proposal -...

Production Guide forDevelopment of Online Learning

Revised June 2018

Prepared forTraining, Orientation, Public Awareness, &

Academic Program Applications

June 2018

Full Circle Studios, LLC710 Main Street

Buffalo, NY 14202-1915

All ideas, designs, and rates included in this proposal are the intellectual property of Full Circle Studios, LLC. They were created and developed for this specific proposal only. This document,

in whole or in part, may not be shared with any company or organization other than the original intended recipient without the written consent of Full Circle Studios, LLC.

Rationale for Using Online Courses

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Proposal: Online Education GuidePrepared for Potential Course DevelopmentJune 14, 2018 of 16

There are many thoughtful, well-researched, and intellectually sound reasons to use online courses in practically any business, industrial, or academic setting. The following are a brief overview of expert opinions on the effectiveness of such an approach to learning.

“I’ve often thought that self-pacing through content is truly helpful for students. I tend to believe that with time and effort, most people can successfully learn whatever they want. However, students that fall behind in onsite lectures are typically left behind. Online courses and equivalent approaches, like active learning platforms, allow self pacing to prevent this very nicely. This even helps in flipped onsite courses, since, even though there’s a fixed time via the semester format, students don’t fall behind during lectures. The two most often raised benefits for having videos is the ability to rewatch parts that are difficult for the student and the ability to speed through parts that are easy or obvious.”

- Brian Caffo, professor of BiostatisticsJohns Hopkins University

on Coursera Blog June 2017

“The current challenges facing traditional colleges and universities, including higher tuition, budget cuts, and course shortages, have caused many students to search for alternatives. With nearly three million students currently enrolled in fully online degree programs, and six million taking at least one online course as part of their degree program, online education has clearly become one of the most popular higher education alternatives The continually improving reputation of online learning has also helped fuel its expansion, as initial skepticism has faltered in the face of evidence that shows that online learning can be just as effective as face-to-face education.”

- Open Education Database (OEDb)June 2018

“And there is a perhaps more prosaic, but nonetheless extremely important reason for fully embracing the possibilities of digital education: the international reach it can offer. In the three short years that we have been running MOOCs we have engaged with over a quarter of a million students worldwide. Over that same time we have touched around 13,000 students through our campus degrees. We are opening up opportunities in regions that have been neglected until now: a fifth of the applicants for our new online Master are from Africa. They too deserve world-class education.”

- Peter ToddDean of HEC Paris Business School

in Forbes

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May 2017 “Most online courses are accessible 24/7, 365 days a year, so you can usually study around your work schedule from anywhere in the world. If you’re an older student juggling an education with other responsibilities, this flexibility is ideal. You can do your homework all at once or in nuggets between other obligations.

Often, you can study for a degree online at a pace that fits your lifestyle. You can take one or several courses per semester or enroll in an online program with shorter terms that make it easier to concentrate on one course at a time.”

- Marian Stoltz-LoikeVice President of Online Education at Touro College

in U.S. News & World ReportFebruary 2017

“For many online institutions, the coursework for each class has been standardized and posted on a course website. Recommended assignments and grading rubrics are pre-developed as are class overviews/lectures. This simplifies the work of the instructor a great deal and they can focus on bring practical experience to the class and not worry about lesson plans and reading assignments.”

- WorldWideLearn.comJune 2018

There are many more rationales and numerous studies that support the use of online learning. Please contact us for additional support material when developing a proposal or presentation to build consensus about funding and commencing an online learning project.

In fact, we will be happy to discuss consultation services for grant writing, internal communication either by paper or presentation to decision-makers, and the use of demonstration materials for staff/learner buy-in.

The Process of Development

“Building an online course (MOOC – Massive Open Online Course) is tricky work. It involves writing lecture scripts, rethinking course structure, creating a slew of multiple choice quizzes, adapting grading software, filming lectures and (sometimes) discussion groups, editing footage, and building a course page.”

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- Rachelle Peterson Research Associate

National Association of ScholarsSeptember 17, 2013

When taking on a development project for online learning, it is important to choose a partner that: has experience, knows the industry, and has a process for development that will make the investment worthwhile, and keep the project within budgetary restrictions and allow it to be delivered on-time.

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Online courses are not all made equal, in fact they are “tailor-made” with attention to learning goals and learner needs which are never generic. This also means that there is the usual tension between time and money that cannot be ignored.

A balance must be struck that incorporates the following:

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Instructor(s) skills and availability (on-camera, teleprompter use, scriptwriting & editing, creation of visual support material, curriculum development, etc.)

Learner skills and goals (entry level, advanced, certificate, non-credit, continuing education, English as a second language, orientation, job advancement, etc.)

