Dr. Carl's E-Learning Surgery

Got an e-learning problem? Need a quick and dirty solution? You’ve come to the right place.

Child-proof locks

Dear Dr. Carl,

I’m developing an e-learning platform for a children’s charity. The kids do not have email addresses and we cannot hold sensitive data about them in a database.

How can I create unique accounts and a login process with these restrictions?

Dear Charity Case,

Kids eh? Always causing problems.

First off, how about a cool username and PIN combo?

Sort of like a secret agent code! Each kid gets a unique username (maybe mix their first name with some random numbers), and they use a simple PIN to log in.

Or here’s a wild thought – picture passwords! Let the rugrats pick a set of fun icons to log in, like a memory game and a password all rolled into one.

Got some tech-savvy teens? Try a QR code login! Print out personalized QR codes on stickers or cards. They’ll feel like they’re unlocking a secret treasure every time they log in.

If you’re feeling fancy and have some dosh to spare, why not go for physical tokens? Wristbands or cards with special chips or codes could be a hit and give that VIP feeling.

Last but not least, how about a class code plus a personal number? It’s like having a special clubhouse password, but each kid also has their own secret handshake.

Whatever you choose, just remember to keep it secure (you know, all that techie stuff like hashing and HTTPS). And maybe chat with a legal bod to make sure you’re ticking all the right boxes for protecting the children’s privacy.

Not my problem

Dear Dr. Carl,

I’ve developed an LMS for a client to create and sell their own online courses. They’re clearly rubbish at marketing and I’m worried that their failure to sell is going to be blamed on the platform and reflect badly on me. How do I politely tell them that the marketing and sales of their platform has nothing to do with the development work?

Dear Blameless,

I hate to say it but this is a problem you should have addressed right at the start of the client relationship under chapter 2 of the Client Handbook, Managing Expectations. However, seeing as you have made it through to the end of the development process without setting out your stall, we’ll need to retroactively address the elephant in the room with a friendly yet firm email and hope they go for it.

Try something like this:

“Hey there [Client’s Name], I hope you’re as excited about your new e-learning platform as I am! It’s been a blast bringing your vision to life. Now that we’ve got your digital classroom all set up and humming, I thought it might be a good time to chat about next steps.

Just wanted to touch base and make sure we’re on the same page about roles moving forward. As your friendly neighbourhood developer, my job was to build you a rock-solid platform that can handle all your e-learning dreams. Mission accomplished!

The next exciting chapter - getting students flocking to your courses - that’s where your expertise comes in. Marketing and sales are really their own special skills (and not exactly in my wheelhouse, I’ll admit). But I’m rooting for you all the way!

I’d hate for there to be any confusion down the road, so I just wanted to clarify that the platform’s success in the market is separate from the development work. I’ve delivered a tool that’s ready for you to wield like a pro!

If you’re looking for marketing support, I’d be happy to point you towards some specialists who could be real game-changers for you. After all, we want your courses to get the spotlight they deserve!

Let me know if you have any questions about the platform itself - I’m always here to help with that. And hey, when those students start pouring in, I’d love to hear all about it!

Cheers to your success!”

It gently reminds them of your role, clarifies expectations, offers a bit of support, and keeps things positive. You’re not leaving them high and dry, but you’re also not signing up for a job you didn’t agree to. Win-win!