Problem

The objective of this product development project was to create a scalable Learning Management System (LMS) for Ascendigo Autism Services, centered around the Ascendigo Method curriculum development. The goal was to transition from a static and overwhelming pdf document to an interactive online course platform that caters to different learner categories, including direct service providers, ski instructors, first responders, and parents of autistic children.

The main focus was on delivering a modern, interactive, and cost-effective solution that would allow learners to choose specific courses relevant to their needs while also offering an Ascendigo Method certification upon completion.

Challenges:

Content Overload: The existing pdf document was extensive, making it challenging for learners to digest all the information. The new product needed to present the content in a more manageable and structured manner.
Limited Reach: The printed manual had limited accessibility due to printing constraints. The new LMS aimed to overcome this limitation and provide broader access to the curriculum.

As a contracted product developer, my responsibility was to research industry and market standards, perform a comprehensive cost analysis, explore suitable technologies, and devise a product roadmap for the LMS development.

Solution

The envisioned solution was a feature-rich, interactive, and scalable LMS that would allow learners to access specific courses tailored to their interests and needs. Key components of the product development process included:

Content Structuring: The curriculum content would be restructured into modular courses that cater to different target audiences, ensuring learners can focus on relevant materials.
Interactive Elements: To enhance engagement, interactive elements like quizzes, simulations, and multimedia would be integrated into the courses, creating a dynamic learning experience.
Pay-as-You-Go Model: The LMS would adopt a 'pay for what you need' model, allowing learners to select individual courses or series of courses based on their requirements, optimizing cost-effectiveness.
Certification Program: A comprehensive certification program would be designed, enabling learners to obtain an Ascendigo Method certification upon completing specific courses.
Scalable Architecture: The LMS would be built on a scalable infrastructure to accommodate a growing number of users and course offerings over time.
User-friendly Interface: A user-friendly interface would be designed to ensure easy navigation and accessibility for all types of learners.

See the final Learning Management System Here

Impact

By transforming the traditional curriculum into an interactive and personalized online learning experience, Ascendigo Autism Services could significantly expand the reach of the Ascendigo Method. Learners would benefit from a more engaging and flexible approach to education, while the organization could offer tailored courses and certifications, promoting their mission in supporting autistic individuals and those who care for them.

Team

Karen Burkhart- Consultant
- Designed and developed the product roadmap.
- Developed a preliminary curriculum map, ROI, and prototyped the LMS
Dianna Kistler -Developer (Full time employee)
- Gathered and organized course materials from instructors.
- Categorized resources for easy navigation on the site.
- Developed the curriculum learning modules.
- Built the final version of the LMS.
Mathew McCabe- Subject Matter Expert

Roadmapping: B2C and B2B Academy for Autism Direct Service Providers