Nature of content (visually oriented, complexity, rate of change, etc.)

Budget Delivery method and access Positioning in marketplace (if retail)

We have a proven process that addresses all of these points. It has been tested numerous times and we have refined it by learning from past errors and building upon many successes with a number of clients from varied backgrounds. We have developed online learning for internal company needs, for not-for-profit entities, for large corporations, for colleges and universities, and for retail sales around the world.

Buy-in and adherence to the process is the first step that must be taken before course development can be initiated. It is essential to the outcome, and the first victim of straying from the process is the budget.

Drawing upon industry sources, a pricing formula for online course production would look as follows:

Learning Solutions magazine suggests that a cost per hour at a moderate level of production would be $12,500 per course hour.

e-Learning Heroes suggests that a basic, but professionally produced, hour of eLearning requires about 185 hours of effort at an average cost of about USD $19,000.

Full Circle Studios suggests a cost of $15,000 per hour of finished online instruction if the proper ratio of elements is maintained (see chart below)

“As you might imagine the cost to create a MOOC varies between MOOCs, much like the cost to create a movie varies depending on the length,

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quality, and resources provided. If a MOOC contains rich interactives, simulations, animations, and challenging problems for the learner, then the cost can be significantly higher than a simple MOOC with video and multiple choice questions. In my experience, first time development costs for a MOOC can range from about $5,000 to $1 million (not counting instructor time), with a typical ballpark cost around $50,000.”

- Anant Agarwal, CEO of edx.org

Jan 10 2016

Remember that those are just three examples we picked off the internet, there are many more both higher and lower in their estimations. Also be aware that there are “above” and “below” the line costs involved. There are the resources to be used internally and those that are contracted just for the project duration. Once again time is money, so over-stressing internal resources with course development and production may have a greater budget factor than hiring outside resources.

We offer services that can include full course design and production (you supply the basic material in the form of print, or PowerPoint, or an expert, etc.), and we will write the course, hire an on-camera talent to deliver, create slides, animations, and videos, and deliver the course with whatever interactivity or assessment method you choose. Or you can supply some of those materials as is prudent and we will take over when you hand it off to us at that point.

The most cost-effective style of production is the on-screen presenter(s), but that demands a highly skilled and energetic on-camera presence that may be difficult to find combined with sufficient knowledge of the content. Also, there tends to be user fatigue when the material is just a “talking head” no matter how professional.

The second most cost-effective style is graphics with voice –over. The creation of interesting and informative “slides” or simple animations (PowerPoint) takes time & money, and it also wears out its welcome after a few minutes.

A more expensive – but most interesting – style uses short demonstrations, process videos, more complex animations, location shooting, panel discussions, etc. The costs are higher but the audience engagement is equally high.

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We feel that a structured combination of the three styles is the best to make a compelling and effective course – but keep the budget in line with expectations.A typical breakdown is described in the following chart.

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Production Services

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Introduction and coordination of a “design deck” for the course (see below)

Instructional design of best blend of segments for each course, best use of presenter(s) and/or host, best use of animation & video as is consistent with budget parameters

Instructional design of slide materials for maximum effectiveness Creative design of a template for graphics, slides, and

animations Design & construction of set pieces for course(s) Training and preparation of instructor/presenter for on-camera

work HD video production of presenter(s) and/or host in studio w/set HD video production of demo videos, process videos, interview

videos, panel discussion videos, location videos, etc. HD video editing of courses Design and production of courses in Presenter/Storyline for LMS

use

Copyright Forrest Media 2018

Design Deck Items

Font Style(s)Font Color(s)Font Texture(s) (plain text, chalk, LED display, typewriter, white board, etc.)Color Palette (consider graphics, backgrounds, wardrobe, etc.)Graphic Space (video online is 16x9 in LMS it could be 4x3)Composition (in frame are things centered, off-center left or right,

are there PIP?)Transitions (cuts, fades, dissolves, wipes, builds, etc.)

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Graphic Style (bold, cartoony, elegant, newsy, upbeat, scientific, etc.)Graphic Shapes (squares, rectangles, circles, curves, diagonals, etc.)Graphic Textures (flat color, soft focus, On-camera Presenters (content expert, host, testimonial, etc.)On Camera Look (business formal, casual, medical, technical, etc.)On Camera Process (teleprompter direct read, teleprompter

improvise from PPT slides or bullet points, full improvise as lecture, memorization of material, W&T (walk and talk), etc.)

On-camera Set-up (single camera, two-camera, multiple angles on set, etc.)Camera Palette (desaturated, hued, shallow focus, etc.)Five Minute Segment Breakdown (host, presenter, video, graphics)Twenty-five Minute Module Breakdown (host, presenter, video, graphics)One Hundred and Twenty-five Minute Course Breakdown Soundtrack (narration, direct sound, music, natural sound, effects, etc.)Titles & Interstitials (intros & outros, segment titles, module titles, course titles, lower thirds, etc.)

