Technology Enhanced Learning Design and Facilitation

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Accessibility

As many learners as possible can access, use, and benefit from the learning resources and environments you create.

Accrediting body

Organisation that sets and maintains professional or educational standards. For example, SQA.

Active breaks

Quick and informal learner activities used as checkpoints for engagement and understanding. 

Active learning

Learner centred approach. Any activity that encourages the learner to take part in the learning process, such as: 
Group discussions, experiments, practical tasks, problem-solving, quizzes etc. This is opposed to passive experiences where information is passed from lecturer to learner with minimal or no learner participation.  

Active listening 

A communication skill where the listener seeks to understand the meaning and intent behind a person's words and where applicable, act on them. 

ADDIE 

Design framework that informs a 5 stage, linear process for the design of digital learning resources. Analysis, design, development, implementation and evaluation.

Adult learning theory 

The study of how adults learn. Based on the theory that adults learn differently from children. 

Analytics

The patterns and other meaningful information gathered from the study of data.

Animation or animated videos 

Animated videos use computer generated characters and environments. 

Andragogy 

The theory and practice of adult education.

Artificial intelligence (AI)

A machine’s ability to perform a task that would have previously required human input.

Assessment and feedback principles 

Summary of educational values relating to the facilitation of assessment and feedback. Act as a guide for the design of learning and teaching assessment. 

Assessment methods 

The way an educational programme measures learner progress and learning outcome achievement. Methods include formative (informal) and summative (formal) assessment. 

Assessment rubric 

A framework for setting out assessment expectations by listing criteria and levels of performance quality. 

Asynchronous Learning

Accessed at a time suited to the learner. Delivery is not live. Examples include videos, webinar recordings, podcasts, eLearning modules. 

Audio description

An audible alternative for on-screen visual content. Audio description is a concise narration that explains visual information.

• It conveys important details such as images, on-screen text, actions, scene changes and facial expressions that are not communicated through dialogue or sound alone. 
• Descriptions can include contextual information about the visual to increase understanding. 
• Audio description can be added into audio gaps on soundtracks or provided in a separate file.

Audio description file

A separate or integrated audio soundtrack that provides spoken narration describing key visual elements necessary for understanding in a video or animation. 

Audio description file (extended)

Extended audio description files are made when there is no space on the soundtrack to add audio description. 

• A new version of the video is recorded. 
• Visuals are paused while audio description is added into the soundtrack. 

This creates a resource with the necessary audio description, synchronised to the visual contents.

Augmented reality

An enhanced image or environment as viewed on a screen or other display, produced by overlaying computer-generated images, sounds, or other data on a real-world environment. 

Authentic practice

Learning activity that replicates a real-life task. 

Autonomous learner

An individual who directs their own learning and can work independently. Learner leads decision-making and identifying their learning needs. 

Auto-generated captions

Auto-generated text from audio speech or singing. Auto-captions are created by platform software using speech recognition technology or artificial intelligence (AI). Platforms may refer to these captions as transcription. This is because they are transcribed from the audio soundtrack. Auto-generated content should be manually edited for accuracy.

Behaviourism

Behaviourism looks at learning that is achieved when expected behaviours are observed. This may include being asked to list information or demonstrate tasks. If you perform the task in the desired way, you will be rewarded for example, with a passing grade. If you do not perform in the correct way, there will be consequences, such as failing the course.  

Bias

In the context of artificial intelligence (AI). Bias is when the AI model reflects unfair or unbalanced patterns from the data it was trained on.

Bite-sized learning

Instructional strategy designed to support learners manage cognitive load. It consists of small, manageable 'chunks' of learning focussed on a single concept or the achievement of a specific learning outcome. It is important bite-sized learning does not just condense the same material into a shorter timeframe. It can be delivered using a range of digital and non-digital methods. The term Microlearning is specific to digital delivery.

Blended learning

Blended learning is a combination of delivery methods such as asynchronous and synchronous. It can also mix in-person and online. A typical format may be the combination of live (synchronous) sessions, digital learning resources (asynchronous) and independent study.

Blog

Derives from the word weblog. A blog is a web page or site with chronological and regular posts on specific topics, updates or experiences.

Bloom's Taxonomy

A classification system used to define and distinguish different levels of thinking skills. Provides action words for the creation of learning outcomes.

