It Could Use a Little More Salt
How do we test the salinity in cooked food products using an Auto-Titrator?
Audience
This eLearning module, part of the QA Training Bootcamp's eight-course series, is designed for QA technicians at a small food manufacturing facility to standardize knowledge and skills for operating laboratory equipment. It aims to ensure consistent, efficient performance among new and existing technicians.
Tools
Articulate Storyline, Google Suite, Microsoft PowerPoint, Microsoft Word, Canva, Adobe Express, YouTube, Clipchamp, Remove.bg, and Snipping Tool
Problem
The QA department was experiencing challenges due to high turnover and inconsistencies in how technicians utilized lab equipment. Many new hires lacked the technical skills to perform essential tasks, leading to inefficiencies and increased errors. Moreover, proper use of laboratory equipment was critical to maintaining product quality and meeting customer specifications during the cooking and product review processes. Addressing these gaps was vital for operational success.
Solution
To resolve these challenges, I collaborated with the vice president of QA, the QA manager, and the QA supervisor to design a comprehensive, three-step instructional process for the QA Bootcamp.
eLearning Modules: Interactive modules provided an introduction to each piece of equipment. The modules used a branching format, allowing learners to choose their learning path (e.g., calibration, operation, cleaning, and troubleshooting). Each section included:
Introduction.
Skill demonstration.
Summary.
Knowledge checks (progress contingent on answering correctly).
In-Person Training: SMEs delivered hands-on instruction to reinforce the concepts learned in the modules.
Evaluation: Technicians underwent assessments to ensure learning retention and application.
Once completed, learners earned a certificate of completion, signifying their readiness to perform QA tasks.
Project Development Process
Initial Planning:
Conducted meetings with QA leadership to identify key learning objectives and skills required for each piece of equipment.
Researched and observed current processes to gather content.
Storyboarding:
Created initial sketches and outlines using Microsoft PowerPoint.
Mapped out the branching pathways and content flow for each module.
Submitted the storyboard to the project development team for approval.
Incorporated feedback from stakeholders before final development.
Development:
Built the modules using Articulate 360, integrating videos, images, and interactive elements.
Designed engaging visuals and animations with Adobe Photoshop, Canva, and Adobe Express.
Created video content using a digital camera and ClipChamp for editing.
Implementation:
Uploaded the completed modules to the company’s LMS for easy access and progress tracking.
Evaluation:
Monitored learner progress and gathered feedback to make iterative improvements.