As a pioneer, innovator, and a creator, Walt Disney possessed one of the most creative and aesthetic imaginations ever known. Using animation, Walt found news ways to use technology to join the richness of history with the possibilities of the future. The Disney theme parks captivate millions of visitors, both young and old, each year with immersive atmospheres and thrilling adventures. Most of all, Disney visitors loosen up, take their hats off (or put crazy hats on) and have fun as they return time and time again! Distance educators have much to learn from Disney's total immersion technique, park navigation, and attention to detail, security measures, and optional FASTPASS. This presentation will explore ways to immerse online students in captivating eLearning content through imagination and innovation.
From the front gate, to the hub of the Magic Kingdom, Cinderella's Castle, visitors of all ages are completely immersed in a whimsical adventure. The theme is carried out in the town squares, the rides and attractions, gift shops, restaurants, special services and of course, the cast members in character costume. Such attention to detail contributes to the beloved atmosphere capable of bringing the "child" out of even the most serious adults. After all, where else might you see an adult skipping through the streets sporting a Goofy hat or Mickey Mouse ears? While less whimsical in nature, students in an online course should also be greeted with a strong first impression that stimulates a desire to learn. Contributing to this first impression is a consistent, cohesive feel in every detail from the course graphics and visual design, to the logical order and presentation of engaging content.
Once guests are immersed in the magical atmosphere, the creatively designed park maps, signposting, and friendly cast members are at every turn to help visitors confidently navigate. Disney takes the importance of navigation one step further with a plush Mickey Mouse interactive doll that uses wireless communication technology to provide guests with up-to-date information, directions, and park tips. Without such detailed navigation, guest could easily become overwhelmed, frustrated and ultimately, miss out on many attractions. Likewise, consider the importance of navigation to the online student. Students in an online course need clear navigation to be successful. Course navigation should begin with a clear and obvious starting point providing detailed course expectations, policies, assignments, contact information. It should extend throughout the course with learning objectives, grading rubrics, and multiple means of communication. With careful attention to detail, the online instructor can create an effective and enjoyable eLearning environment.
Have you ever wondered how cast members in character just appear from nowhere? How trash simply disappears from overflowing bins? How food, drinks, and souvenirs are always well stocked throughout the park? All of this occurs seamlessly and invisibly in an underground in tunnel system with hidden entrances placed strategically throughout the park. This system not only provides a navigation route for park employees, it reflects extensive attention to detail and creates an almost perfect fantasy world for guests. Such attention to detail requires planning, time and a commitment to a quality experience. The same holds true for the behind-the-scene details in an online course. It is important to provide a schedule, follow the schedule, set clear expectations, provide timely detailed feedback and engage the learner. A tremendous amount of planning and behind the scenes work goes into every quality online course.
Upon entering a Disney theme park, guests quickly scan fingertips to ensure the validity of the ticket holder, there are certain policies for items brought in, and security cameras are used to monitor activity throughout the park. The security measures are not an invasion of privacy; rather, a proactive measure to ensure an enjoyable experience by all. In response to the emergence of technologically mediated instruction, the Best Practices were originally drafted by the Western Cooperative for Educational Telecommunications as a means to assist institutions. Concern for security in online courses is specifically identified {sec 5b} calling for the assurance of student integrity and proper student identification (NCAHLC, 2001). Just as Disney extends security measures, educators can use a variety of security techniques, including password protected materials and proctoring technologies to validate student identity and integrity. Once the guests have entered a Disney theme park, the FASTPASS provides smooth and timely access to many of the most popular attractions. This perk allows guests to customize their visit and be right where they want to be - enjoying the ride. Following the FASTPASS concept, online courses can be developed to allow students to customize the learning experience based on previous knowledge, skills and accomplishments. Students in lower level courses can progress at their own pace, using conditional content release settings. Such a customized approach will match the learner's education level while still ensuring the required competency.
Ultimately, people flock to Disney theme parks for entertainment and fun and students enroll in online courses expecting a high quality education. Whether waiting in a two hour line at a theme park or taking an online course, the experience can be interactive and engaging. From the moment of entering a line for a Disney attraction, guests are stimulated and entertained with music, visuals, interactions, and characters visits making the long wait more tolerable. As mentioned previously, it is important to set clear expectations, provide lesson content and assessment, and conclude with a concise checklist. However, the importance of including ample interaction with peers, multi-media resources, and of course, "fun" self-assessments should not be forgotten. This final touch will keep the interest level high and keep the students coming back for more.
Whether it is a total course immersion technique, clear course navigation, meticulous attention to course detail, careful designed security measures, or a customized learning approach, eLearning educators have much to learn from the creative mind of Walt Disney.