BOOST feedback model

Feedback structure used to encourage constructive and continuous feedback.  BOOST stands for balanced, objective, observed, specific and timely. 

Brainstorm

A creative exercise for generating ideas and solving problems. Usually performed by groups in a spontaneous, informal discussion. All ideas are noted without judgement.

Brand and corporate identity

Set of rules outlining acceptable use of the NES logo along with suitable fonts, colours and images. All materials produced by NES must adhere to the brand standards for continuity of design and to ensure accessibility standards are met.

Breakout room

Additional learning spaces for arranging learners into smaller groups away from the main learning room.

Captions

A text version of sound. Used as an alternative to speech or singing on audio soundtracks. Captions are displayed on-screen and provide:

• Accurate written representation of the audio, including filler words. 
• Information about non-speech elements, such as music or environmental sounds.
• Interpretive information about tone or atmosphere to increase understanding. Interpretive information is highlighted in brackets to show it is not part of the original audio.

Captions should be controlled by the user. These are known as closed captions.

Captioning

The process of adding captions to a resource. This process can be manual, auto-generated or a mixture of both.

Chunking strategies

Breaking learning down into manageable sections to support learners manage cognitive load.

Clinical assessment

On site, practical assessments of healthcare performance. Linked to competency-based frameworks and professional standards.

Closed captions

Captions that are controlled by users from the media's platform. . 

• Individuals can switch caption text on or off without affecting other users' settings. 
• Platforms may offer additional controls, including size and colour of captions and backgrounds. 
• Closed captions are used for all NES resources. Other caption styles such as ‘open’ are not appropriate.

Cognition

The mental action or process of receiving knowledge and understanding through thought, experience, and the senses. The process of thinking.

Cognitive load

The amount of information working memory can hold at any one time.

Cognitive load theory

Cognitive load theory explains how information processing (learning) is impacted by learning resource design. 

Cognitive overload

Imposing more information onto a learner's working memory than it can handle. This means the working memory becomes overwhelmed and will have difficulty processing any information.

Cognitivism

A learning theory that focuses on how information is received, organised, stored and retrieved by the mind.  It looks beyond observable behaviour, viewing learning as internal mental processes.

Community of educators

Private Microsoft channel within the NES TEL Knowledge sharing network. A community for educators to explore using technology for learning.

Community of inquiry framework

A theoretical framework which represents a process of creating a deep and meaningful learning experience through the development of social, cognitive and teaching presence in learning environments.

Community of practice

A group of people who share an interest or have a common goal. Communities share knowledge and learn from each other.

Continuous improvement

The ongoing process of improving a learning resource. For example, using data from evaluation to inform improvements to an eLearning module.

Connectivism

Learning theory which considers how we learn in a digital age. Digital learning creates new ways of sharing that influence how we learn.

Constructivism

A learning theory based on the idea that people actively construct or make their own knowledge, and that reality is determined by your experiences as a learner.  Learners use their previous knowledge as a foundation and build on it with new things they learn.

Content creator

Person who develops the learning content in a resource. For example, someone who makes a video or creates a guidance document.

Continuous improvement

The ongoing process of improving a learning resource. For example, using data from evaluation to inform improvements to an eLearning module.

Copyright

Copyright is a legal, intellectual property right. In the UK, it is automatically applied when someone creates a piece of work such as a textbook, artwork, or music. It provides the creator with legal rights and protection should someone attempt to exploit their product. Copyright infringement is when protected work has been used without the creator’s permission. Copyright does not cover ideas; only the products expressing the ideas.

CPD

Continual professional development. Learning undertaken to maintain knowledge and skills relating to a professional role. This is an ongoing process.

Crib sheet

A document or list of instructions to help someone remember something.

Critical thinking

Critical thinking is when the information we are given is not accepted at face value. Instead, a critical thinker will apply logic and reasoning to question and challenge their own and other's knowledge. Critical thinkers will seek evidence to inform their thinking and are open to changing their views when they are presented with new evidence.

Data

Information. Facts or pieces of information.

Delivery mode

How a learning resource will be delivered to learners, e.g. asynchronously (accessed in their own time), synchronously (In real time / live) or blended (a combination of asynchronous and synchronous).