Company Background

Full Circle Studios, Western New York’s premier digital media design and development company since 1999, has experience and recognition second-to-none in the field. Our management team has over 75 years of combined professional experience in instructional design, applications of technology in education and public information, and the creation of media projects. Our staff is drawn from the best college academic programs including: communication studies, art, and written communication, each holding a four-year degree, some with advanced degrees, in their respective areas of expertise.

FCS was the first company in upstate New York to offer complete DVD authoring and mastering services, and continues to be the leader in providing the latest in cutting-edge technologies like: webvideo, webinars, on-line learning, interactive presentations, aerial photography, and action camera photography. FCS has compiled a client list that is outstanding in its depth, variety, and complexity of production. Our projects range from short webvideos and basic video training materials, to complex on-line learning courses and high-quality marketing videos and television commercials.

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Full Circle Studios is a digital media design and development company that can take a project from initial conceptualization, through scriptwriting, into digital video/audio recording, culminating in non-linear, uncompressed editing with advanced capabilities in 2D & 3D animation, graphic design, and illustration. Projects include broadcast television shows, training programs, marketing presentations, and fundraising support. FCS can master to all professional formats including 4K, 2K, HD (1080i/720p), SD, as well as, DVD, CD-ROM, web-based applications, and others.

Staff Biographies

Kevin Crosby - PartnerEducationBA Wake Forest College Ph.D. in Instructional Communications Graduate School of Education at the University at BuffaloProfessional ExperiencePartner at Full Circle Studios (1999 – present)Partner & Secretary at NDT Classroom, Inc. (2012-present)Rotary District 7090 Governor (2015-2016)Past President of the Buffalo-Niagara Chapter of the Association for Talent Development (formerly, the American Society for Training and Development) - the world's largest association dedicated to those who develop talent in organizations.

Jim Phillips - Partner EducationBS in Political Science & Psychology - Canisius College, Buffalo, NYMS in Rehabilitation Psychology, State University of New York at BuffaloState Institute on Alcoholism, State University College at BuffaloProfessional Experience Partner & CFO - Full Circle Studios, LLC. (1999-Present)Partner & CFO - NDT Classroom, Inc. (2012-Present)Partner at PVA Investment Associates 1981-PresentUB School of Medicine Assistant Professor Dept. of Rehabilitation Medicine (1968-2000)UB Adjunct Assistant Professor School of Nursing (1982-1991)UB Adjunct Assistant Professor School Health Related Profession (OT & PT) (1985- 1997)Relevant AppointmentsConsultant: Western N.Y. Health Systems for Rehabilitation and Post-Acute Care services (2000 to 2006)Voluntary Faculty, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, SUNY at Buffalo; (2000 – Present)Medical/Vocational Expert, Bureau of Hearings and Appeals, U.S. Department of Health and Welfare; (1974 –2016)UB Long Range Planning Committee on Extreme Events (2003 – Present)Board Work

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Western New York Science Congress, Inc., Executive Board Member (2012 to Present)Schofield Care System, Board Member & Chairman (2009 to Present)University District Community Development Association, Board Member & Treasure (2010 to Present)Buffalo Angels, LLC, Member & Partner (2012 to Present)Western New York Venture Association, Member (2002 to Present)

Terry J. Fisher - Partner EducationEd.M. in Instructional Communications – University at Buffalo (1981)BA in Communication and Theatre – State University College at Oswego (1973)(Minors: English, Education, and Speech)Professional ExperiencePartner-Producer-Director at Full Circle Studios (1999-Present)Partner - NDT Classroom, Inc (2012-Present)Associate Professor of Communication Studies – Canisius College (1989-1999)Director – The Media Center – Canisius College (1991 – 1999)Assistant Professor of Communications – State University College at Brockport (1988-1989)Adjunct Professor of Communications – State University College at Fredonia (1985-1986)Board WorkBoard Member – The BFLO Experience (WNY Hall of Fame) (2016-Present)Board Member – Buffalo Broadcasters Association (2013 – Present)Market Arcade Film & Arts Centre (2003-13)Theatre District Association (2018)

Cole Bielecki – Digital Media ProducerEducationBA in Communication Studies – Niagara UniversityFAA certified pilot for small unmanned aerial systems. (FAA-UAS Part 107), covering low-risk, commercial sUAS flight operations.Professional ExperienceFull Circle Studios Digital Media Producer (2015 – present)Experience in shooting and editing television commercials, motion graphics, and photographyCole has a passion for cameras and is constantly up to date with the latest equipment.The Best Shorts Competition 2017Currently in its 6th year, Best Shorts is an avant-garde worldwide competition that strives to give talented directors, producers, actors, creative teams and new media creators the positive

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exposure they deserve. It discovers and honors the achievements of filmmakers who produce high quality shorts and new media. “Cultivating Life Energy” – Qigong Network Award of Merit: Health / Medicine / Science Award of Recognition: Editing – Cole BieleckiHe currently is focusing on photography, video editing, motion graphics, and fine dining.

