Communicating Across Teams in High-Stakes Environments
A scenario-based micro-course on clear communication and escalation under pressure
In under 10 minutes, this scenario-based course helps field teams and supervisors prevent costly miscommunication, choose the right channel, and escalate issues clearly, even under pressure.
Inside the Course
Explore key moments from the learner journey.
Project Overview
Inspired by communication breakdowns in safety-critical industries, this self-initiated project focuses on helping frontline workers and supervisors communicate more clearly in high-stakes environments.
My Role
I designed and developed this course from end to end, from concept and structure to final visuals and job aid. While the audience is hypothetical, the course reflects real-world communication failures in the oil & gas, utilities, and field operations.
Tools Used
Articulate Rise 360 - Course authoring and interaction design
Canva - Visual design, icons, and downloadable job aid
ChatGPT - Topic research and scenario development
Articulate AI tools - Image generation for clean visuals
Learning Objectives
By the end of this course, learners will be able to:
- Identify common communication breakdowns in high-pressure environments
- Apply the three rules of clear communication under stress
- Choose the appropriate communication channel based on urgency and clarity
- Escalate issues effectively using a structured, 4-step process
Instructional Design Strategy
This course was built using the ADDIE framework, with emphasis on Design and Development phases. I also applied Gagné’s Nine Events of Instruction to guide learner progression:
- Realistic scenarios to capture attention
- Clear objectives and visual structure
- Guided practice with branching and feedback
To minimize cognitive load, I used Mayer’s Multimedia Principles, including Coherence, Signalling, and Spatial Contiguity.
The course’s goal is not just knowledge, but real-world decision-making under stress.
What I Learned
This project reinforced the power of scenario-based learning to shift workplace behavior. While developing for a fictional audience, I drew on coaching and teaching experience to anticipate learner resistance and risk points.
It also taught me how to scale down complex performance goals into a tight microlearning experience that still delivers meaningful behavior change.
Downloadable Job Aid
To support real-world application, I created a printable, one-page PDF that summarizes escalation protocols and communication best practices. Designed for mobile or clipboard use on site.
Let’s Connect
I'm passionate about designing meaningful learner-centered experiences that drive real results, whether for onboarding, wellness, compliance, or operational training.
Let's connect to talk about how I can support your team's learning goals.