Design model

A method, process or framework that provides a structure when designing digital learning. For example, ADDIE, SAM, Agile approach.

Developer

Creates and builds resources. Roles include:

• Building e-learning modules
• Creating learning materials such as job aids, videos, podcasts, presentations etc.
• Ensuring compliance with branding and legal standards.
• Preparing resources for pilot testing. 

Digital accessibility

As many learners as possible can perceive, understand, navigate, and interact with the technology you use to deliver learning.

Digital learning

Learning delivered and supported by technology.

Digital learning preference

The learner's favoured digital resource or method for learning. For example:

• A learner may prefer podcasts to a written piece of work.
• Learners may prefer asynchronous resources to live presentations

Digital learning resource

Any learning material created and facilitated electronically. Any learning material designed, created and hosted using technology. Examples include, slide decks, interactive documents, video, eLearning modules, discussion forums, podcasts, infographics, apps, and blogs.

Direct instruction (di)

Teaching strategy developed by Barak Rosenshine. It offers a 6-step approach and an accompanying set of principles to support educators delivering explicit instruction. In comparison to DI, this method is less prescriptive in terms of scripting the educator's approach.

Directed assessment

Assessment of learning set and graded by an educator or educational organisation.

Discussion forum

A forum, or message board, is an online discussion site where people can hold conversations in the form of posted messages. 

Educational barriers

Any factor that prevents learners from accessing and engaging with learning content. For example, learners living with low vision who cannot see a video.

Educator

A professional who plans and directs learning. 

A teacher.

eLearning module

An interactive, multimedia digital learning resource hosted online. Learners can access these modules in their own time (asynchronous)

Evaluation

Process of assessing the effectiveness of learning resources. Works best as a continuous process to ensure regular improvement

Evidence-based

Widely accepted information based on scientific, objective evidence. Evidence-based approaches incorporate the most credible research, the expertise of practitioners, and end-user preferences.

Evidence-informed

The use of scientific evidence to make informed decisions. Acknowledges what works in one context, may not extend to similar contexts. Recognises complexities and variations of learning environments. 

Exit ticket whiteboard

A method of informal evaluation. Learners are given access to a whiteboard containing questions for them to answer at the end a lesson. Questions typically prompt them to think about what they have learned, what they found difficult, how they feel about the learning, and if they have feedback about the facilitation of the experience.

Experiential learning

Learning achieved through real world experiences.

Experiential learning theory

Psychological learning theory, which states learning is achieved through our experiences. Our experiences are shaped by cognition, environment and emotions.

Explicit instruction

Teaching in a direct and structured way. Learners are given full and clear instruction.

External stakeholder

Individuals, groups and organisations who have a common interest in your business

Facilitation

A broad term used to describe the process of moderating, supporting or leading learning. For example, a facilitator may:

• Moderate by guiding learners during discussions, workshops, practice, labs and problem-based scenarios.
• Support by providing appropriate learning environments, resources and feedback
• Lead learning by delivering instructions, lectures and assessment methods

These are not exhaustive examples.

Facilitator

A person who supports and guides learners within the learning environment

Fillers or filler words

Extra words or sounds in narration. Examples are: ‘so’, ‘um’, ‘er’ or a repetitive sound like a sniff. Also known as ‘incidentals’.

Fine-tuning

Used in the context of artificial intelligence (AI). Refers to adjusting a pre-trained AI model on a smaller, specific dataset to specialise it for certain tasks.

Flipped classroom

New material is studied asynchronously prior to attending a synchronous group session. The synchronous session is then used to explore and practice the learning material. This is an example of a blended learning environment. 

Formative assessment

Refers to a wide variety of methods used to measure learners’ comprehension, learning needs and progress during a lesson, unit or course. Informal assessment

Forms (Microsoft)

Web-based app for creating online surveys, quizzes and polls.

Forum

A forum, or message board, is an online discussion site where people can hold conversations in the form of posted messages. 

Gaming

Strategic attempt to enhance learning activities by creating similar experiences to those experienced when playing games to motivate and engage user.

Generative artificial intelligence (AI)

A type of AI that can create new content, like text, images, music, or code, based on patterns it has learned from datasets. Generative AI includes NLP and LLM based models. ChatGPT and CoPilot are examples of generative AI systems in action. Also referred to as GenAI, or GAI.

