Not directly linked to this course but an observation in general. I was watching a a show on the Science channel last night about the Navy's Coastal Riverine Force, specifically using their new Mark VI boats during an exercise off the California coast. The narration made a statement on how the boat could deliver the "six soldiers" on board to the oil platform. I heard that and cringed because you never call sailors "soldiers."
I would think that the producers have the narration text reviewed by a technical advisor, just like we develop curriculum with the assistance of a Subject Matter Expert (SME). I made me realize that the subject matter expert must not only have the technical knowledge of the subject, but in most cases the subject matter expert must have the "cultural knowledge" relating to the subject.
This means not calling sailors or Marines "soldiers." You do not steer an airplane, you fly it. It is how a community uses common language to describe what they do in relation to the world. To misuse that language destroys the perceived value of the product to that community, be it a cable show episode or learning product.
Most instructional designers rely on their subject matter experts to cover them on these issues. It has been my experience that to be truly effective you must have at least two SMEs that do not work together, or the instructional designer must become a second SME using technical manuals, written doctrine, or standardized procedures for what they create curriculum for.
You make a great point about using SMEs to help cover any issues you may encounter as the instructional designer. I write training for law enforcement and we highly rely on our SMEs to help us with content. None of the developers are experts in the field of law enforcement and we probably would have no idea what we're talking about if it weren't for the SMEs. It's very important to use trusted SMEs when designing instruction.
ReplyDeleteGood point have two independent people to review technical content. Four eyes are better than two, and it helps to ensure your content is accurate in its context.
ReplyDeleteIn my experience working with journalists, this kind of final review doesn't always happen. Especially if they feel pressed for time. However, you make a great point about the importance of using the right terms and understanding the cultural context.
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