Abstract:

This abstract outlines how design sprint, as illustrated by Knapp et al, in addition to “think-pair-share” (TPS) methodology developed by Lyman can be applied to achieve streamlined design of training programmes. The AgriTech Centre of Excellence (ACE), at Munster Technological University in County Kerry Ireland, offers a new approach to sectoral learning and development, through e-learning, virtual reality and innovative programme design methodologies. ACE is the first centre of its kind in Europe and aims to enhance the capabilities of Ireland’s AgriTech companies through enhanced learning approaches. A key component of the ACE strategy is driving innovation around learning and development for the sector through the creation of a tailored Learning Experience. In addition to an adaptive approach to the learning styles of personnel in the sector, ACE utilises a process-based approach to identifying training and development needs. Once identified, ACE implement bespoke and innovative training solutions to meet these needs. This paper describes an ongoing project, and methodological approach employed, whereby the ACE team identify, design and deliver priority training programmes as defined by its AgriTech sector industry partners through design sprint and TPS.

The ACE team applied design thinking, TPS and design sprint methodologies as a fast and effective process to encourage individual inputs into programme design whilst promoting group collaboration to help achieve training programme objectives as described by Ferreira and Canedo. These procedural actions were chosen for our client’s educational/training programme design for the following reasons:

1. Quick & decisive road map established in a structured & time-effective manner
2. Replaces open, unstructured discussion with a clear process
3. Aids in driving learner-centred programme design
4. Allows all voices to be heard in a structured manner
5. Embeds the methodology within our partner organisations to aid in problem-solving & strategic planning
6. Enables flexible programme design, delivery & deployment to meet client needs

This methodological approach allows ACE to efficiently define a company’s set of priority training programmes and design a map of associated actions required based on consensus and direct feedback from the client. One of the major advantages of the methodology is that it prevents a team from overthinking how to address a particular issue, as warned against by Talbert. The case study illustrated in this paper had a design sprint team consisting of a moderator, 2 facilitators and 8 individuals from different functional areas within the partner organisation. The moderator briefed participants on the process, the objectives and divided the 8 participants into 2 groups. The session included 5 activities each designed to establish key information relating to the overall training program framework of the organization. This strategy was used to establish: 1) the most prioritized training topic/module within the framework, 2) the target audience/learner cohort, 3) the learning outcomes required, 4) the training delivery methods, 5) measurement of training effectiveness and 6) how continuous improvement is identified and acted upon with regards to the training programme.

Keywords:

AgriTech, e-learning, Design Sprint, Think-Pair-Share