Glossary

A list explaining the meaning of words or terms.

GPT

An abbreviation of generative pre-trained transformer. Used in ChatGPT.

Guided practice

An instructional method. A step process for practising new learning tasks. The educator is a significant presence until the learner becomes competent at the task. For example:

1. Educator demonstrates a task
2. Educator and learner work together on the task
3. Learners attempt the tasks themselves

Graphics

Pertaining to imagery. 

Hallucination

Created when an artificial intelligence (AI) model produces information that appears correct but is false. This happens in generative AI and language models as the AI 'guesses' or combines information in an attempt to answer your prompt. 

An example is a believable quote from a book that does not exist in the original book source.

Humanism

A theory that states learning is viewed as a personal act to fulfil one's potential.

Hybrid learning

In-person and online learners attend the same live (synchronous) event. 

Hyperlink

An icon, graphic or text that connects a person to another file or webpage.

Ice breaker

An activity designed to welcome and engage learners.

Immersive experience

The perception of being physically present in a digital environment.

Impairment

Impairment is a medical term that has been widely adopted. It is a value-laden term and may not be appreciated or acceptable to individuals with conditions.

Implementation

The process of putting a plan into action. In Get Set to Deliver, this refers to preparing learning resources to go live with learners.

Improvement needs

Opportunity for the improvement of a system, process or resource.

Incidentals

Extra words or sounds in narration. Examples are: ‘so’, ‘um’, ‘er’ or a repetitive sound like a sniff. Also known as ‘fillers’ or filler words.

Inclusive education

A teaching model which places fair and equal value on the rights of all learners. Learners have the right to access and experience quality education, free from discrimination. 

Inclusive learning

An environment all learners have equal access and opportunities to learn.

Interactive document

A document that allows you to incorporate media such as visual weblinks, videos, audio, GIFs, files, and other documents. Microsoft Sway can create an interactive document.

Interactive video

A video that allows users to interact with content on the screen. Interaction could be, to answer a question, choose an option or select a link.

Independent practice

Following instruction from an educator, the learner performs a task on their own. This allows them to demonstrate their learning. The educator role in independent practice is facilitator only.

Indirect instruction

Learner-lead instructional strategy. Facilitators provide the tools for learners to guide their own learning and engage with independent practice. An example is problem-based learning.

Infographic

Graphic, visual representations of information, data, or knowledge intended to present information quickly and clearly.

In-person learning

Learning environment where participants attend face to face in a physical space. Not online.

Instructional design

The practice of designing, developing and delivering learning using a consistent and specific structure.

Instructional strategies

The techniques a facilitator will use to support learning in synchronous and blended learning environments. 

Instructional video

Instructional videos are used to demonstrate practical skills.

Interactive document

A document that allows you to incorporate media such as visual weblinks, videos, audio, GIFs, files, and other documents. Microsoft Sway can create an interactive document.

Interactive tools

Online tools used to increase learner activity, progress, collaboration and engagement. Examples are polls, breakout rooms and whiteboards.

Interactive video

Interactive video allows users to interact with the screen. This could be to answer questions, choose an option or click on links. 

Interpersonal skills

Methods of effectively communicating, connecting and interacting with other people. People skills.

Interleaving

A learning strategy. The learner overlaps the practice of one topic with others

Job aids

Simple, clear instructions on how to carry out a procedure at work. 

Kirkpatrick model of evaluation

Four level model used to evaluate and analyse the efficacy of learning programmes.

Kolb's cycle

Four stage model which focuses on the sequence of learning through interactions with real life experiences.

• Concrete experience. Having the actual experience.
• Reflective observation. Reviewing the experience. 
• Abstract conceptualisation. Learning from the experience.
• Active experimentation. Testing or implementing what has been learned.

Labs

A learning approach where learners gain first-hand experience by practising. Effective means for authentic problem-solving.

Large language model (LLM)

An artificial intelligence (AI) model trained to understand and generate human-like language by applying algorithms to vast amounts of text data.

Learner-centred

The learner, not the educator, is the focus of the learning environment. Learners are encouraged to take ownership of their learning, and resources are designed to meet their specific needs and abilities.

