Learning from a Project “Post-Mortem”

It is very effective for project managers and their teams to review the project when it is complete to determine lessons learned. This way they can learn from their successes and failures to make improvements in future projects (Greer, 2010).

                The project that I am going to do a post-mortem on for my class is one that I did at work recently. As the Bar-Code Medication Administration (BCMA) Coordinator at my hospital, I suggested purchasing new wristbands that could include the patients’ color photograph, several options to color-code different risks or warnings, and the bar-code for our BCMA software, and they would not need the clasps to fasten them. Patient identification is a top priority in the health-care field, especially for medication administration. I had suggested this project before, but was unable to get the buy-in needed for the additional cost. This time I had the Patient Safety Manager (PSM) giving support for it. Also, another facility in our network had already implemented them and there was talk of all of our facilities in our network converting to them, which, in fact, is now in process.

Greer (2010, p.5) identifies ten steps for project success as follows:

1.       Define the project concept, then get support and approval.

2.       Get your team together and start the project.

3.       Figure out exactly what the finished work products will be.

4.       Figure out what you need to do to complete the work products. (Identify tasks and phases.)

5.       Estimate time, effort, and resources.

6.       Build a schedule.

7.       Estimate the costs.

8.       Keep the project moving.

9.       Handle scope changes.

10.   Close out phases, close out the project.

Successes

Acting as project manager (PM), I was able to get the support of our upper management by working with the PSM and the BCMA committee. I worked with the vendor to find out what would be required and gathered a team which included the PSM, representatives from Information Technology (IT), nursing, laboratory, and upper management. Most of the team was on board for the early process, but the latter work was mostly from IT, the vendors, nursing, and me. The vendors were very helpful in identifying the tasks, schedules, and costs. For the most part, this project went fairly smoothly and was eventually successful.

Lessons Learned

However, there were some things that could have been done better. Although, I had approval of upper management, I did struggle some with the chief of our IT department in trying to get things to move on schedule. I should have had more support from his boss and him. Also, I was new at ordering equipment, software, licenses through our system. Having someone more knowledgeable in that area would have helped immensely. I had to get assistance from logistics with it, but it was a learning experience. They also had to assist once the equipment was in to make sure all of the paperwork was completed. I could have used more support as well in getting the team to all of the meetings. However, when there is limited staff in an area and they are responsible for multiple projects, there were competing demands on their time (Portny, Mantel, Meredith, Shafer, & Sutton, 2008).

One thing that I did not consider well was being able to print from our test account. For BCMA training, I always created test patients with wristbands and medications from our test account. I was so worried about getting everything to work in production that I forgot about test account. We can still get them with our old wristband printers, but I am working on having IT develop test patients in our production account for me as I found another facility that already has these wristbands currently do. Maybe that was actually a ‘Freudian slip’ since I had wanted them to do that for years, but they said it could not be done. Maybe it will finally get done after all.

 

References

Greer, M. (2010). The project management minimalist: Just enough PM to rock your projects! (Laureate custom ed.). Baltimore: Laureate Education, Inc.

 Portny, S. E., Mantel, S. J., Meredith, J. R., Shafer, S. M., Sutton, M. M., & Kramer, B. E. (2008). Project management: Planning, scheduling, and controlling projects. Hoboken, NJ: John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

 

Welcome to my blog that I am continuing to use for my Walden assignments. I have started a new course titled Project Management. I welcome your comments.

Distance Learning Reflection

Reflection of Distance Learning

                 Education has dramatically changed over the years, especially the last few years. But, change is seldom easy, especially in changing to something unknown. Distance education intimidates some people because they do not understand it or the technology that goes with it. Distance education is not only online, but can be blended with face-to-face (F2F) education as well. This can help some transition to distance learning. But, change is coming and distance education is gaining in popularity. With all of the advances in technology and telecommunications, distance education is becoming “more available, easier to use, and less costly” (Simonson, Smaldino, Albright, & Zvacek, 2012, p. 4). In this blog, I will be discussing my perceptions of distance learning for the future (in 5-10 years; 10-20 years); how I can as an instructional designer be a proponent for improving societal perceptions of distance learning; and how  I can be a positive force for continuous improvement in the field of distance education.

