The rapid shift to virtual learning in response to the COVID-19 pandemic required training managers across sectors to quickly adapt professional development strategies. This transition was particularly challenging for statewide sexual assault and domestic violence coalitions, where webinars became the default training format. However, traditional webinars often lack engagement and alignment with learning and performance objectives, limiting their effectiveness. This project sought to redesign the webinar development process by incorporating instructional design principles into a structured planning approach.
An asynchronous course was developed to guide learners through the application of instructional design principles and the use of a planning tool to create interactive, goal-aligned webinars. To evaluate the course, usability testing (n=3) involved synchronous sessions assessing navigation and design, while learning effectiveness testing (n=16) utilized pre- and post-surveys to measure knowledge gains and confidence in webinar planning. Usability feedback led to refinements in course structure, functionality, and the primary planning tool. Learning effectiveness results demonstrated increased post-assessment scores and heightened confidence in both instructional design application and webinar preparation.
These findings highlight the need for expanded training resources to further support coalition training managers. This project also underscores the potential for evidence-based instructional design to enhance virtual training effectiveness in mission-driven organizations. Future iterations of the course will include additional modules on effective webinar delivery and strategies for transforming recorded webinars into interactive, asynchronous learning experiences within a learning management system.
Meryl Hooker