Learner guide

Informative handbook to provide new learners with information on learning content, access, contacts, expectations and policy. 

Learner pathway

A map of learning resources on which learners can personalise their journey by choosing the components most relevant to their goals. Example learner pathways are available in the 'Support learners to personalise their learning journey' section of the Ideas for learning Turas page

Learner profile

Learner profiles are a visual representation of a group of learners. The information to create a profile is from gathered information that is analysed to learn more about your target audience. This will help you address your own assumptions about their needs and maintain a learner-centred focus. 

Learner support

Used to identify the interconnecting structures that affect a learner's participation in learning.

Learning activity

Activity that supports learners to practice using learning material.

Activities may include: 

• Scenario-based problem-solving 
• Engaging with forums, live discussions, or blogs 
• Portfolio building 
• Question and Answers
• Simulated practice

Learning aids

Resources that support main learning resources. These can be used to provide alternative formats, reinforce key points and aid in study. Examples are documents, infographics and podcasts.

Learning community

Group of people with shared learning goals who collaborate and connect with one another

Learning content

Topics, themes, beliefs, behaviours, concepts and facts. Often grouped into subject matters to be learned. These form the basis of teaching and learning.

Learning environment

Any space where learning takes place. 

Learning experience

Any type of experience designed to support learning. Acknowledges learners will perceive the learning differently from each other depending on their involvement, previous learning and values.

Learning experience designer

The architect of the design process. This role includes:

•        Leading the analysis, planning and design of the resource.

•        Mapping the learning experience from the content provided by the SME.

•        Ensuring the resource is learner-centred, evidence informed and meets the needs of business and learners.

Learning gap

A learning gap is the difference between the learner’s current skill set and the desired skill set. 

Learning impact

The evidence that learning has lead to organisational change.

Learning management system

A digital platform used for the administration, documentation, tracking, reporting, and delivery of educational resources. For example, Turas Learn and Moodle.

Learning or learner needs

The needs of a learner represent a gap between what a learner wants to get out of the learning experiences and their current state of knowledge and skills.

Learning outcomes

Measurable statements of what a learner should be able to do because of learning.

Learning platform

A digital space to host learning content. For example, Teams, Turas Learn, Moodle.

Learning resource

Any materials that contribute to a learning process. This is an umbrella term used to describe any single resource or full programmes of learning.

Learning strategies

Evidence-informed techniques used by facilitators and learners to optimise learning achievement.

Learning support

Additional support to assist students who may have difficulties achieving their learning goals.  The need for additional support may include:

• General study skills
• Subject support
• Support for learners with disabilities, learning difficulties or medical conditions
• Reasonable adjustment

Learning theory

Learning theories are intended to help us understand how people process and retain knowledge. Examples include behavioural, cognitive, constructivist, humanist, social and experiential. 

Lecture

Educational talk or presentation to an audience.

Long-term memory

Process of the brain. A vast, complex landscape for storing existing knowledge. 

Macro

Large in scale.

Machine learning

Artificial intelligence (AI) that creates algorithms and models to allow computers to learn from raw data. The focus is for computers to improve at tasks over time without being programmed or told how to perform.

Media

A means of communication. For example, video, podcast, Sway documents.

Microlearning

Short bursts of digital learning focussed on essential components of a specific concept, skill, idea or topic. Designed to support learners manage cognitive load which means it is generally short duration.

Mind map

A diagram the user creates to visually organise information. These often form hierarchies and relationships among the information. They are helpful for simplifying complex information.

Mixed reality

A blend of the real-world environment and computer-generated content viewed on a screen or other display, in which the virtual content and the physical environment coexist and react to each other in real time.

Model of inclusive education

Used to identify the interconnecting structures that affect a learner's participation in learning.

Module

A specific unit of learning. Often part of a fuller programme of learning resources.

Multimedia

A combination of different communication methods such as text, audio, images, animation or video arranged into a single interactive resource. For example, eLearning modules.

Multimedia principles

A set of evidence-based instructions for the effective design of digital learning resources. Research has shown the principles support the creation of resources that respond to how learners learn.  The types of resources include presentations, videos, e-Learning modules, and interactive documents.

Naming convention

Agreed general rules for naming learning resources in a specific way.

