Scenario Based Learning Module

QUICK OVERVIEW

• Project Type
  Sample instructional design project

• Audience
  Professionals who create presentation slides

• Format
  Scenario-based e-learning module

• Tools
  Captivate / Camtasia / Adobe Illustrator

• Features
  Interactive elements, video, knowledge check

Project Overview

This project is a prototype for an e-learning module focused on improving slide presentation design. The module introduces learners to common presentation challenges through a short scenario in which a character’s is shown logical improvements for designing a better slide.

In the example shown here, the learners focus on specific strategies to improve slide design.

The sample includes interactive elements, a short instructional video, and a knowledge-check quiz that reinforce key ideas about effective slide design.

Interactive Module Prototype

Many presentations rely on slides that are overly dense, visually confusing, or poorly structured. When slides contain too much text or lack visual hierarchy, they compete with the presenter rather than supporting the message.

This module addresses those challenges by helping learners recognize common slide design problems and understand how visual organization affects comprehension.

To make the learning experience more relatable, the course follows three characters who are developing presentation slides. Each module focuses on a different challenge encountered during the design process.

The sample shown here introduces Riley, a professor whose slides contain several common design issues. Learners begin by examining her slides and identifying what makes them difficult to read and understand.

Learning Goals

By the end of this module, learners will be able to:

• Identify common problems in slide presentations

• Recognize how layout and visual hierarchy affect readability

• Evaluate slide design for clarity and effectiveness

• Apply basic design principles to improve presentation slides

The module uses a scenario-based learning approach to situate instruction within a realistic context. Rather than presenting design rules in isolation, learners encounter slide design problems through the experience of a character preparing a presentation.

• Guided improvement strategies
  Learners are introduced to practical techniques that can be used to refine a sample slide and improve clarity, organization, and visual hierarchy.

• Segmented instruction
  Concepts are presented in short, focused sections to support comprehension and reduce cognitive load. Interactive elements such as cards and tabs allow learners to explore ideas in manageable pieces.

• Knowledge checks with feedback
  Short quizzes allow learners to test their understanding of key concepts. Immediate feedback reinforces correct ideas and clarifies misunderstandings.

Module Structure

The sample prototype demonstrates the beginning of the module and includes the following learning sequence:

1. Course introduction and scenario setup

2. Introduction to the character and her presentation challenge

3. Analysis of problematic slide examples

4. Short instructional video explaining slide design principles

5. Interactive slide evaluation activity

6. Knowledge-check quiz

Design Decisions

Several design choices shaped the structure of this module.

Narrative framing
A character-based scenario helps learners connect the content to real workplace situations.

Visual examples
Slide design problems are easier to understand when learners analyze examples rather than abstract descriptions.

Segmented instruction
Content is broken into short sections to maintain attention and support comprehension.

Interactive reinforcement
Short interactions and quizzes allow learners to apply ideas immediately and receive feedback.

Reflection

This prototype introduces one on three characters of a in this course. Other modules address additional slide design challenges experienced by the other two characters.