Electronic Problem-Solving Training (ePST)
The Electronic Problem-Solving Training (ePST) project was a team effort completed in EDIT 7550E, Project Management in Instructional Design course, led by Dr. Robert Branch. Our team, BrightVision Consultants, included Christelle de Beer, Jennifer Hoosier, Brooke Oliver, Julie Wyatt (Project Manager), and myself as Instructional Designers.structional design process.
-
The project was for the Department of Workforce Education at the University of Georgia, where we were asked to evaluate and enhance “Electronic Problem-Solving Training” lessons developed to support survivors of traumatic brain injury (TBI) in improving their problem-solving skills. BrightVision's role was to assess the strengths and weaknesses of these lessons, focusing on areas like language clarity, accessibility, engagement, and effectiveness of interactive elements, with a goal to guide the development of quality, learner-centered microlearning modules for TBI survivors.
We approached the project by defining the scope, objectives, constraints, and resources, alongside work breakdown structures, communication protocols, risk management, and evaluation templates. Key deliverables included a comprehensive evaluation report with specific recommendations for improving the lesson content, design, and usability to better support the TBI community. The project allowed us to apply essential project management skills, from planning and design to final delivery.
This experience stands out because it demonstrated the power of collaborative teamwork. Effective communication was our team's greatest strength, and our project manager played a pivotal role in guiding us, maintaining project scope, and creating a space where each member felt supported. We also learned how to manage diverse team dynamics when we encountered real-life scenarios, such as balancing workloads when a team member faced challenges. Through mutual respect and shared goals, we developed a strong bond and an environment of trust, empowering us to complete the project successfully.
Reflecting on this experience, I gained firsthand insight into the importance of well-defined project management processes, and I appreciated the opportunity to work in such a cohesive team. This project was a reminder of the importance of flexibility, empathy, and communication in teamwork, especially in instructional design. I’ve been part of various team experiences in my master's program, each offering unique insights into the impact of effective project management on both team morale and project outcomes. This was one of my best team experiences, and the final report was well received by our client, who found our recommendations valuable.
Throughout the project, we learned the importance of streamlining feedback processes, particularly with tools like screenshots. In hindsight, we realized that Review 360 could have been an even more efficient choice for collaborative feedback on specific slides. Ultimately, this project provided a valuable foundation in managing partnerships and collaborative relationships, as well as applying comprehensive project management skills within the instructional design process.