Nanolearning

Derives from microlearning but delivers even smaller components. It is the digital delivery of informal, highly targeted, ultra short bursts of learning. Examples may include reminders, study flashcards, games, quick tips, job aids and social media posts. 

Natural language processing (NLP)

Artificial intelligence (AI) system focused on helping machines understand, interpret, and respond to natural human language. NLPs combine computer analysis with machine learning models to generate appropriate text and speech responses to our interactions.

Examples include filters, smart assistants, predictive text, translations, and data analysis. 

NES

NHS Education for Scotland.

Nudge video

Nudge videos are calls to action or challenges to change behaviour. These are good for promotion.

Online learning

Learning that takes place in an online environment. This can be:

• Asynchronous where the learner can access learning materials at a time of their choosing or
• Synchronous where learners meet face to face in an online environment such as Teams

Open captions

Captions which are permanently displayed on-screen. The user has no control. Also known as 'burned in' or 'always-on-top'. This caption style is not acceptable for NES resources, as it is not an accessible or user-friendly practice. 

Passive learning

Information is passed from teacher to learner. Learner has minimal participation in the process.

PDF

Portable document format. PDFs use a standard format that can be viewed on any platform. Information will remain in the same format the creator intended.

PDSA model

Plan, Do, Study, Act cycle for improvement. A model which supports the systematic process for the continual improvement of products, processes and services.

Peer learning

Learning environment where learners share ideas and learn from each other.

Peer review

The process of reviewing or evaluating the work of others with similar competencies to yours. For example, learners within the same programme reviewing each other's work and providing feedback.

Pilot (testing)

In the context of learning, pilot testing is performed by a group of end-users (your learners) to ensure the learning resources you create meet the learner's needs. Best practice is to observe testers using the resource. The testers will feed back on their experience. This will allow you to correct any errors prior to publication.

Plagiarism

Plagiarism is when a person does not acknowledge they have used someone else’s ideas or work to create their own. 

Podcast

Digital audio or video files of spoken word or audio episodes focussed on a particular topic or theme. Podcast hosting websites and apps such as Spotify, Soundcloud, Google and Apple offer flexibility to listen online or download the content to your own digital device so you can listen wherever and whenever you like.  

Polls

Traditionally a means of gathering votes. Examples of online polling software are Microsoft Polls and Slido. Common interaction formats are multiple choice, quiz, word cloud, ratings, and ranking question sets.

Portfolio

A collection of learner's work that showcases evidence of their learning achievement (effort, progress, knowledge, skills and competencies)

Portfolio building

Gathering evidence to demonstrate competency

Practical inquiry

A model for supporting learners to think critically. It begins with the presentation of a discussion topic, question or problem. Learners are then guided to collaborate and explore:

• New information
• The integration of new ideas
• Potential solutions to the problem. 

Practice-based learning

Learning and placement in an authentic workplace setting.

Pre-learning questionnaire

Questionnaire distributed to learners prior to learning to establish their learning needs.

Problem-based learning

A structured technique whereby small groups of learners work together to solve real life problems.

Professional portfolio

A digital space on Turas to upload, collect and share evidence of work.

Professional regulator

An organisation that operates in line with legislation to regulate a profession. Functions include: 

• Making sure professionals have the necessary qualifications and/or experience. 
• Professional registration 
• Setting professional standards
• Investigating complaints and fitness to practice

Examples of professional regulators: General Dental Council, General Medical Council, The Nursing and Midwifery Council, General Pharmaceutical Council.

Programme planner

A framework to support learning designers to plan an overview of a full programme of learning.

Programme prospectus

A description of a programme of learning. Often given to potential learners to promote the learning and offer more information.

Project-based learning

Directs individual or small groups of learners to work for an extended period to develop solutions for authentic problems or challenges. 

Project manager

Co-ordinate the overall design process. Roles include: 

• Managing the design and development process 
• Management of budgets 
• Ensuring each stage is delivered on time 
• Maintaining contact with relevant stakeholders 
• Confirming team member roles 
• Managing the implementation of the learning resource

Prompt

An input given to a generative artificial intelligence (AI) model to guide its response. Prompts are phrased as a question, request, or instruction. Successful prompts include:

• Instruction: the specific task or instruction you want the model to perform
• Context: external information or additional context that steers the model to better responses
• Input data: the input source or question that is desired to be answered
• Output indicator: the type or format of the output.

