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The eLearning Coach Newsletter

Order-Taker Syndrome, Live-Action Video Production, and Better Explanations

Published 4 days ago • 3 min read

The eLearning Coach Newsletter

For Nerdy Fun

August 2, 2026

Greetings Reader,
Learning designers are often frustrated that decision-makers think training is the solution to every problem. Then, when it turns out that the problem persists even after training, it can make you or our field look less than stellar. Have you experienced this?

The first article is a way out. If you have enough credibility in your organization or with your clients, you can propose a root cause analysis to discover the underlying causes of a problem. I explain how to do this in the first article.

The next one is about planning a video production. Not the kind where you sit in front of your camera or record a screen, but one with live-action, on location, and with actors. This approach can be a powerful strategy for getting attention and changing behaviors.

The last item is a podcast episode about generating helpful and clear explanations. I think that’s part art and part science. I hope you enjoy this newsletter.

Are you attending the ATD Core4 Conference in Indianapolis? I’ll be there, and I’d love to meet you. Click reply and let me know.

​Avoid Order-Taker Syndrome with Root Cause Analysis​

Learn how to use systems thinking to identify the underlying causes of a problem rather than defaulting to training as a fix.

​Planning a Live-Action Training Video Production​

Storytelling with actors is a dynamic and authentic way to enhance training videos. Here’s a brief guide on how to approach this method and where AI tools can help.

​How to Make Better Explanations​

The goal of an explanation is to make something clear or understandable to someone else. How often do we achieve that goal? Listen to this conversation by the author of The Art of Explanation.

Now on to the goodies below.

Save Up to $550 on DevLearn & Learning Leadership Through August 14

Time is running out to save up to $550 on DevLearn and Learning Leadership. Register by August 14 to lock in the Elite rate and join thousands of learning professionals for expert insights, innovative strategies, and valuable networking opportunities in Las Vegas this November.

GOOD FINDS

Before downloading files, please be sure to check that they are virus and spam-free. Note that freebies often require some form of registration.

MAKE ME THINK

MULTIMEDIA

  • ​22 Illustrated Characters (400 poses) free from Tom Kuhlmann of Articulate.
  • ​Pictographic: Text to SVG icon generator. Adjust the slider in the upper right and also there are export settings. (SVG files can be edited in PowerPoint, Illustrator, and other tools.)
  • ​Hue Tools: An open source toolbox for colors.
  • ​Words of Type: An illustrated dictionary of typographic terms.

COOL TOOLS

  • ​Google Pinpoint: AI-driven research tool to quickly search, analyze, and organize massive collections of documents.
  • ​Blokdots: A hardware prototyping app.
  • ​Tilda: Website or portfolio builder tool with free and low-cost plans
  • ​Jan AI: An open-source private LLM that runs on your desktop.

WAYS TO GROW YOUR SKILLS & CAREER

Courses to help you build your skills and career.

​MASTERING INSTRUCTIONAL DESIGN​
(ONE-MONTH FREE)​
​For new and seasoned instructional designers who want to gain competence in instructional design skills. A professional learning community with monthly live sessions, 15+ self-paced courses, and 50+ expert recordings covering instructional design, multimedia, and learning strategy. Learn what you need, when you need it. Take part in the events and courses with one month free.​
​BREAKING INTO INSTRUCTIONAL DESIGN​
(FREE EMAIL COURSE) ​
​For people exploring or transitioning into instructional design.​
A 12-lesson introduction to the field, covering career paths, responsibilities, networking, and salary ranges. Delivered over six weeks or available immediately as an eBook for purchase. Start the free course.
​ELEVATE YOUR PROFILE AND VISIBILITY
(FREE EMAIL COURSE)
​For learning professionals who want to stand out without self-promotion. An 8-lesson email course on overcoming visibility barriers, contributing with confidence, and building a sustainable visibility plan. Lessons arrive every few days to support steady momentum without overwhelm. Start the free course.​

UPCOMING PRESENTATIONS
​Join me at one of these upcoming events:

Sign up for this newsletter: The eLearning Coach Newsletter.

​Let's connect on LinkedIn.

Stay inspired!

Connie Malamed
​Publisher of The eLearning Coach​
Founder of Mastering Instructional Design​

PO Box 1623, Frederick, MD 21702
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The eLearning Coach Newsletter

Connie Malamed

I help learning professionals build skills and visibility to advance their careers. Join 15,000 readers who enjoy articles on learning design, visual design, and cognitive psychology every month.. Subscribe for practical guidance, resources, and freebies.

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