Learning Problem​

Many children are told to wash their hands but do not understand why soap is necessary or how it works. Without conceptual understanding, compliance is inconsistent, and hygiene behaviors are less likely to become habitual.

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Soap works by binding to oils, dirt, and microbes, allowing water to wash them away, and can even break apart virus membranes.

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The instructional challenge was to explain this invisible molecular process in a way children could understand and remember.

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Target Audience​​

Primary audience:

• Children ages 6–10

Secondary audience:

• Parents and educators supporting elementary science learning

Learner characteristics:

• Limited prior knowledge of chemistry

• Short attention spans

• Strong response to characters and narrative

• Visual learners who benefit from animation and metaphor

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Learning Objectives

After watching this video, learners will be able to:

• Explain that soap removes germs and dirt from hands

• Understand that soap works differently than water alone

• Describe, at a basic conceptual level, how soap interacts with germs and oils

• Recognize the importance of washing hands properly

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Instructional Strategy

The instructional design used several evidence-based learning strategies:

1. Character-driven instruction
A friendly robot guide serves as a consistent instructor figure, increasing engagement and trust.

2. Narrative structure
The lesson follows a story format rather than a lecture format, improving retention and attention.

3. Visual metaphor and animation
Invisible molecular processes are translated into visible animated actions to support comprehension.

4. Cognitive load management
Information is simplified and sequenced carefully to avoid overwhelming learners.

5. Multimodal learning
Instruction combines:

• Visual animation

• Voice narration

• Timing and pacing

• Character interaction

This supports learners with different processing strengths.

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Design and Production Process

My responsibilities included:

• Concept development

• Scriptwriting and instructional structuring

• Character design and visual development

• Animation and motion graphics

• Voice performance and narration

• Video editing and pacing optimization

• Sound design and final production

Tools used:

• Adobe After Effects

• Adobe Premiere Pro

• Adobe Illustrator

• Adobe Audition

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Instructional Design Decisions

Key design choices included:

Simplifying abstract science into observable actions
Microscopic processes were visualized through animation to make invisible mechanisms understandable.

Using a consistent instructor character
Moe the Knowbot provides continuity across lessons and creates emotional engagement.

Segmenting information into short instructional units
This improves attention and retention for younger learners.

Balancing education and entertainment
Maintaining narrative engagement ensures learners remain attentive through the full lesson.

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Outcome

The final video successfully translates complex scientific concepts into accessible educational content for young learners. It demonstrates the ability to:

• Analyze learner needs

• Translate complex concepts into clear instructional media

• Design engaging multimedia learning experiences

• Apply visual communication to support learning outcomes

This project reflects my instructional design approach: combining storytelling, visual explanation, and structured learning design to create effective educational experiences.