IMA1: Job Aid

Performance Problem Statement

A problem I face in my position as a copy editor (CE) is a lack of copy editors compared to the amount of work to be completed. This is not fixable through job aid, but it is being addressed by having a different role, associate learning technologists (ALTs), step in when needed. Here exists a performance gap in that the ALTs are not well-versed in CE tasks. This lack of knowledge can result in slower turnaround and errors found in completed course content presented to students. Slower turnaround leads to pushed deadlines, which consequently pushes subsequent course development, resulting in a never-ending game of catch-up. Errors in course content can negatively affect our reputation and that of our partners by making our content seem low-quality. This can then result in strained relationships with our partners and potentially lost partnerships and revenue.

My job aid is designed to assist the ALTs by providing a list of the major CE tasks and tips for performing each of those tasks. Although there are other elements of the CE position that would require more extensive training, such as more intricate grammar and style rules, this job aid acts as a reminder of what tasks need to be completed on the CE end and important things to keep in mind while completing them.

Description

This job aid is divided into sections that organize the information according to importance and topic. More broad information is located at the top, including general, copyright, and reference guidelines that apply to all or most tasks. The information on the bottom two-thirds of the job aid applies to specific tasks, including the review of outlines, completed assets, external documents, and the LMS. Placing the general information at the top ensures that users will see it, which is important given that this information is the most wide-reaching. The red bubble, however, still brings attention to the tips for the specific tasks.

Educational Value

This job aid provides just-in-time information to any ALTs who may be performing copy editing duties. Since these are not tasks routinely performed by ALTs, the job aid will guide the ALTs in performing the tasks by providing tips and things to look out for while reviewing assets.