I'm finding that developing a course script for a course that needs audio narration quite tricky, when the client provides me with content in the form of PPT. Does anyone have any tips for me or resources I could access to help with the process?
typically, how many times could a script be revised before a client signs it off? I feel like I am rewording the same stuff over and over and cannot seem to think of any other ways to say the same thing.
Great question! When I first started out, I really struggled with the script writing process as well.
I would first suggest going through all of the content to identify your learning objectives and write towards that. As for the actual writing process, it will take some time to find your "voice." I'd suggest writing in a conversational tone - almost like you're writing a story. Maybe start the course with a scenario or something similar.
As for review cycles, that's something you'll need to determine with your client. Depending on how well you capture the information and how well your clients provide feedback, the process could go really quick. Your hardest challenge will be convincing your clients that not all of the information they provide needs to be included in the final course.
I never have trouble writing scripts, but maybe I've just been lucky so far!
For me the key is to completely disregard the writing style (if any) that I receive. I narrow the information down to the absolute minimum necessary, phrase it in the most straightforward possible way, then write it the same way I'd explain it to you in person.
Try this: Picture your learner sitting right there with you. (Better yet - grab an unsuspecting non-elearning-professional volunteer for a few minutes!) Now read your script to him or her to explain whatever you're trying to convey. Does that feel natural and normal to both you and your explainee? Or does it feel stilted, strange, or a bit odd? Work on it until it sounds like one human conveying real information to another in the most genuine way possible, and you're on the right track.
I've never gone through endless rounds of rewrites and don't know what the issues might be with your approvers, so I'm afraid I can't help much there - but I certainly wish you the best of luck!
Lucia - what are the SPECIFIC problems that are causing the re-writes?
If it's because they want the script to sound like THEIR voice, perhaps reverse thing...suggest that (in order to save time and money), THEY write the script, and you do the technical editing.
@Bruce - Thanks Bruce - yes - may do that next time. It's German client so the problems are coming in with their version of English vs mine. They say my English is changing the meaning of what they are trying to say. Tricky one, but we are slowly getting there.
@Jackie - Thanks - will imagine the learner sitting other side if my desk
@Tim - fabulous tips - thanks, I have pinned them to my Pinterest Boards.
Conversation is the key element. I think I'm trying to sound too formal. Need to shake presentation mode out!
4 Replies
Hi Lucia,
Great question! When I first started out, I really struggled with the script writing process as well.
I would first suggest going through all of the content to identify your learning objectives and write towards that. As for the actual writing process, it will take some time to find your "voice." I'd suggest writing in a conversational tone - almost like you're writing a story. Maybe start the course with a scenario or something similar.
As for review cycles, that's something you'll need to determine with your client. Depending on how well you capture the information and how well your clients provide feedback, the process could go really quick. Your hardest challenge will be convincing your clients that not all of the information they provide needs to be included in the final course.
Here are a few resources that might help:
I'm sure others in the community will have plenty of other great tips. Let us know if you have any other questions! Best of luck!
Tim
Hi Lucia!
I never have trouble writing scripts, but maybe I've just been lucky so far!
For me the key is to completely disregard the writing style (if any) that I receive. I narrow the information down to the absolute minimum necessary, phrase it in the most straightforward possible way, then write it the same way I'd explain it to you in person.
Try this: Picture your learner sitting right there with you. (Better yet - grab an unsuspecting non-elearning-professional volunteer for a few minutes!) Now read your script to him or her to explain whatever you're trying to convey. Does that feel natural and normal to both you and your explainee? Or does it feel stilted, strange, or a bit odd? Work on it until it sounds like one human conveying real information to another in the most genuine way possible, and you're on the right track.
I've never gone through endless rounds of rewrites and don't know what the issues might be with your approvers, so I'm afraid I can't help much there - but I certainly wish you the best of luck!
Lucia - what are the SPECIFIC problems that are causing the re-writes?
If it's because they want the script to sound like THEIR voice, perhaps reverse thing...suggest that (in order to save time and money), THEY write the script, and you do the technical editing.
Might be worth a try?
@Bruce - Thanks Bruce - yes - may do that next time. It's German client so the problems are coming in with their version of English vs mine. They say my English is changing the meaning of what they are trying to say. Tricky one, but we are slowly getting there.
@Jackie - Thanks - will imagine the learner sitting other side if my desk
@Tim - fabulous tips - thanks, I have pinned them to my Pinterest Boards.
Conversation is the key element. I think I'm trying to sound too formal. Need to shake presentation mode out!
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