When I started my time with the Learning Agency this summer, I wasn't sure what sort of project to expect. Would I be assigned to work with an external client who had a vision of a learning experience and needed my help to execute? Perhaps I'd be working on an internal project, and would be assigned a more senior Learning Designer to walk me through the process. Could it maybe be something in between, or none of the above?
It turned out that all of my guesses were correct. I'd anticipated being assigned to one project or client, but actually ended up with three different assignments. And though I couldn't have known it at the time, each of the three projects built on those that came before them, and in a way, uniquely prepared me for the next project to come.
My first assignment, intended to be a short-term placeholder, involved minor edits to an existing training. This assignment ended up being the perfect way for me to get my feet wet. I learned to schedule and document communication with stakeholders; this sort of task seems straightforward enough, but as a student you really learn about the nuances of even a simple task like scheduling. That said, a lot of work was taken care of already - the training had already been organized and built out in a way the clients were mostly happy with. My actual tasks (outside of administrative work) were primarily ensuring that links were valid and listed dates/processes reflected recent organizational changes. The project was important, to be sure, but not at all intimidating, and everything went smoothly and efficiently.
My second project was considerably more robust in terms of my responsibilities and contributions. Once again I was editing an existing module, but unlike the first version, there were more than just minor corrections to be made. The module was built out but unfinished, with several areas containing incomplete information. In addition, I realized quickly that half of the stated learning objectives were not actually addressed in the module. In addition to scheduling and communication with my client, I had to make strategic suggestions and adjustments to the learning strategy. There was also some information that could be presented, but I wasn't sure if it was relevant. I had to consult with a Subject Matter Expert to ensure the information we were sharing would actually help the learners and contribute toward achieving the learning objectives. By the time the project concluded, I was feeling more confident in my abilities, as well as well-prepared with new resources shared by my client which made my project management easier.
At this point, I felt eager to design my own training rather than redesign someone else's - which is why my third and final Learning Agency project is proving to be an ideal way to conclude my time with the program. I'm currently working on not just a single training or module, but a whole course - and other than the most basic of outlines, I'm designing the whole thing myself. This is a really cool opportunity to balance what I've learned about time management and scheduling with SME consultations, strategic adjustments, and my own understanding of ID theory. For example, I'm currently planning out an assignment within the larger course framework, and am utilizing the 5E model to ensure it's structured effectively for my learners.
I've put over 60 hours into my Learning Agency projects at this point. I wish there was time to put in far more than the remaining time. Each project is building on one another, from basic scheduling tasks to application of ID practice, in a way that reminds me of scaffolded learning practices. The only difference is that my instructor isn't an individual or even a team of individuals - it's the Learning Agency itself. I'm so excited to see how those skills continue to build upon each other and how my confidence and capability will grow.
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