                In the near future of 5-10 years, my perception is that distance learning will become more accepted, but even further into the future, it will become more commonplace than traditional education. I believe a part of that is the younger generations are much more comfortable with technology. George Siemens explained that there is growing acceptance of distance education which is fueled by an increase in online communication, practical experience with new tools, growing sense of comfort with online discourse, and the ability to communicate with diverse and global groups (Laureate Education, 2010). Distance education will also be affected by even more advanced communication technologies, contribution by experts from around the globe, and increased use of multimedia, games, and simulations (Laureate Education, 2010). Another growth is with the massive online open courses which offer free courses around the world for free and are taught by experts.  I also think acceptance will increase because it does show to have a cost savings. Classroom spaces increase for traditional classes, money saved in travels, travel time saved, and money and time save in productivity in corporations. Also, many institutions promote their online programs with the benefits of convenience and flexibility (Gambescia & Paolucci, 2009). Overall, I believe the perception of distance learning in the future will be favorable.

                To be a proponent for improving societal perceptions of distance learning, I, as an instructional designer, would need to create high quality distance programs. This can be accomplished in the planning process by assessing the learners, creating essential content that is organized, choosing the correct media and teaching strategies, and selecting the best learning environment (Simonson et al., 2012). And in doing so, I would need to “think outside the box, to collaborate and to advance the common vision” (Moller, Foshay, & Huett, 2008, p.66). Engaging the students is critical in changing perceptions of potential students. If they can see that distance learning is not just listening to recorded lectures and reading assignments, they can get excited about the ways technology is used and therefore increase their learning, and maybe encourage others along the way.

                I can be a positive force for continuous improvement in the field of distance education by keeping up to date with research in the field. Being aware of new teaching strategies and new technologies will improve my distance learning programs. Working closely with the subject matter experts will keep my programs in line with the educational information. If I am using a course management system, it must be well-organized and user-friendly. I will also continually assess and evaluate programs to continuously improve them.

                In conclusion, I believe distance learning will continue to blossom as people continue to find ways to work around their schedules in order to obtain degrees. Whether online, blended, or traditional, learning will continue. Knowledge is power.

  

References

 

Gambescia, S., & Paolucci, R. (2009). Academic fidelity and integrity as attributes of university online degree program offerings. Online Journal of Distance Learning Administration, 12(1). Retrieved from http://www.westga.edu/~distance/ojdla/spring121/gambescia121.html  

Huett, J., Moller, L., Foshay, W., & Coleman, C. (2008). The evolution of distance education: Implications for instructional design on the potential of the web (Part 3: K12). TechTrends, 52(5), 63–67. 

Laureate Education, Inc. (Producer). (n.d.). The Future of Distance Education [Video webcast]. Retrieved from https://class.waldenu.edu/webapps/portal/frameset.jsp?tab_tab_group_id=_2_1&url=%2Fwebapps%2Fblackboard%2Fexecute%2Flauncher%3Ftype%3DCourse%26id%3D_1959715_1%26url%3D

 

Simonson, M., Smaldino, S., Albright, M., & Zvacek, S. (2012). Teaching and learning at a distance: Foundations of distance education (5th ed.) Boston, MA: Pearson.

 

               

               

               

 

 

Converting face-to-face training to a blended learning format

This week in our course we were given the following scenario:

 A training manager has been frustrated with the quality of communication among trainees in his face-to-face training sessions and wants to try something new. With his supervisor’s permission, the trainer plans to convert all current training modules to a blended learning format, which would provide trainees and trainers the opportunity to interact with each other and learn the material in both a face-to-face and online environment. In addition, he is considering putting all of his training materials on a server so that the trainees have access to resources and assignments at all times.

 We were then to create a user guide that the training manager could utilize to take the face-to-face course and convert it to a blended learning format. In the guide, it includes information on some pre-planning strategies, what aspects from the face-to-face course that could be enhanced in the distance learning environment, how the role of the trainer will change, and some tips on how the trainer can encourage the students to communicate online. This guide is based on best practice for converting face-to-face courses to blended learning formats. There are several references used to support this. There is also two checklists from online sources that could be of help for this trainer. In using these tools and tips, converting face-to-face courses to blended learning courses will result in satisfied students who will be able to transfer their learning to the workplace.

