idea. You need to group related modules together and use short, meaningful headings and sub-headings.Always be consistent in the use of graphics.

There are many benefits of a structured writing. Structured writing ensures  that information is easily accessible and understandable. Content can be produced quickly and can often be re-used. It enables the setting and maintaining of excellent standards in all types of communication,
throughout an organization.

The most important factor for any writer is to always remember the user.They must be able to get to what they want quickly and easily. Don’t assume that the user will read through all the documentation sequentially.Always be conscious of how the user will access the information being presented.Make sure the user can find the right section of text quickly.

Multiple Intelligence Theory

This theory was developed by Harvard psychologist Howard Gardner in 1983.According to this theory every individual has seven types of intelligence.

Linguistic intelligence
Ability to use spoken and written words.

Logical-mathematical intelligence
Ability to use numbers and reasoning.

Visual -Spatial intelligence
Ability to visualize things and spatial dimensions.

Bodily-Kinesthetic intelligence
Ability to control body motions.

Musical intelligence
Ability to master rhythms, tones and beats.

Interpersonal intelligence
Ability to communicate with people and form relationships.

Intrapersonal intelligence
Ability to understand one’s own emotions and inner state of being.

In our schools and society in general we focus more on the linguistic and mathematical intelligence ability. This theory emphasizes that we must also appreciate individuals who show gift in other intelligences. It also says that teachers must use a variety of ways to using music, cooperative learning, art activities, field trips, and inner reflection methods in class rooms.

This theory can be also applied for adult learning and development. For example if you are a highly Logical-mathematical individual and working in a job that demands heavy physical work, then you will be sure to be drained out. You will do better in a job that involves logical reasoning such as a programmer or analyst.

This theory also has its fair share of critics. Some argue that learning is synonymous with individual personalities and cannot be categorised.But this theory is widely popular and very interesting as well. Don’t you agree?

E-learning interactions in Flash

Recently I started learning Flash in detail and I must say it is truly addictive. Today I would like to share about the in-built function in Flash that can be used for e-learning interactions. In most e-learning courses at the end of each chapter or lesson, we access the learner. The most commonly used assessment techniques are multiple choice, true or false, drag and drop etc.

In Flash CS3, these interactions are in-built and ready to use, so that you needn’t create them from scratch. On the toolbar, navigate to Window > Common Libraries > Learning Interactions. Here you can find various assessment methods such as Drag and drop, Fill in the blank, Hot Objects, Hot Spot, Multiple Choice and True or False.

You can just drag any of the items to stage and start working. You can modify them according to the needs of your course and learners. I think this is a great resource for any e-learning developer.

E-learning Resources

I came across this site which has some free books on e-learning interactions, rapid e-learning, synchronous e-learning, Moodle, LMS and many more. These are really great resources and are absolutely free! Grab them now!


http://c4lpt.co.uk/resources/freebooks.html

E-learning demos

I would like to share few e-learning demos that i recently came across. This site has demos on cable box installation, Telephone customer service, Microsoft Netmeeting, and a overview on Fire extinguishers. Quite interesting! Check them out.


http://www.gpworldwide.com/elearning/demos.asp

Microsoft E-learning

Microsoft is the worldwide leader in e-learning providing an easy and effective learning experience . The biggest advantage with Microsoft is that the course content is created by the Microsoft experts themselves and so it is straight from the horse’s mouth.

Microsoft courses provide lots of interactivity with games, adventure activities, and their hands on lab give you a real-time exposure of the software. So taking their course can help you enhance your current skills, learn about a product, or even prepare for a Microsoft certification exam.

So what are you waiting for? Try an e-learning demo now.
http://www.microsoft.com/learning/elearningdemo/nav/coursePlayer.htm

E-learning for kids

I recently came across this great website dedicated to fun and free learning. It consists of courses in math, science, reading, health, and computers for children in the age group of 5 to 12 years. It is a global non-profit organization run by volunteer staff consisting of e-learning and education experts.

You can also get involved and contribute to them depending upon your profile. You can do a monetary contribution. If not you can provide them your expertise and knowledge. You can develop e-learning for them or contribute your existing content. Do check them out!

http://www.e-learningforkids.org/