I’ve run nine creative and digital technology programs over 16 sessions with Georges River Council’s library audience. The examples below document the strategies I’ve used across the programs. I’ve drawn from Merrill’s Instructional Design Principles and the 5E Model for learning my creative technology workshops.

Activation

I design my workshops to firstly spark engagement. I achieve this through an initial self-directed icebreaker activity presented on a Miro board, which is then used as a springboard to spark a discussion with learners to encourage them to share their past experiences and motivation for attending the workshop.​​​​​​​ This ice-breaker activity gives later-comers a chance to settle in before the introduction it also give me the chance to evaluate the learner’s ability to use a computer. A workshop agenda, design brief and/or visible project outcome is provided at the start so learners know what they’re working towards.

Demonstration

Afterwards I will structure demonstrations and short exercises to scaffold learning. Starting with simple exercises then build complexity as learners work towards project outcomes. Learners are provided with a visual and verbal walk through of the steps required, written steps are also revealed in the Miro board as we progress through the demonstration.

Application

Learners are given time to practice what they’ve been shown through. Progress is monitored through out and feedback is provided to the individuals and/or group. The task or activity are designed to build on previous concepts, as learners build confidence and independence.
Integration

I will look out for opportunities for learners to share their projects or findings with the group. Then at the end of the workshop learners are given the chance to reflect on what they’ve learnt – this is done either on the Miro board or verbally as a casual discussion.

Workshop examples

While I’ve utilised a variety of tools for different workshops (e.g Notion, digital PDFs and landing pages), Miro boards remain my favourite. As sections can be revealed as the workshop progresses to avoid information overload. Select the links below to visit some of my Miro boards.

• Packaging design masterclass
• After Effects animation workshop