An e-learning package with a unique business goal.

We took an open brief for an e-learning package and ran with it.

The e-learning package we produced for MaxRock is a great example of using motion graphics to solve an unusual business challenge.

Usually, we’re briefed to produce a specific item – a brochure, a report or an exhibition stand, for example. But once in a while, we know our client’s goal and it’s part of our job to come up with an optimum format for the material.

MaxRock is a pop and rock school with an exclusive teaching system called the MaxRock Method, which is suitable for all ages and needs no prior musical knowledge. MaxRock’s unique approach makes it easy for beginners to understand the fundamentals of structure, rhythm and melody. Reading music is introduced later, after the students have gained confidence, understood the context of what musical notation actually represents and – crucially – are having fun while they play!

The MaxRock Method uses visual and auditory cues based on pop culture characters that children are already familiar with. Their studio is fully equipped with instruments and amps so students can just turn up and play.

MaxRock knows that their method is a unique asset with the potential for franchising, but it was generally taught directly by the founders using just a few visual aids and notes. Toast Design Services were approached to package the lessons into a handy e-learning package to formalise the process for new teachers. This meant the brief had a few non-negotiable elements; it had to be: 

• A digital learning package
• Portable, as teachers move around the studio interacting with students during classes
• Customisable, so the client can adapt lessons for individual students and make notes on their progress

We chose to use Keynote, the iPad-compatible presentation software similar to PowerPoint, as it’s straightforward to work with and meets all these requirements.

In total there are 36 lessons – three instruments, taught over 12 weeks – with each lesson having multiple sections. We needed to break this down into a straightforward step-by-step process which focussed on each element in turn, to avoid overwhelming the student (or the teacher!)

As for the design, we represented lessons as an interactive infographic. Each lesson’s sub-sections are arranged in a circle and each one lights up as the lesson progresses. The content of each sub-section appears in the centre of the circle so there’s only one thing to concentrate on at a time, but the teacher still knows exactly where they are in the overall lesson.

Sketching an e-learning system.

We sketched out this idea to present it to the client and ensure it met their needs. MaxRock was enthusiastic about our solution as they appreciated its simplicity and neatness. Creating the templates in Keynote means MaxRock can customise and add new lessons as required without worrying about breaking the design.

In a nutshell, we delivered a series of adaptable interactive infographics which unified into an easy-to-use e-learning package – a practical combination and a solution that suits the brief down to the ground.

You can find out more about digital brochures by visiting our dedicated site.

If you need help with motion graphics get in touch with Toast today.