OnDemand has been Shortlisted for the Best Online Distance Learning Programme at the Learning Technology Awards.
In the run up the event, Head of Instructional Design and Development, Amanda Healey-Browne reveals the significance of it, and why the unique study method deserves recognition.
What does it mean to get recognition for OnDemand?
There’s a lot of competition in the professional qualification area - and Kaplan works hard to maintain its lead. All of the staff involved with
OnDemand are dedicated to making this product the best it can be.
To be recognised by the Learning Technology Awards allows us to compare the platform to our competitors. It will help us to understand our strengths and weaknesses in a wider context.
A win would give us a big seal of approval. It would make all the staff involved feel proud of their work and the daily contribution they make to Kaplan. There’s no doubt it would also help also to attract new talent.
How does your role in Instructional Design apply to OnDemand?
Kaplan Content Specialists are tutors or authors with substantial experience in the classroom or print. The Instructional Designers (IDs) help them understand how to adapt to online delivery.
We have a thorough understanding of what works best for online learning, and the types of activities that can reinforce learning.
We like information in short chunks, at any time. We like control! OnDemand fits well with current trends.
Is OnDemand new to Kaplan?
We initially rolled it out for CIMA Certificate and Professional in 2016. The teams then began work on AAT Foundation, Advanced and Diploma – which took all of 2017!
This year we have rolled it out for ACCA Skills, Essentials and Options. We’re currently working on ACCA Knowledge and ICAEW ACA Professional. Over the next few years, we’ll complete the roll out for ICAEW ACA Certificate and Advanced.
How has it developed?
OnDemand has evolved in different ways.
For CIMA, the product was primarily video driven.
Then with AAT, we incorporated more interactions and online exercises for students to complete.
For ACCA we split the content into Knowledge and Application modules. The Application gave learners detail on complex areas of the syllabus. It showed how topics can be applied to practical, real-to-life, scenarios.
In ACA, we’re currently making use of forums and tasks that consolidate and stretch a learner's understanding of a topic.
What’s the unique benefit of OnDemand?
It offers learners the benefit of being taught by Kaplan tutors in their own home or workplace.
They’re given a range of support options and have access to: online e-learning modules, assessments, mock exams, revision cards, study texts and Integrated Workbooks.
The learner takes control of their own education and uses methods unique to them.
How does it suit today’s learning habits?
Gone are the days when you’d go to a library to find out how to do something. We rely so much on Google and YouTube for support. Our culture is very video-centric. We are used to information in short chunks, at any time. We like control!
OnDemand fits well with current trends as it’s primarily video driven, that can be accessed over multiple locations, with frequent tests to check knowledge is embedded.
What are you looking forward to in regards to the awards evening?
These awards are a very prestigious event. I’m really excited to represent Kaplan and have all my fingers and toes crossed that we’ll win!
Any future plans for further development with OnDemand?
Of course! I know that OnDemand will continue to evolve. We’re always looking at feedback from students and clients, and running trials based on different ideas. Technology continues to move, and so will we.