Extension Engine
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Gamification is a big buzz word in the UX and online learning world. Many people get it confused with game design, which it is not. Game design is just that — the act of creating an actual game such as Sims or Angry Birds.

We would like to bring your attention to a webinar we recently presented with one of our clients, Fitch Learning. The webinar, Choosing a Platform for Revenue-Generating Online Training, provides a succinct and understandable breakdown of when to develop a custom learning experience — such as those we create — versus relying solely on a traditional learning management system (LMS).

Schools are realizing the grandiose potential of new technologies, but are now scratching their heads to answer questions such as these: How can my online program use 3D animators to create virtual worlds for online classrooms? How can my online program tap into cyber-replication of the vigorous discussion and debate that characterizes a vibrant college classroom? Where are the simulations that allow students to learn by manipulating variables and what-if scenarios?

These and a mass of other conundrums ultimately boil down to how can online programs actualize the potential promised by 21st century technology?

Last week, we attended the Eduventures Summit, the yearly instigator of a reawakening within higher ed’s biggest and best practitioners. The topics, though already top-of-mind for those of us leading innovation, were yet another reminder that differentiated, authentic, and visionary work is what’s driving the future of higher education.

Here’s a thought we ran into recently in an article in Edsurge regarding the future of online learning development: