#GuildChat Preview for 02/27/2015: Free and Low-Cost Tools for Learning

Our next #GuildChat takes place Friday February 27th at 11am PT / 2pm ET. The topic for this chat is Free and Low-Cost Tools for Learning.

2015-01-09_11-14-16There are a wide array of powerful tools that can be used for personal and organizational learning. Many of them have higher costs associated with them, possibly leaving them out-of-reach to organizations with limited budgets.

In this week’s #GuildChat we’re going to explore the wide array of free and low-cost resources that you can use even when budgets shrink. We’ll talk about the types of tools used for learning, and examine cost-effective alternatives to higher-priced tools. We’ll also explore how to extend the usefulness of tools beyond their traditional use cases.

Here are the questions currently scheduled to be posed during the chat.

  • What are you favorite low-cost tools for your personal learning (not the work you do to help others learn)?
  • What are you favorite low-cost tools to help develop learning resources for audiences you support?
  • Are there any tools that you see as NOT having a viable low-cost alternative? Why or why not?
  • Fill in the blanks: I can’t afford __________, so I use __________ as a lower-cost alternative.
  • Are there any barriers or limitations in using low-cost tools? If so, what are they?
  • Aside from price, what are other factors that affect the overall “cost” you associate with a tool?
  • Aside from selecting lower-cost tools, what other tricks can you share for controlling costs related to your learning and performance projects?

Chat Transcript

NOTE: Tweets are listed in the order they were posted and are shown in Eastern Time. To visit the actual posting for a particular tweet, click the associated user name for the posting.

