In 2010 I had come across a short article by ASTD “ The Guerra Scale” and was inspired to write a short manual/article “Guerra Scale and Moodle”. This got me thinking about linking their concept with Moodle.
The basic concept behind the Guerras Scale is the scale outlines the range of content that can be found and used online. It is a scale of one to ten with an increase in interactivity, in which one involves the common experience of simply reading notes/text on screen and ten which denotes total virtual reality.
Each step up the scale “represents an increase in complexity, functionality, development time, demands for programming skill, demands for instructions design versatility, and demands for more patience and attention from subject matter experts.
Guerra Scale Characteristics
• GS1 is a simple PDF file document.
• GS2 is what many folks in the industry deem a page turner.
• GS3 adds what we refer to as dynamic feedback to tests.
• GS4 integrates movement to the text and graphics.
• GS5 adds elements of multimedia, including audio and static or moving graphics.
• GS6 enables users to input information, which results in a printable workbook after
completion of the module.
• GS7 provides users with a knowledge repository in a number of possible ways.
• GS8 adds realistic simulations that use a branching methodology
• GS9 adds real life coaching from top performers and managers.(Role Playing)
• GS10 virtual reality simulations.
Guerra and Hefferman refer to a zone between GS4 (Guerra’s Scale) and GS7 as the “MTV Culture”; studies indicate that to maintain learners level of engagement it was advisable to place activities and sub activities within this zone ie:-
• Motion (in text, powerpoint etc)
• Multimedia (Video, static photos, audio)
• user input workbook (printable at end)
• and knowledge repository (communities: Wiki, Blog, Twitter)
Beyond Scale 10
Since the development of the Guerra Scale, there have been many advances in technology and interactive media that have led to the creation of even more immersive and interactive experiences. It is possible that some of these experiences, such as fully immersive virtual reality or interactive experiences that involve haptic feedback or other sensory inputs, could be considered to be beyond the range of the Guerra Scale.
Some examples of technologies that might be considered to surpass level 10 on the Guerra Scale could include:
Virtual Reality (VR) headsets: These devices use a combination of computer graphics, sensors, and displays to create immersive 3D environments that users can experience through their sense of sight, sound, and touch. VR headsets can be used for a variety of purposes, including entertainment, gaming, and training simulations.
Augmented Reality (AR) systems: These technologies enhance the real world with computer-generated elements, such as graphics, text, and audio, which can be overlaid on the user’s view of the environment. AR systems can be accessed through devices such as smartphones, tablets, or specialised glasses.
Mixed Reality (MR) systems: These technologies blend aspects of both VR and AR to create a hybrid environment that combines the real and virtual worlds in a seamless and interactive way. MR systems can allow users to interact with virtual objects and environments as if they were real, and can be accessed through devices such as VR/AR headsets or specialised displays.
It’s important to note that these technologies are still in the early stages of development and are not yet widely available or fully mature. They also present their own challenges and limitations, and it remains to be seen how they will be used and adopted in education and other fields.
However, it is also important to note that the level of interactivity is not the only factor to consider when evaluating the effectiveness or value of a piece of online content. Other factors, such as the quality of the content, the relevance to the user, and the overall user experience, can also be important considerations.
