Testing my design CEP 817

To better engage students in meaningful learning, I developed a prototype that uses realistic simulations to teach key funeral service skills. This assignment focused on practicing a first call—an essential aspect of funeral directing. Designed for my online Funeral Directing Basics course, the activity involved one-on-one role-play phone calls between myself and each student.

Students were introduced to the assignment through a PowerPoint that included a time slot sign-up sheet, a guided worksheet to prepare for the call, and a brief recorded example of a first call. Four students participated in the pilot. They were given several scheduling options and clear instructions on how the call would begin.

During the call, I offered immediate feedback to support learning. Afterward, students were asked to reflect in writing on their experience and share any suggestions for improvement. Their feedback, along with my observations, will help refine the assignment for broader use. This prototype provided a valuable opportunity for students to apply their knowledge in a practical, low-pressure setting.