Four Basic Flash Learning Activities For e-Learning Development
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(Part 2 of 4 Part Series)
By Dana Fine, Senior Instructional Designer at SyberWorks, Inc.
In our first article, we looked at developing a ‘circle answer conditional’ learning activity and discussed some variations relating to various types of scenarios. In this example, the learning activity is “conditional” because the user has a choice of answers and the learning activity will respond a certain way, depending upon the answer that the student selects.
Today, we will examine the 'drag and drop, many to one correspondence' learning activity and provide some variations, so you can see how this learning activity may be used in various learning scenarios. Again, I would like to stress that any number of learning activities can be developed using Flash, with varying levels of difficulty and sophistication. The selection of these four learning activities is by no means exhaustive or definitive. This series provides a framework for how you can go from concept to learning-activity development. As with the first example, we will provide a link to a sample for your viewing. Let's begin.
2. Drag and Drop, Many to One Correspondence
Description:
This learning activity consists of a list of elements that each fit into a category. More than one element may be dragged to a category, but each element may only be dragged to one category. In other words, the same element cannot be dragged to two categories. However, different elements may be dragged to the same category. After the student successfully drags the elements to the correct categories, the student gets a congratulations screen specific to that learning activity.
Functionality:
First, instructions appear describing the learning activity, with directions. The student then drags the first-column choice on the left side of the screen to the second-column category to which he believes the first-column choice belongs. If he is correct, the first-column choice aligns next to the second column choice, and he will hear audio indicating that his choice was correct. If he is incorrect, the first-column choice returns to the first column and he may hear audio indicating that his choice was incorrect. More than one element in the first column may belong to a choice in the second column. After the student has successfully dragged all choices to the correct second-column categories, the student sees a congratulations screen and hears applause.
A Drag and Drop, Many to One Correspondence:
INSTRUCTIONS:
You are placing new supplies/merchandise into the correct cart for distribution by department. Drag the supply/ merchandise to the correct distribution cart:
Picture or chart indicating elements and categories available: Example, fill in for your learning activity:
Picture or chart indicating questions and answers available: Example, fill in for your learning activity:
| Element heading (Supplies/Merchandise) | Category Heading (Distribution Cart) |
|---|---|
| Snow Pants | Clothes |
| Gloves | Clothes |
| Baseball Cap | Clothes |
| Sweater | Clothes |
| Hot Wheels | Toys |
| Tricycle | Toys |
| Barbie | Toys |
| GI Joe | Toys |
| Stroller | Baby |
| Bottle | Baby |
| Diaper | Baby |
| Wipes | Baby |
The first column is randomized so that the student has to find the correct answer. (We need the question template to show us the correct answers before we randomize them.)
Ending Text Message (may be a picture) Audio is generally applause. Example, replace for new activity:
Fractions are fun! Congratulations!
Here is a link for you to check out the “One to Many” learning activity http://www.syberworks.com/onetomany_sample.html
Below are some variations of the 'Drag and Drop, One To Many Correspondence' examples where this method of learning is useful:
Example: 1 In a project management course where users would identify logical steps of a process by identifying their sequence within multiple project stages.
Example: 2 Diagramming a procedure in a complex manufacturing setting where learners are being certified on various tasks as part of their job requirements.
So, until next time, have a great month!
About the Author:
Dana Fine is a Senior Instructional Designer at SyberWorks, Inc. SyberWorks is a custom e-Learning solutions company that specializes in Learning Management Systems, e-Learning solutions, and custom online course development. Dana is also a frequent contributor to the Online Training Content Journal
The Online Training Content Journal 
The Online Training Content Journal blog looks at best practices, techniques, and trends in online training development and e-Learning instructional design.
