Discover the journey of creating a large-scale learning solution that empowers trainers and learners across diverse regions
Reaching nearly 18,000 forestry employees across Indonesia’s remote islands with essential skills for conservation and management is a massive undertaking. When Indonesia’s Centre for Forestry Education and Training (CEFET) set out to make these educational resources accessible on a national scale, they recognised that a traditional approach wouldn’t be enough. They needed a sustainable, large-scale eLearning solution to bridge geographical and resource gaps—enter the potential of Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs).
Partnering with common sense and supported by FORCLIME (Forests and Climate Change Programme by GIZ), CEFET embarked on a journey to develop a foundation for effective and engaging online learning that could work under unique constraints. Together, we addressed challenges ranging from limited infrastructure to ensuring engaging content that would keep learners motivated across the distance. Here’s how we collaborated to create an impactful and adaptable learning experience.
Evaluating Feasibility: A Roadmap for Reaching Remote Learners
MOOCs hold immense promise for reaching wide audiences, but they also come with unique challenges. Despite their popularity, MOOCs often face low completion rates, with many participants dropping off early. With these challenges in mind, we conducted a comprehensive feasibility study in March 2024 to assess whether MOOCs could effectively serve CEFET’s educational objectives and vast target audience.
Our study explored key factors such as technological readiness, learner motivation, and engagement strategies. Recognising the need to reach remote areas, we evaluated distribution methods to ensure that employees across Indonesia’s islands could access and benefit from the program. This assessment laid the foundation for a well-informed, scalable approach tailored to the needs of CEFET’s diverse and widespread audience.
Building the Foundation: Roadmap Development and Training of Trainers
The success of a MOOC program doesn’t rely solely on technology; it requires a solid framework and well-prepared instructors. Through collaborative workshops, we guided CEFET and key stakeholders to creating a roadmap that addresses MOOC design, content development and scalability.
We worked closely with CEFET’s trainers to conceptualise three distinct MOOC courses, focusing on the essential elements of course design, resource management and scalability. These sessions allowed participants to dive into the mechanics of MOOC creation, discussing everything from policy implementation to resource allocation. With input from management and on-the-ground trainers, we created a roadmap that was not only comprehensive but also aligned with CEFET’s strategic vision for large-scale educational impact.
Strategic Policy Advisory for Sustainable MOOC Implementation
A key component of the project’s long-term success was high-level policy advisory aimed to ensure institutional support and sustainability. Recognizing that large-scale eLearning initiatives require more than just technical infrastructure; we facilitated strategic discussions with key decision-makers at BP2SDM (Human Resources Development and Training Agency) and the Ministry of Environment and Forestry (MoEF). These sessions focused on embedding MOOCs within national training policies ensuring that digital learning would be recognized as a viable and valuable mode of capacity building.
During these policy dialogues, we presented findings from our mentoring activities and outlined essential recommendations for scaling MOOC adoption. Key areas of focus included the need for policy frameworks that provide incentives for both learners and instructors, the establishment of a dedicated MOOC work unit within the training center and investment in digital infrastructure. Additionally, we emphasized the importance of fostering cross-sector collaboration with technical directorates, donor organisations, and international partners to enhance content development and funding opportunities. By aligning MOOC development with national HRD strategies, these advisory efforts helped create a roadmap for institutionalizing digital learning within Indonesia’s forestry education landscape.
Empowering Trainers for Sustainable MOOC Delivery
The project also included a series of Training of Trainers (ToT) sessions, where CEFET’s trainers developed the skills needed to design and deliver MOOCs aligned with institutional goals. The training covered essential skills such as content planning, adult learning principles, and interactive course design. Through practical hands-on sessions, trainers gained the confidence to create courses that are not only informative but also highly engaging. They also developed collaborative plans for continuous improvement, creating a sustainable framework that will support the long-term success of the MOOC program. By building a solid foundation, we ensured that CEFET’s trainers are prepared to maintain high-quality course delivery in the years to come.
Our Approach: Guiding and Empowering for Long-Term Success
At common sense, our approach goes beyond just building eLearning courses. We believe in empowering our clients to lead and grow in their educational initiatives. Through each project, we act not only as consultants but as dedicated guides, providing the knowledge, tools and strategies needed to sustain the learning initiatives after our collaboration ends.
For us, it’s about creating solutions that enable organisations like CEFET to take ownership of their programs. By investing in capacity building and fostering confidence, we help our clients create resilient learning cultures. Our values - empathy, innovation and a commitment to measurable impact - are at the heart of every project, making sure our clients are not just participants in a solution but co-creators of lasting change.
What This Means for Forestry Education in Indonesia
The CEFET project in Indonesia serves as a valuable case study for how large-scale online learning can empower national agencies to achieve ambitious training goals. With the roadmap, infrastructure, and trained personnel in place, CEFET is now better equipped to deliver accessible, impactful education on forestry management across the country.
If your organisation faces similar challenges in scaling educational initiatives, our experience with CEFET demonstrates that a tailored approach can turn obstacles into opportunities for long-term growth and impact. From capacity-building workshops to infrastructure optimisation, we help organisations create sustainable, scalable learning solutions designed to meet the needs of diverse audiences.
コメント