 

Here is a link to the guide.

 

Week 5-Application

This week in my EDUC 6135 course we are looking at the planning and designing of distance learning (DL). In planning the design system, one has several components to consider such as “the learners, the content, the method and materials, and the environment, including the technology” (Simonson, Smaldino, Albright, & Zvacek, 2012, p. 152). Also, the interaction of these components must be done well to produce effective learning experiences. We have also taken a look at some of the Open CourseWare courses.

Open courseware “is a free and open digital publication of high quality educational materials for colleges and universities” (Open CourseWare Consortium, n.d.). The one that I chose to examine was at http://oyc.yale.edu/astronomy/astr-160#syllabus  titled Frontiers and Controversies in Astrophysics. At first glance, it seems a fairly simply-designed course. But, upon further exploration, there is a syllabus stating the name and title of the professor, description, text required, requirements, and grading. The class is divided into sessions which include an overview, resources such as class notes and websites, and the video presentation. The lectures are broken down into chapters which include the timings on the video. You can also choose to view/print the transcript or listen to or download the mp3. It also has options for low or high bandwidth viewing depending on your internet connection. It even includes the two midterm exams and the solutions. There is an option to view the catalog and buy books, and to also submit an evaluation survey. All of these options and methods are good planning for online learning.

The course is organized fairly well for distance learners as it is simple to navigate and has some variety between text, audio, or video giving the learner options. The videos also allow for the learner to go at their own pace, stop and repeat sessions. The lessons are designed to be completed in a linear method (Simonson et al, 2012), but that is up to the learner and what they want from the course. The video lectures, notes, and resources are all very well done. However, since there is no registration, credit, degree, or certificate, it is strictly an instructor-led course with the learner obtaining their learning on their own. There is no interaction. The learner is actually auditing the course. They must do the learning on their own since there is no feedback. Essentially, I believe the course is mostly a traditional classroom learning experience without actually being in the classroom which is not one of our text’s fundamentals of teaching online (Simonson et al, 2012).

As for the active learning, I did not feel this course provided much of that. The only active learning would be starting, pausing, rewinding, and stopping the videos, and taking the exams and checking the answers. I feel this course is good for those that truly want to learn and can do so with no interaction. But, to create a better learning experience, there needs to be more interaction such as discussions. But, since this course is open to anyone at any time and there is no registration or monitoring, it is nice just to provide the information from a classroom such as Yale which many would not normally have the opportunity.

  

References

 

Open CourseWare ConsOpen CourseWare Consortium (n.d.). About Us. Retrieved November 29, 2012, from http://www.ocwconsortium.org/en/aboutus 201211292148141780654192

Simonson, M., Smaldino, S., Albright, M., & Zvacek, S. (2012). Teaching and learning at a distance: Foundations of distance education (5th ed.) Boston, MA: Pearson.

 

There are many types of technology tools that the instructional designer can use to enhance the learning experiences of distance learners. My assignment this week is to identify two distance learning technology tools to provide a solution to the following scenario.

 Asynchronous Training
In an effort to improve its poor safety record, a biodiesel manufacturing plant needs a series of safety training modules. These stand-alone modules must illustrate best practices on how to safely operate the many pieces of heavy machinery on the plant floor. The modules should involve step-by-step processes and the method of delivery needs to be available to all shifts at the plant. As well, the shift supervisors want to be sure the employees are engaged and can demonstrate their learning from the modules.

 Instructional Needs and Learning Outcomes

In choosing appropriate technology tools for asynchronous online instruction, one needs to assess the instructional needs and learning outcomes, which are the “observable, measurable behaviors that are a consequence of online instruction” (Simonson, Smaldino, Albright, & Zvacek, 2012). For the above scenario, these were identified:

·         Stand-alone asynchronous modules illustrating best practice and step-by-step processes

·         Interactive competencies to verify learning

·         Supervising tracking records

 

Technologies

Developing an interactive video that staff can make selections in choosing the correct step in the process engages the student and increases learning. One site that creates interactive videos is http://www.scientificanimations.com/interactive-medical-training/ (Scientific Animations, 2012). The videos are created with step-by-step processes, and then the user must decide what step is next. This makes the learner pay attention and think through the process instead of just viewing it.