For example:

'Write an email response from the Survey Committee Chair, using a formal style with a friendly tone, to thank Mr Davies for his paper and invite him to present his findings at the Analysis debrief meeting on the first Thursday in April'.

Psychological learning theory

Learning theories are intended to help us understand how people process and retain knowledge. Examples include behavioural, cognitive, constructivist, humanist, social and  experiential

Questback

A feedback platform for collecting and supporting the analysis of data.

Reflective practice

Any activity where a learner can think about their learning or performance and critically analyse their competency.

Resource rollout planner

An Excel workbook that provides a structure to prepare learning resources for rollout to learners.

Response

Output created or returned from generative artificial intelligence (AI) in response to a prompt or input instruction. This could be text, an image, a summary, code, music, or other content. 

Retrieval practice

Learning strategy. Learners recall information by testing self or with others.

Rollout

Official launch or publication of a resource.

SAM

Successive Approximation Model. A design framework that informs a flexible process for the design of digital learning resources.

Scaffolding

Layered support for learning. Layers of support are removed as the learner becomes more competent or confident. Similar concept as guided practice.

Learning strategy. Learners recall information by testing self or with others.

Scenario-based problem-solving

Learners are presented with an authentic scenario and are asked to solve the problem. They are required to utilise critical and analytical skills to work through the problem. Identify problem, brainstorm, critically analyse potential solutions and implement solutions.

Screencast

Also called a screen recording. A video recording of a computer screen. Often used to provide instructions of how to complete an online task.

Self-assessment

Learner uses tools to assess their own learning progress.

Self-assessment tool

A test, method or activity learners can use to assess their own skill set, progress or achievement.  

Self-directed learner

Those who can identify their own learning needs, set their own goals and independently prepare for and complete their own learning.

Session and resource planner

More traditionally called a lesson planner. A framework for mapping the content details of single modules of learning.

Simulation or simulated practice

A representation of a real environment where learners can safely demonstrate performance.

Slide deck

Individual slides, frames or screens that are grouped together to support a presentation. The name derives from the similarity to a deck of cards.

Small Language model (SLM)

An artificial intelligence (AI) model that is either

• Trained and operated on a restricted dataset, or
• Designed for outputs to specific asks or for efficiency. SLMs can generate flexible and timely responses to specific language tasks.

Social learning

Learning with and by observing others.

Social learning theory

Learning theory that states we learn by observing and imitating others.

Software

A generic term used to refer to applications and programs that run on a device. A set of instructions, data or programs used to operate computers and execute specific tasks. (Hardware, which describes the physical aspects of a computer)

Spaced practice

Learning strategy. Practice is broken up into short sessions over a period of time. Also known as distributed practice.

Stakeholders

Individuals, groups and organisations who have a common interest in your business.

Storyboard

A planning tool used to map the content of your videos, animations and eLearning modules. Acts as a script to inform developers.

Subject-matter expert (SME)

Has specialist knowledge and skills relating to the content of the resource. They may not have an educational background. Roles include:

• Supporting the designer with the necessary content and learning goals
• Reviewing accuracy
• Participating in pilots 

Subtitles

A text version of audio sound. Subtitles provide translation of spoken words from one language to another.

• Subtitles may not be as accurate as captions. Dialogue substitution is often required with translations. 
• Subtitles display the spoken audio, with little or no additional, non-speech sound information. 

Summative assessment

Evaluates the learner's knowledge and skill at the end of a module of learning by comparing it against a standard or benchmark. Graded formal assessment.

Sway

A Microsoft resource for creating live, interactive reports and presentations.

Syllabus

The specification of a learning course. Sets out content and expectations.

Synchronous

Learning in real time with other learners. A live session online or in-person.

Talking head video

A video where someone talks directly to the camera.

Teacher-centred approach

Class activity is centred on the educator. Lectures are teacher centred.

Teaching model

Methods of teaching. Provide instruction and planning to help teachers direct learning environments.

Teaching presence

The level of direction and instruction a facilitator or educator makes available to learners.

Technology enhanced learning (TEL)

The use of any technology that improves the learning experience.

TEL

Technology enhanced learning.

