For years, eLearning designers have followed the “Watch, Try, Do” approach to training. The logic behind it seems sound: learners watch a demonstration, try an activity with guidance, and then perform the task independently. However, despite its widespread use, this method often falls short of delivering meaningful learning outcomes. Many learners struggle to retain knowledge, and training effectiveness remains questionable.
So why does “Watch, Try, Do” frequently fail? Let’s examine the common pitfalls and explore how to create more impactful eLearning simulations.
1. The “Watch” Phase is Too Passive
The first step in the “Watch, Try, Do” model requires learners to observe an action being performed, often via a video or step-by-step guide. While this might seem useful, passive observation rarely leads to deep learning.
Why It Fails:
- Learners quickly lose focus, especially if the demonstration is long or repetitive.
- Watching someone else perform a task doesn’t always translate into understanding how to do it themselves.
- It assumes that all learners absorb information the same way, ignoring differences in learning styles.
A Better Approach: Instead of relying on passive video demonstrations, use interactive storytelling, decision-making exercises, or real-time branching scenarios. This engages learners immediately rather than making them sit through a lengthy explanation before doing anything.
2. The “Try” Phase Lacks Real-World Complexity
The next phase involves learners trying the task with structured guidance. This often takes the form of simple drag-and-drop exercises, guided click-throughs, or step-by-step walkthroughs. While these exercises reinforce procedural knowledge, they often fail to prepare learners for real-world application.
Why It Fails:
- Many “Try” activities are overly simplistic, missing the nuances and challenges of actual job scenarios.
- Learners often follow instructions mechanically without truly understanding the reasoning behind their actions.
- There’s little room for mistakes or exploration, making the experience feel artificial.
A Better Approach: Introduce adaptive learning experiences where learners face decision-making scenarios with multiple possible outcomes. Let them make mistakes and learn from them instead of following a predefined path. Scenario-based training and gamification elements can also help mimic real-life complexities more effectively.
3. The “Do” Phase Doesn’t Reinforce Long-Term Learning
The final step expects learners to perform the task independently. However, many eLearning courses treat this as the end of the learning process rather than part of a continuous reinforcement cycle.
Why It Fails:
- There’s often no meaningful feedback or follow-up to reinforce what was learned.
- Learners may still struggle when transitioning from simulated practice to real-world application.
- Training is often a one-time event instead of a continuous learning journey.
A Better Approach: Use spaced repetition and real-world application exercises to reinforce knowledge over time. Encourage learners to revisit and apply concepts in their actual work environment, and provide ongoing assessment opportunities. Learning analytics can help track progress and identify areas where additional support is needed.
4. Lack of Personalization
Traditional “Watch, Try, Do” models assume a linear path, meaning all learners go through the same content in the same way. This doesn’t account for different learning speeds, prior knowledge, or individual learning preferences.
Why It Fails:
- Advanced learners may become disengaged due to redundant content.
- Struggling learners may feel lost if they need more support.
- It doesn’t adapt to the specific needs of each learner.
A Better Approach: Implement adaptive learning strategies that tailor the experience based on the learner’s performance. Offer branching scenarios where learners can take different paths based on their choices. This makes the learning experience feel more relevant and engaging.
Conclusion: Moving Beyond “Watch, Try, Do”
While the “Watch, Try, Do” framework has its place in eLearning, relying on it without addressing its shortcomings leads to disengaged learners and ineffective training. The key to better simulations is to create interactive, real-world scenarios that challenge learners, provide meaningful feedback, and reinforce knowledge over time.
By focusing on active participation, personalization, and continuous learning reinforcement, organizations can ensure their training programs drive real skill development rather than just fulfilling a requirement.