Entertain to Retain: Maestro eLearning Courses Increase Learner Comprehension and Retention

Training dollars are too valuable to waste on low-impact learning. Maestro eLearning uses cutting edge research in multimedia learning theory to design courses that make content "sticky." Entertaining courses teach concepts through vivid images with engaging narration, relevant stories, and scenarios which stress self-directed choices and immediate feedback.

Kalamazoo, MI (PRWEB) February 27, 2009 -- As budgets tighten, the need increases to squeeze effectiveness out of every training dollar. Online training is a cost-effective way to train dispersed employees, but mind-numbing text-heavy screens are a common approach. Fortunately, Maestro eLearning uses cutting edge instructional design techniques to make their programs engaging, entertaining, and "sticky."

Our minds are information filters, with our brains processing thousands of messages each day. Most of it stays in working memory briefly, then is quickly replaced by something new. In fact, less than 10% of what we hear makes it into our permanent, long-term memory. Maestro has developed a new approach that makes messages memorable.

Maestro uses engaging visuals and vivid images to anchor concepts and utilize the powerful sense of sight. Why do we remember scenes from movies as if they happened yesterday? Narration in a conversational tone, combined with powerful visuals , create long-lasting memories. Well-constructed elearning courses move most of the text off screen and resemble movies more than books.

Stories are memorable, as well. Talk about a concept, and it stays fuzzy and abstract. Link it to a story or example, and it becomes clear and memorable. Elearning courses can move beyond information download to become a memorable experience through well-selected, relevant stories.

Scenarios are important to move concepts from working memory into long-term memory. Scenarios allow learners to apply concepts and receive immediate feedback. The closer the scenarios come to real-life application, the better the resulting skill transfer. Allowing learners to make self-directed choices is important in adult learning, and scenarios and branched learning give learners options from which to choose for themselves.

Entertaining elearning isn't unprofessional; it's an effective way to help employees learn, retain, and apply the necessary concepts. Why do you remember that funny commercial from 10 years ago? It was sticky because it was entertaining. eLearning budget dollars shouldn't be wasted on ineffective courses that just dump information. Maestro eLearning has developed the approach that will make elearning courses engaging and memorable, while squeezing every bit of value out of those training dollars.

For additional information about Maestro eLearning custom courses, contact Jennifer Randall at 800-319-2122, or visit www.maestroelearning.com.

About Maestro:
Maestro eLearning is a fresh and growing company with a core expertise in creating high-impact, engaging, and cost-sensitive online training programs. Maestro delivers measurable results for Fortune 1000 clients in the healthcare industry and beyond. Maestro has offices at the Michigan Technical Education Center in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Key clients include Abbott, Bard, Cordis, DePuy, Phadia, Vistakon, and Zimmer.

Contact:
Jen Randall, Director of Marketing
Maestro eLearning
269.488.7236
jenrandall(at)maestroelearning.com
www.maestroelearning.com

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