TEL Design programme

A programme of six modules aimed at those who design and develop digital learning. The modules will support the creation of digital learning resources using evidence-informed approaches.

TEL Facilitation programme

A programme of six modules aimed at those who design and facilitate synchronous (live) and blended learning. The modules will support the design and delivery of learning in these environments using evidence-informed approaches. 

Tester

Role in the design process of digital learning resources. Roles include:

• Technical testing to ensure the resource works (often the role of the Developer) 
• Facilitating pilot testing prior to roll out 
• Arranging evaluation to assess learner experience.  

Three stage release process

A method used to prepare learning resources for rollout. Its purpose is to facilitate multiple opportunities for testing, feedback, and improvement before you roll out resources to learners.

• The first stage is to conduct a content review with creators, contributors, and stakeholders.
• The second stage is to pilot test the resource with target learners.
• The third stage is to carry out final checks. Confirm learning support documents, learning platforms, and booking systems are ready. Confirm team roles. 

Training data

Used in the context of artificial intelligence (AI). Refers to the text, image or audio information that an AI model learns from during its training phase.

Transcript

A readable, downloadable text-based version of audio and/or image description. Transcripts are provided as a separate resource. WCAG define two styles for transcripts, basic and descriptive. Most NES transcripts will be descriptive.

Basic transcripts 

Are an accurate text version of all sound (including non-speech sounds) needed to understand content. A separate transcript that is readable and downloadable should be provided with media, including video, audio, animation, podcasts or gifs. Alternative text may be enough for gif content. 

Descriptive transcripts 

Provide an accurate text version of all sound and any additional information or description needed for users to understand the essential content of the media. This can include a description of visuals and contextual information if this is missing or needed to support the audio narration, hyperlinks mentioned in the audio, appendices with full descriptions of graphs or charts. 

Transformative learning theory

Learning theory. Learning that changes the way we view the world. Achieved when we critically reflect and challenge our own assumptions and beliefs.

Trauma-informed practice

Grounded in the understanding that trauma experience can impact an individual’s neurological, biological, psychological and social development. Being trauma informed means you have an awareness of how trauma can impact a person's ability to feel safe or develop trusting relationships. In learning, people learn better when they feel safe in the learning environment and with their peers. They will be more open to innovative ideas, reflective practice and trying out new things. 

Turas

Turas is the primary environment for hosting NES’ asynchronous resources. 

Turas Learn

A NES course booking system and eLearning hosting website. Learning management system.

Turas style guide

NES web-based guide which covers everything from accessibility to user experience (UX) design and will support consistency across all digital applications. It was developed in-house using evidence, expertise and industry best practice. 

Tutor

A person who instructs another in a branch of learning

Universal design for learning (UDL)

A set of principles. Supports educators in the creation of flexible learning resources for as many people as possible. Links to Inclusive education and digital accessibility aims.

User experience (UX)

How a person interacts and experiences a product in relation to ease of use and efficiency.

Process used by design teams to make products that are meaningful to users.

User experience Honeycomb

UX framework for evaluating products through seven aspects of effective user-centred design (valuable, useful, desirable, accessible, credible, findable and usable).

Virtual reality

A realistic and immersive computer simulation of a three-dimensional environment. Created using interactive software and hardware, and experienced or controlled by movement of the body.

Web content accessibility guidelines (WCAG)

Internationally recognised set of recommendations for improving web accessibility. As a public body, NHS Scotland must comply with WCAG 2.2 to AA standard.

Whiteboard (online)

An interactive display screen that is connected to a computer and allows for viewing, input, and collaboration by multiple users:

Wiki

A wiki is a webpage or series of web pages that can be easily edited in real time.  Wikipedia is the most famous example. 

Worked example

Observing someone else carry out a task before the learner attempts it themselves. Step-by-step demonstrations are a type of worked example. Breaking the demonstrated task into key steps is important, especially when it is new or complex information. Research suggests worked examples are more effective than a written or verbal instruction. When a task is complex or new to the learner, worked examples reduce cognitive load. 

Working memory

Process of the brain. A limited, temporary hold for receiving and processing new information

Workshops

A seminar, discussion group, or the like, that promotes the exchange of ideas and the demonstration and application of techniques and skills.

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