Scenario Building to Plan an e-learning Program

Scenario building is a process that can be effectively used to design an e-learning program. It helps any type of organization determine the current state and desired state of education or training and to plan how to bridge the gap. Scenario building identifies the key stakeholders, who are typically students or participants, course developers, teachers or facilitators, support staff, and administration. Then, for each perspective, the relevant characteristics are identified, followed by a determination of what is required to meet the needs of a person in that category. The process also has the benefit of being a group activity that can facilitate team-building and commitment. We have used this process with multiple organizations to plan e-learning courses, online universities, and learning communities, and report on a case study.