Developing
Curriculum Development Overview
Choose the appropriate development approach based on your curriculum needs. Both approaches follow the Per Scholas simulation-based instructional model but differ in their starting point and adaptation process.
- Custom Development: Building curriculum from scratch.
- Vendor Adaptation: Modifying existing third-party content.
- Both approaches prioritize simulation-based learning and workplace relevance.
Choosing the Right Approach
Choose Custom Development When:
- No suitable vendor content exists.
- Content needs to be highly specialized.
- Complete control over learning sequence is required.
- Time and resources for full development are available.
Choose Vendor Adaptation When:
- High-quality vendor content is available.
- Time to market is a priority.
- Content covers standard technical topics.
- Resources for full development are limited.
Custom Development
Create new curriculum from scratch, with full control over content, simulation design, and delivery.
- New program development.
- Unique industry requirements.
- Specialized learning outcomes.
- Full customization needs.
Vendor Curriculum Integration
Adapt and enhance existing vendor content to meet Per Scholas standards and integrate into our simulation model.
- Industry-certified content.
- Vendor partnerships.
- Rapid deployment needs.
- Standardized certifications.
Shared Development Standards
Standards and Guidelines
Content Style
- Use clear, concise language and active voice.
- Maintain consistent formatting for headings, lists, and code.
- Break content into digestible sections with meaningful titles.
- Use real-world examples and scenarios wherever possible.
Accessibility
- Ensure all images have descriptive alt text.
- Use high-contrast colors and readable fonts.
- Provide captions or transcripts for multimedia.
- Design activities for a range of abilities and backgrounds.
Quality Review
- Peer review all new content before release.
- Check for alignment with objectives and simulation context.
- Test all activities and assessments for clarity and function.
- Document and address all feedback and revisions.
Tools & Best Practices
Development Tools & Tips
Module Template Guidance
- Start each module with a clear overview and objectives.
- Include a mix of knowledge checks, hands-on activities, and reflection prompts.
- End with a summary and next steps or further resources.
- Use consistent formatting for all modules.
Lab Development Tips
- Design labs to mirror real workplace tasks and scenarios.
- Provide clear instructions and expected outcomes.
- Include troubleshooting guidance and common pitfalls.
- Encourage collaboration and peer review.
Assessment Building
- Align all assessments with learning objectives and simulation context.
- Use a variety of formats (multiple choice, short answer, project-based).
- Provide rubrics for transparent grading and feedback.
- Review and update assessments based on learner performance data.
Support
Need support with curriculum development?
- Join our weekly curriculum development sync.
- Schedule a development consultation with an instructional lead.
- Access development templates and examples from our resource library.
- Review past projects in our documentation.
- Connect with other curriculum developers.
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