Powerful questions to help you evaluate the learning material you intend to buy - Part 1

 

In South Africa, a plethora of learning materials for SETA or QCTO accreditation is available “in the market”, at ridiculously low prices for full qualifications.
The first question you should ask yourself, is: “Why are the materials so cheap?”
This is a serious consideration. It takes a good materials developer around three full months to develop the learning materials for a full qualification with 120 credits. Yes, it does take that much time – to:
·       Thoroughly analyse the curriculum.
·       Consider the target group so that information is provided at the correct level.
·       Use reputable sources of information.
·       Consider own subject matter experience and examples from experience to include appropriate and accurate information in the materials.
·       Developing an outline, considering what essential information should be included to meet assessment criteria, and what other information learners will need to understand the essential information.
·       Develop appropriate learning activities that help learners develop thinking skills in their are of work, and meet the assessment criteria rather than merely regurgitating information already given in the learner’s guide.
·       Ensure a good flow is created, for ease of use by facilitator and learners.
·       Phrase the required information and not plagiarise by just “copying and pasting” information from the Internet.
·       Ensure all knowledge and practical requirements of the curriculum are covered sufficiently.
When developing quality learning materials, costs of time can never be recovered by selling materials “for peanuts”.
The training provider needs to consider this first question if the company takes pride in the training provided to clients, to ensure that learners will complete the training programme with real skills required for the job.
In Part 2, I will discuss the next question, namely “How do I evaluate relevance and appropriateness?”