Design

We’ve done the analysis phase, now let’s talk design.

The design phase determines the content that will be covered including the skills, knowledge and behaviour that is required to meet the learning objectives, and what methods you are going to use cover the content.

Deciding on the content can be challenging, and involves determining exactly what is to be included and how it is to be presented. 

Think about,

• What knowledge do learners need to know to be able to achieve the learning objectives?
• What learning methods are best suited to get the content across?  And,
• How will you sequence the learning?
• What form of assessment will you use?

To help you plan, first break the down content into three areas – knowledge, skills, and attitudes.

What knowledge do learners need to care for a patient with this clinical problem?

What knowledge will they need to gain the most from the course?

Then, think about what skills are necessary to achieve the learning objectives?

These technical skills should be determined by content experts, follow best practice and consider the current level of practice and skill of the target audience.

And finally the critical element in transferring skills and knowledge into clinical care in the workplace is attitudes and effective behaviour as a partner to knowledge and skill acquisition.   

A better way to consider attitude may be as another skill that can and should be learned and practised. 

The key is to highlight to the learner the critical role of attitudes and how they bring together knowledge, technical and non technical skills to be effective in the workplace.

Immersive simulation involving clinical teams is an ideal learning environment to explore and highlight the importance of teamwork.

When it comes to sourcing your content, do your research.  You might draw on a variety of sources including

• existing standards, such as ALS or hospital protocols and policies
• input from subject matter experts, and
• evidence based reviews.

The next pages will give you more information on how to determine an appropriate method, sequence your learning and start to plan your event.