This eLearning course is the outcome of my Master's degree Capstone project in Organizational Leadership. Drawing from my personal experience as an adult with ADHD, I recognized the hurdles that individuals with ADHD may face in securing essential workplace accommodations.
Project Goal
To create an eLearning course aimed at educating participants about the misconceptions, observable behaviors, and unique characteristics of neurodivergent employees, with a primary focus on Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). The course also delved into the effects of bias and microaggressions, emphasizing the significance of readily accessible accommodations for neurodiverse individuals within the workplace.
Approach
There are very few situations where I recommend skipping the storyboard stage. However, according to Articulate, Rise is so user-friendly that traditional storyboarding isn't always necessary. Additionally, I had already completed the research for my Capstone Project, so after creating the Design Document, I dove right into course creation.
To ensure the learning experiences align with the intended learning outcomes, I used the Backward Design approach. With the end in mind, I created the learning objectives, assessments, and interactions before anything else.
A look at the Backward Design flow.
I also incorporated the Universal Design for Learning (UDL) framework to ensure all contrast, multimedia, intuitive navigation, language, and learning options were accessible.
Course Challenges and Solutions
Challenge 1: Conveying Sensitivity in Design
Solution: Selecting a Thoughtful Design Theme
Creating a course on a sensitive topic poses the challenge of effectively conveying sensitivity in design. To address this, it is essential to choose a design theme that imparts a delicate and nurturing feel without resorting to explicit visual elements. This solution ensures that the course environment is supportive and respectful, fostering a conducive atmosphere for learning.
Challenge 2: Managing Information Overload
Solution: Condensing Content for Better Comprehension
Condensing a substantial amount of sensitive, sometimes highly technical information was a key requirement for this course. Sensitive topics often involve a wealth of information that may overwhelm learners. To avoid cognitive overload, I modified long paragraphs of information and data into visuals and easily digestible segmented content. This approach ensures that learners can absorb the content at a manageable pace, promoting better understanding and retention.
Accessibility
lt is important that learners are able to interact as fully as possible with courses. One of the benefits of using Articulate Rise is most blocks (and quiz lessons) conform with WCAG guidelines, this not only ensures accessibility for all users, but also makes it makes it simpler and faster for course creation.
Accordion interaction
Accordions can be beneficial for accessibility if they are designed and used appropriately. The pictured accordion allows users to navigate and interact with the accordion using a keyboard. This is crucial for individuals who rely on keyboard navigation rather than a mouse.
Example of a closed Accordion in a course
Flashcard stack block
Flashcard stack blocks are WCAG 2.1 conformant, making them an excellent choice to use for click-and-reveal interactions. Flashcard stacks also have better screen reader support and are fully keyboard navigable.
Example of back of a flash card in a course.
Example of back of a flash card in a course.
Course Implementation
The course is published on the APS website, allowing anyone to access the course at any time. It is self-paced, allowing users to complete the modules at their own pace.
