Scenario-based training is a pivotal component of DITA-based educational eLearning materials, offering learners an effective and engaging approach to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world situations.

Real-Life Context

Scenario-based training presents learners with realistic situations they may encounter in their respective fields of study. DITA allows the creation of detailed scenarios using specialized topic types, providing context and background information for each scenario. For example, in medical education, a scenario might involve a patient’s case history, symptoms, and lab results, allowing medical students to diagnose and recommend treatment based on the presented information.

Application of Knowledge

Learners are challenged to apply their knowledge and problem-solving skills within these scenarios. DITA’s support for conditional processing comes into play, as learners’ decisions and actions within the scenario can lead to different outcomes or branching scenarios. It encourages active learning and helps learners understand how theoretical concepts are relevant in practical situations. In addition, feedback can be provided within the scenario to guide learners and reinforce their understanding.

Example:

Here’s an example of how DITA can be used for scenario-based training:

<topic id="medical_diagnosis_scenario" class="scenario">
  <title>Medical Diagnosis Scenario</title>
  <content>...
  <scenario-details>
    <patient-case>
      <history>John Doe, 45-year-old male.</history>
      <symptoms>Fever, cough, and shortness of breath.</symptoms>
      <lab-results>High white blood cell count, chest X-ray shows infiltrates.</lab-results>
    </patient-case>
  </scenario-details>
  <interaction>
    <decision-point>What should be the initial diagnosis?</decision-point>
    <options>
      <option result="pneumonia">Pneumonia</option>
      <option result="common-cold">Common cold</option>
    </options>
  </interaction>

In this example, a DITA topic defines a medical diagnosis scenario. It includes details about the patient’s case and an interactive decision point where the learner chooses an initial diagnosis. The outcome of the decision will lead to different paths within the scenario, allowing learners to apply their medical knowledge.