Michael Marucci
Adopting Dogs Online Preparation Training (A.D.O.P.T)
​This training will provide those interested in adopting a dog with the necessary information to properly prepare them to become a forever home for a dog in need.
Target Audience: Anyone looking to adopt a new dog
Responsibilities: Instructional Designer, Graphic Designer, eLearning Developer
Tools: Adobe Illustrator, Adobe XD, Vyond, Articulate Storyline
Year: 2023
Overview
Too often people adopt dogs from shelters without the proper preparation or expectation of responsibilities, often resulting in pets being returned to shelters. The goal is to decrease the amount of returned adoptions by implementing this preparedness training for potential adopters. This concept learning experience would be used by dog shelters as part of their adoption process to help better prepare future dog owners.
Process
Once I finished creating the design document, I begin working on the text-based storyboard, that incorporated all of the learning goals and objectives.
​
I went with a very playful experience in the script, as this is a key element of having and preparing for a dog. Although, there are a lot of things that can be useful to have when adopting a dog, we included the most vital aspects one should have ready to go when they bring home their new friend.
​
I gamified some of the content by including a couple difference find scenes, where the learner would have to click on and identify certain items they would need for their home. I wanted to make sure the learning experience was interactive and engaged the learner, but also was educational.
Visual Mock Ups
Once the text-based storyboard was revised and completed, I began creating visual mockups for the scenario in Adobe XD. Adobe XD allowed me to experiment with visual elements and layouts in order to settle on something that felt polished and immersive.
​
I maintained a consistent visual style for each element, from the background to the characters. I also created a custom color palette based on the concept shelter's logo that was designed in Adobe Illustrator.
​
I wanted the visuals to match the playfulness of the script and learning experience.
Final Development
The project was developed in Articulate storyline 360 using the visual mock-ups and script from the storyboard established in the design phase.
​
I included smooth transitions and animations from one scene to the next, keeping the experience of the training consistent throughout.
​
To add more depth and diversify the experience, I included an introduction video for the learner to watch right after they began the course. This served a dual purpose as it went over the learning objectives while also setting the tone of the rest of the learning experience.
​
The video was developed in Vyond, using many of the features available within the video authoring tool.
Final Product
The final learning experience received overwhelmingly positive feedback. Viewers commented on its polished feel while highlighting its immersivity and engaging dialogue.
​
This project provided me with the opportunity to learn new programs and tools and to integrate feedback and overall grow as an instructional designer and eLearning developer. Most importantly though, from the analysis, to the design then development and ultimately implementation and evaluation this concept project was a blast to work on and create.