Harry Jones – Digital Media ProducerEducationSUNY Fredonia - Video Production BS program as well as the Audio/Radio Production BS program with a minor is Business Administration.FAA certified pilot for small unmanned aerial systems. (FAA-UAS Part 107), covering low-risk, commercial sUAS flight operations.Professional ExperienceFull Circle Studios Digital Media Producer (2017 – present)Worked for a sports team in Rochester developing their web presence and building their fanbase though video, print and various forms of social media including Facebook, Twitter, and InstagramHe currently is focusing on the creation of online learning materials and being a part of the FCS production team.

John Parascak - Digital Media ProducerEducationErie County Community College – Associate Degree Liberal ArtsInternational Film & Television Workshops – Assistant Cameraperson & Camera OperatorTahoe Film & Video Workshops – Professional CinematographyProfessional ExperienceFull Circle Studios Digital Media Producer – (2018-present)Black Horse Videography (2015-2018)John Parascak Photography ((1989-present)David Photo & Video Services – (2001-2014)Professional MembershipsBuffalo Society of Artists – Exhibiting Member (2009-present)

2018 Client List

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Project Descriptions w/Product & Service Applications

Online Learning

CAP-PC (Child and Adolescent Psychiatry for Primary Care)“Online Education Programs & Website”CAP PC is New York state's response to better meet the public health need of its children and families by bolstering primary care physicians' ability to assess and manage children and adolescents (to age 21) in their practices with mild to moderate mental health problems. FCS created online education and a website for CAP-PC.

Food Bank of Western New York“Proper Food Handling Certification”FCS photographed, edited, and created an online educational program for the Food Bank to certify member agencies in proper food handling to align with the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service guidelines.

National Institutes of Health “Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR Grant 2010)”Full Circle has produced a website including an online education program and associated educational resources for parents of children diagnosed with Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH). Working in conjunction with Dr. David Sandberg of the University of Michigan Medical School. Parents will be able to access accurate, vetted information about a range of topics related to the management of CAH and working collaboratively with members of the healthcare team. Parents can review the information in the comfort of their home, individually or with other family members, whenever and as often as they want.

NDT Classroom, Inc.“Non-destructive Testing Educational Curriculum”FCS produced a series of online courses in a range of non-destructive testing methods including: Visual Testing, Magnetic Testing, Penetrant Testing, Radiography Testing, Radiation Safety, and others. The course are used worldwide in aerospace, gas & oil, transportation, and many other industries. These courses are also used by colleges and universities as part of a complete curriculum for degree-based education in the field.

Parent Network of WNY“Community Living Options”“Starting a Business for People with Disabilities”“Care Coordination”“Selfcare”FCS produced instructional segments, short theatrical scenes, and graphics & animations for a series of educational online courses for parents and children who are dealing with developmental disability issues.

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Summit Center“Webinar Presentation on Issues in Education for Children with Disabilities”FCS captured a day-long conference on educational issues for children with, and without, disabilities. The three sessions have been edited into online courses accessed by the Summit Center’s LMS for national & international learning.

University of Buffalo – Website Training“Website Parameters & Compliance”FCS created a series of online courses for UB staff to learn the standards and principles for developing websites on the UB campus.

UB – The Center for Industrial Effectiveness“Six Sigma Green Belt Training Online”FCS recorded TCIE’s instructor presenting a 40+ hour course in Six Sigma Green Belt Training in front of a live class, captured his PowerPoint slides and other visuals, and formatted the materials into an interactive on-line course.

UB – The Center for Industrial Effectiveness“Digital Manufacturing Education Online”FCS developed graphics and animation for this 32 hour course on Digital Manufacturing, which will be presented by Coursera, a venture-backed, for-profit, educational technology company that offers massive open online courses (MOOCs). Coursera works with universities and other organizations to make courses available online for national access.

UB – The Center for Industrial Effectiveness“Blockchain Online”FCS developed graphics and animation for this 6 hour course on Blockchain, which will be presented by Coursera, a venture-backed, for-profit, educational technology company that offers massive open online courses (MOOCs). Coursera works with universities and other organizations to make courses available online for national access.

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