Q: What is the instructional design methodology behind Microsoft Official Distance Learning (MODL)?
A: MODL is an innovative new learning platform blending online classroom training, live discussion and team collaboration facilitated by an expert Microsoft Certified Trainer. MODL leverages a next-generation instructional design called G-E-A-R that delivers learning in short modules with up to 10 times the number of student interactions and collaborations of a traditional classroom environment. Using real world scenarios designed for a specific IT role, students solve business problems and translate workplace requests into network administration solutions using live servers, application platforms, and desktops. Students learn, engage, and practice in an engaging, production-like environment with the systems access of a server administrator. Students are continually “check-pointed” on their progress closing the loop from their first interaction through the final assessment. The GEAR method helps lower costly in-field mistakes and increases retention significantly for students using this approach.
Q: What is unique about this online training experience?
A: The MODL experience is structured to optimize the best of instructor-led and self- paced learning, with time built in for assessments throughout the course. Instructors and students know at each module where the learning has happened, giving the instructor the ability to review key concepts as necessary; either with an individual offline, or to the class if needed. The courseware is designed to encourage interactive collaboration amongst the students. The Day in the Life scenarios provides an opportunity for students to solve real world challenges using intelligence-based avatar characters. These two factors combine to create a highly engaging online learning experience.
Q: How would you compare the MODL experience with instructor-led classroom experiences?
A: This instructor-led experience was intentionally designed to optimize the distant (or live online) learning experience. This ensures that:
- The student is more actively engaged in their learning experience. Content is intentionally interactive to minimize the tendency to drift off on other tasks during a live online session. Students want to continue participating and keep up with the class.
- Instructor is a facilitator instead of a lecturer
- Students are continuously assessed (after every module)off
- Students can learn at their own speed with the self-paced content
- Access to e-Learning and Scenario content 24 x 7 for 90 days
Q: How is MODL positioned against ILT and e-Learning?
A: MODL blends online classroom training, live discussion, real-world-based scenarios, and self-directed study delivered to the customers’ desktop. MODL courses offer the flexibility to be taken over a period of days or weeks – whatever best suits the students needs. These courses also include e-Learning and/or other self-paced activities or components. E-Learning is strictly self-paced, without instructor guidance and student interaction.
Q: How quickly can we get started with MODL?
A: Once your application is approved and your MCTs are authorized you can begin to offer classes immediately. This process typically takes on average 30 days. Visit https://partner.microsoft.com/global/program/competencies/40030028 to obtain a business application; or download directly from us … MODL Business Application.
Q: Who do we contact for MODL implementation questions?
A: There are several resources you may utilize. You can go to http://www.toolwire.com/modl for a full overview of implementation answers and best practices. You can also go to https://partner.microsoft.com/US/program/competencies/learningsolutions/40029098 or contact your TPAM for additional information.
Q: What resources from the product delivery side will be needed and what are the infrastructure requirements?
A: You will need to set up a web portal or use the Classroom-in-a-Box for students to log into, Live Meeting or other collaboration platform with similar functionality for the virtual classroom, a phone/conference bridge for each user, and PC’s with internet connectivity. Buying MODL kits is done with the same process and in the same easy manner as buying MOC.
Q: How effective have the early deliveries been?
A: MODL “Metrics That Matter” (MTM) scores have been consistently higher than any other method. Currently, the scores are coming in at an average of around 9.5+/10 (although MTM is measured on a scale of 9 we have normalized on a 10 scale for ease of interpretation). In addition, MODL is getting nearly unanimous results regarding students’ highly positive opinions on recommending a MODL course to others.
Q: What is the MODL Product Roadmap?
A: MODL is Microsoft’s unique Official Learning Product type that extends the facilitated learning experience beyond the classroom to enable IT Professionals more options and flexibility to get effective instructor-led training. This new product type includes a catalog available on key Microsoft products, including: Windows Server 2003, SQL Server 2005, Windows Vista, and .NET. Windows Server 2008 and ASP.NET will be available in 2008.