 Another technology is a video that shows the steps as well as showing possible errors. Once such video example is located at http://www.rossiterandco.com/CorporateVideoExamplesTraining.htm (Rossiter & Co., 2012). This learning would be very realistic, effective, and authentic (Simonson et al., 2012).

 These technologies could be utilized within a course management system (CMS) so that there could be competencies developed and record tracking completed for the supervisors. The CMS could also provide communication between staff and supervisors (Simonson et al., 2012).

 

Scientific Animations 2012 Scientific AnimationsScientific Animations (2012). Retrieved November 18, 2012, from http://www.scientificanimations.com/

Rossiter & Co. (2012). Retrieved November 18, 2012, from http://www.rossiterandco.com/CorporateVideoExamplesTraining.htm 20121118145944157820940

 

Defining Distance Learning

 I am posting this blog as part of my EDUC 6135 application requirements. I will give my personal definition and observations of distance learning prior to this class, my revised definition after reading and viewing the resources for this week, and my vision of the future for distance learning. I will also incorporate a mind map for my new definition and my vision for the future.

My definition of distance learning was one of utilizing the internet to connect to the classroom instead of actually being face-to-face in a physical room. The instructor and students would communicate with each other and utilize different forms of class work such as essays, discussions, quizzes, presentations, and team projects. The learning is asynchronous.

Although, I had heard of correspondence courses, my first contact with distance learning was at my local community college in getting my Associate in Applied Science degree in computer programming. I took a course using WebCT. I had to post to the discussion board, answer short answers, write a short paper, and take quizzes. Although I utilized a real book, I also had resources to read online. All of my other courses in the program were in the classroom and were very difficult for me to attend while working full time 12-hour night shifts. My next encounter with distance learning was through Indiana Wesleyan as I obtained my Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree through their online program. That program was very similar to this degree program. I utilized a book and online readings, discussion boards, quizzes, presentations and essays, and team projects. My BSN degree took a lot more work, but I could do it on my time around my other responsibilities. In the federal health care field, distance learning is not necessarily a separation geographically, but more so in time. We have a lot of our mandatory annual training online through a Talent Management System (TMS). Although many of the modules are very simplistic with text and graphics, a few of them are more interactive or have videos. Many of the modules are converted from PowerPoint at our facility, but some are created at other facilities. We connect to the TMS modules online and most have some sort of quiz at the end. They are viewable asynchronously from any of our computers. They are all self-paced with no instructor. However, with some of the computer training, Camtasia software is utilized to show staff the steps involved and is sometimes interactive.

Simonson, Smaldino, Albright, and Zvacek (2012, p.31) define distance education as “institution-based, formal education where the learning group is separated, and where interactive telecommunications systems are used to connect learners, resources, and instructors.” Since I obtained my BSN online, I feel like my definition was very similar to that. I think technology has really changed the way learning occurs and has opened the door for many people to obtain higher education. There are so many different kinds of software that can be utilized in distance learning. Distance learning brings education closer to everyone.

As for the future of distance learning, my vision sees many more opportunities available to more people. Technology will continue to advance to bring the classroom to people in their homes and on the go with iPads. What appears to be missing with the interaction is now being fulfilled with social sites such as wikis, blogs, and facebook, or even webcams and videoconferencing.  I do think there will always be a need for a physical classroom as there are always learners who learn better in a more structured, physical environment.

 

References

Simonson M Smaldino S Albright M Zvacek S 2012 Teaching and learning at a distance: Foundations of distance educationSimonson, M., Smaldino, S., Albright, M., & Zvacek, S. (2012). Teaching and learning at a distance: Foundations of distance education (5th ed.). Boston, MA: Pearson Education, Inc.  201211041326461152214408