Let’s look at scenario-based learning and how it can be used in eLearning.
What is scenario-based learning?
Scenario-based learning is an effective and popular learning strategy for eLearning. It is an active learning approach and is usually problem-based. Scenarios encourage learners to think, find solutions and explore the impacts or consequences of their decisions.
Scenarios can be presented in many ways including:
- Filmed scenarios with actors
- Animated scenarios with characters
- Images with voiceover
- Text-based scenarios
There are two main types of scenario: linear and branched.
What are linear scenarios?
In a linear scenario, every learner takes the same route. You will set the scene with a character and a problem. The learner will then be asked to make a decision and get formative feedback on their choice. If they select the correct option, the scenario will proceed to the next scene. If they select the incorrect option, they will receive feedback before proceeding to the next scene. No matter what they select, the scenario continues in the same way. Instant feedback allows the learners to try out different options and learn from mistakes.
What are branching scenarios?
In a branched scenario, the learner’s decision determines the ‘direction’ the scenario takes and, therefore, the next problem they’re presented with. In this way, the consequences of their decisions are demonstrated in the next scene of the scenario. Branching scenarios are more complex and time-consuming to develop as they can require many alternative routes that the learner may take. They can be effective when you want the learner to explore the consequences of a decision and are a great way to engage and motivate the learner to take an active role in eLearning.
When to use scenario-based learning
Scenario-based learning is a useful strategy for a variety of learning situations:
- When the learning outcomes relate to skills, such as management, dealing with bullying or harassment; developing soft skills, such as time management; or practical skills, such as data protection and cyber security.
- To demonstrate or apply new knowledge and skills in a variety of contexts. This will also help the learner to remember the new information.
- To engage and grab the learners’ attention. Create a scenario or characters that the learner feels invested in order to keep their interest.
- To make the content relevant for the learner and to provide examples that they may have experienced themselves or could relate to.
- To check the learners’ understanding, either through knowledge checks or in an assessment.
- To help learners explore the impacts or consequences of different decisions.
Tips for writing scenarios
- Make it realistic: Root the scenario in a real-life example or situation for the learners.
- Make your characters relatable: The learner should be able to identify with the characters and the problems they are having.
- Avoid stereotypes: Check your unconscious bias as stereotypes might seep into your scenario, particularly around gender, age, race and ethnicity.
- Write for your learners: The scenario should engage your learners, so keep this in mind: who are you writing for?
- Decide which details are in the narration, and what details should be represented visually on the screen: There is no point in writing unnecessary details into your script, such as ‘Jim was a tall man with brown hair, a beard and glasses’. This can is often better represented visually.
- Decide what details are important to include: Focus on the important details that will add credibility to the scenario, and what is important for the learner to know.
- Consult the SME: They will be an expert on the topic. They can check that your script is accurate and realistic.
- Make sure it has a strong purpose: Scenarios aren’t simply entertainment for the learner. They should have a strong learning purpose linked to your learning outcomes.
- Incorporate opportunities for the learner to answer questions about the scenario or explore options and decisions. Let the learner know they will need to answer questions or be asked to help the character solve a problem during the scenario. Setting them up with the expectations in advance will help them to be more focused when watching or reading the scenario.
This blog is part of a series that delves into scenario-based learning. Check out our other blog posts Branched scenarios in eLearning, Linear scenarios in eLearning, and Training through scenario-based learning.
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