Tailoring a Hybridized, Online Course to a Paraprofessional Audience

Abstract

The learning needs and technology skills of Community Nutrition Educators vary widely. In the development of online training for remotely located staff in their basic nutrition requirements, it was a priority that the technology did not get in the way of the learning experience. A course was designed to keep the technology “invisible”, with limited reference to technical terms, easy entry into activities, elimination of non-essential items on screens, and embodying a “high-touch” experience for participants. Pilot results confirmed the effectiveness of this approach; participants indicated that the content was clearly, effectively, and enjoyably presented in a unique, user friendly format.