The Problem
There has been a steady increase in disasters, diseases, and conflicts around the world. When these events happen, many UNICEF staff and partners work tirelessly to help those affected, especially children and vulnerable groups. The staff deployed in these emergencies must understand UNICEF's accountability to affected populations.
The Solution
With regular inputs on the content from subject matter experts, I have designed a self-paced e-learning course entitled "Practical Applications of AAP in Humanitarian Response." This course was designed using the Articulate Rise authoring tool. The tool supports accessibility and can easily be added to an LMS. The course aims to ensure that UNICEF staff and partners understand what AAP is and how to apply it in humanitarian contexts.
The Process
I used Backward Design to develop the course, starting with the learning objectives, then assessments and activities, and finally adding the content. This approach helped ensure that the learning objectives were woven into the design from start to finish. I also set up biweekly check-ins with the subject matter experts (SMEs) to support content development. I created a text-based storyboard outline, and once the SMEs agreed on the outline, I developed a more detailed storyboard using PowerPoint. For interactive elements, I drafted the scripts and used iterative design to speed up the process.
I followed UNICEF’s brand guidelines and used the appropriate color codes. I also ensured that the text and background colors in the course were accessible by checking the contrast using accessibility software. I added alt text to non-decorative media and included audio to further increase accessibility. The Articulate Rise authoring tool is responsive on laptops, desktops, and mobile devices.
I am most proud of the pre-assessment I created to engage the learner and activate prior knowledge. I am also proud of the interactive timeline of humanitarian guiding principles. The timeline includes a combination of photos, audio with music and sound effects, and a custom background. See the screenshots below.
Learning Objectives
By the end of the course, learners will:
- Define Accountability to Affected Populations (AAP) and its core principles in humanitarian action.
- Identify the AAP commitment and benchmarks in the UNICEF Core Commitments for Children (CCCs).
- Explain how AAP integrates with Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR) and cross-cutting areas.
- Describe methods for community participation, feedback mechanisms, and effective communication with affected populations.
- Recognize the role of partnerships and local collaboration in implementing AAP.
Audience
Applicable to all UNICEF personnel and partners.
Languages
The course is currently available in English.
Methodology
The course is composed of three modules which use: case studies/scenarios, videos and reflective exercises to help you to build and strengthen your understanding of AAP in Humanitarian Response.
Structure
- Pre-assessment
- Module 1: Introduction
- Module 2: AAP in Humanitarian Action
- Module 3: Integrating AAP into humanitarian systems and procedures
- Final Assessment
- Course Evaluation and Certificate
Responsibilities
- Instructional design
- Storyboard
- eLearning development
Tools
- Articulate Rise
- Canva Pro
