A Performance Development Group Case Study

MakingDiversity

RealTraining

PDG partnered with a large employment and retention solutions company to create Diversity Training on Spirituality and Religion for a large pharmaceutical client. The pharmaceutical company was currently utilizing Instructor-Led Training (ILT) to assist in effectively navigating issues related to Spirituality and Religion. PDG collaborated with their team to create a post-ILT e-learning course where learners could practice applying the knowledge and skills gained during the ILT. The client expressed asked PDG to develop an instructional strategy and graphical treatment options that improved learner engagement and enhance learning retention.

The company also needed the training to run through their learning management system, and for users to take their training on either a PC or iPad.

Opportunity

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Based on discussions with the client, PDG formulated a number of recommendations for instructional strategies that could be employed in an e-learning course to increase learner interaction and engagement. The overall approach was to make the course more experiential and less didactic. The course focused strongly on “scenarios:” short, story-based episodes that demonstrated how Spirituality and Religion arise in real-life encounters, and asking the participants to respond quickly to these situations.

By asking the participants to respond quickly, the course encouraged a “gut-level” response, much the same way responses often happen in real life. These scenarios were then followed by reflective feedback, helping participants understand how their own instincts and training drive their behavior—and how they can thoughtfully adjust their behavior (if necessary) in the future.

The course opened with a high-energy video to connect the e-learning to the ILT, gaining attention and establishing the relevance of the content for the workplace.

Solution

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In the example below, a character named Flora shares her feelings and “states the facts” while having lunch with a co-worker.

Anthony responds to Flora in the same scenario.

Solution

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The course used scenarios to apply and contextualize complex content. The course utilized illustrated animations and professional voice talent for narration and character voices to create a more rewarding user experience.

The course narrator, Kathleen, introduces a scenario.

Brian, an atheist who feels others are talking about him because of his beliefs, is upset because of a note he found on his desk.

Solution

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Learners are asked a series of questions on the best way to address the workplace scenarios.

At the end of the course, completion status is passed to the LMS and a certificate displays (on the iPad and PC).

Solution

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ImpactThe course received high praise from both pharmaceutical client and the Diversity content partner. The realism and contextualized scenarios will help raise awareness and create a more inclusive workplace.

Delivering training on an iPad is still relatively new in the training and development field. PDG continues update our capability to stay current with platform features. During this project we:

• Upgraded our audio and video player for a flawless user experience on an iPad. • Developed several new page templates to create a more immersive experience. • Developed strategies for using illustrated characters for a less confrontational experience when dealing with sensitive topics.

Lessons Learned

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Performance Development Group301 Lindenwood Drive

Suite 100Malvern, PA 19355

(phone) 610.854.4400(fax) 866.280.3646

www.performdev.com