I rapidly developed this responsive micro-course in Articulate 360 Rise. I provided a clear structure for how to create a knowledge base but DIDN’T provide prescriptive details regarding layout choices, design, etc. MANY different factors affect knowledge base design (industry, company size, etc.); providing an overview with additional linked supporting resources gives context to the learner without them getting lost in the dizzying array of detailed options possible.

This design choice was also rooted in adult learning theory: providing learners with every answer and piece of information reduces the challenge in the learning process and ultimately decreases the amount of information retained. In their book Make It Stick, Brown, Roediger, and McDaniel explain,

“Experiential learning is a form of generation: you set out to accomplish a task, you encounter a problem, and you consult your creativity and storehouse of knowledge to try to solve it. If necessary you seek answers from experts, texts, or the Web. By wading into the unknown first and puzzling through it, you are far more likely to learn and remember the solution than if someone first sat you down to teach it to you” (208-209).

Thus, the design of this course functions as an introduction and resource bank for learners to consult as needed. It’s a launching pad for their knowledge base creation process - one that allows for experiential learning and a resulting customized knowledge base that fits unique company needs and constraints.