Time User text
2:00 PM eLearningGuild Welcome to #GuildChat, brought to you by @eLearningGuild. Today we’re discussing free and low-cost elearning tools. #eLGuild
2:01 PM eLearningGuild Today’s chat is scheduled to last one hour. We’ll post questions using #GuildChat; be sure to use the hashtag in your tweets.
2:01 PM JD_Dillon Popping into #GuildChat while I hang out for a bit!
2:01 PM JD_Dillon RT @eLearningGuild: Welcome to #GuildChat, brought to you by @eLearningGuild. Today we’re discussing free and low-cost elearning tools. #eL…
2:01 PM JD_Dillon RT @eLearningGuild: Today’s chat is scheduled to last one hour. We’ll post questions using #GuildChat; be sure to use the hashtag in your t…
2:02 PM eLearningGuild Please take a moment to introduce and tell us a bit about yourself. The first question will be posed in three minutes. #GuildChat
2:02 PM BobbiHopkins RT @eLearningGuild: #GuildChat starts in just 5 minutes. We’re discussing free and low-cost elearning tools. Join us! #elguild
2:02 PM opurt11 Chad Lowry, Customer Education Manager, Chicago. Always looking for free stuff. #guildchat
2:02 PM willconstantine Good afternoon and happy Friday! #GuildChat
2:03 PM JD_Dillon RT @eLearningGuild: Please take a moment to introduce and tell us a bit about yourself. The first question will be posed in three minutes. …
2:03 PM avspook In from Dubai  Training Manager Aviation #GuildChat
2:03 PM LnDDave RT @eLearningGuild: Welcome to #GuildChat, brought to you by @eLearningGuild. Today we’re discussing free and low-cost elearning tools. #eL…
2:04 PM LnDDave @JD_Dillon Nice profile pic. #GuildChat
2:04 PM JD_Dillon JD in Orlando, FL. Learning geek w/ Kaplan, presenter, Walking Dead Fan, sharer. #GuildChat
2:04 PM AlwaysBreaking Hi, Gary in NorCal, instructional everything for telecom
#guildchat
2:05 PM willconstantine Will Constantine from NJ. President of LearnHaus http://t.co/ODAbM5i6rW #GuildChat
2:05 PM eLearningGuild Q1) What are you favorite free or low-cost tools for your personal learning (not the work you do to help others learn)? #GuildChat
2:05 PM LnDDave David from @eLearningGuild – looking forward to today’s chat.  #guildchat
2:05 PM marklearns Mark Sheppard, EdTech Geek, Workplace Insider, lover of free tools. East of Toronto. Will be in & out today #GuildChat
2:06 PM JD_Dillon RT @eLearningGuild: Q1) What are you favorite free or low-cost tools for your personal learning (not the work you do to help others learn)?…
2:06 PM willconstantine RT @eLearningGuild: Q1) What are you favorite free or low-cost tools for your personal learning (not the work you do to help others learn)?…
2:06 PM InSyncJennifer Jennifer Hofmann, InSync Training Portland ME  #guildchat
2:06 PM LnDDave RT @eLearningGuild: Q1) What are you favorite free or low-cost tools for your personal learning (not the work you do to help others learn)?…
2:06 PM JD_Dillon A1) Twitter, Google, YouTube, Wikipedia, Coursera … #GuildChat
2:07 PM AlwaysBreaking A1) YouTube. That has to be the tool I use most to learn. #GuildChat.
2:07 PM InSyncJennifer #GuildChat first #twitterchat for me – can’t believe it. Wanted to check out the experience
2:07 PM deacti_vate I’m Rachel! Instructional designer & project manager #guildchat
2:07 PM MelMilloway Stopping by briefly for #guildchat. How is everyone?
2:07 PM willconstantine Q1) Honestly Google and YouTube help me tremendously. I know not that original… #GuildChat
2:07 PM opurt11 Q1) Google News, Twitter, Wikipedia #guildchat
2:07 PM avspook A1) Skybrary YTube Twitter FAA EASA   #GuildChat
2:07 PM MelMilloway RT @eLearningGuild: Q1) What are you favorite free or low-cost tools for your personal learning (not the work you do to help others learn)?…
2:08 PM JD_Dillon @InSyncJennifer pretty soon you’ll be in 5 per week like me! #GuildChat
2:08 PM marklearns Q1) Twitter, hands-down. Facebook less so, with G+, Skype, and LinkedIn tied as distant thirds #GuildChat
2:08 PM InSyncJennifer a1) Skype- constant training instant communication easy to use #guildchat
2:08 PM Learning_Dude Hello. Stephen from Roanoke, Virginia. First time #guildchat using @Hootsuite on my iPad. http://t.co/YlGtewyfYv http://t.co/KlSnx0a8nJ
2:08 PM willconstantine A1) I also learned from one very important and free resource…people #GuildChat
2:08 PM NeonMonkeyLTD First #Twitterchat with #GuildChat – everyday is a learning day.
2:08 PM marklearns @JD_Dillon @InSyncJennifer and NO, we do not need a 12-step program!  ;-)  #GUildchat
2:09 PM JD_Dillon A1) My PLN … #guildchat
2:09 PM LnDDave A1) Twitter is primary. I also use Twitter, and occasionally I’ll use Twitter for variety. :) #GuildChat
2:09 PM Learning_Dude A1) Google, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn. #guildchat
2:09 PM MelMilloway A1 I learn through: LinkedIn, Twitter & Tweetdeck, #ELHChallenge community, our industry’s blogs + other blogs , MOOCs, etc. #guildchat
2:09 PM deacti_vate A1) Coursera, edX, http://t.co/XEoA8YJ5Ht seems to be a great idea too. Also, Ever Learning: http://t.co/1Q3uPN6WXg #guildchat
2:10 PM DigitalHarbor @eLearningGuild #GuildChat I develop eLearning for businesses. Most of my personal learning is in quick bytes: emails/blogs/articles.
2:10 PM marklearns What does Dave like? RT @LnDDave: A1) Twitter is primary. I also use Twitter, and occasionally I’ll use Twitter for variety. :) #GuildChat
2:10 PM heikan2003 RT @willconstantine: A1) I also learned from one very important and free resource…people #GuildChat
2:10 PM NeonMonkeyLTD A1) Google, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn  #GuildChat
2:10 PM LnDDave A1) Often it’s not so much the tools but the people that the tools help me connect to that provide the learning. #GuildChat
2:10 PM Learning_Dude @InSyncJennifer I haven’t used Skype as much for learning. Great point and idea. #guildchat
2:10 PM MelMilloway @deacti_vate edX is my next stop! #guildchat
2:10 PM LnDDave @NeonMonkeyLTD Welcome to the chat! #GuildChat
2:11 PM Learning_Dude @willconstantine Haha! Yeah, I don’t know about that. My wife is driving, so I can be on #guildchat. :)
2:11 PM LnDDave @Learning_Dude @hootsuite Glad to see you’re on the passenger side of the vehicle. :) #GuildChat
2:11 PM JD_Dillon A1) Big fan of HipChat for topical discussion in the workplace … Plenty of idea sharing and learning! #GuildChat
2:11 PM LnDDave RT @InSyncJennifer: a1) Skype- constant training instant communication easy to use #guildchat
2:11 PM willconstantine A1) TED Talks are good if I am looking for different perspectives #GuildChat
2:11 PM AndrewJacobsLD #guildchat A1 Pocket and Evernote – aggregation and filing.
2:11 PM Learning_Dude A1) I’ve found that using the right browser is critical. #guildchat
2:11 PM MelMilloway A1 I also learn from my awesome alumni network! Shout out to Bloomsburg University’s MSIT program. #guildchat
2:12 PM EdTechTV #guildchat – A1) is it too obvious to say Twitter? Nothing else I’ve used has even come close. @eLearningGuild
2:12 PM eLearningGuild Q2) What are you favorite free or low-cost tools to help develop learning resources for audiences you support? #GuildChat
2:12 PM WonderPix RT @NeonMonkeyLTD: A1) Google, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn  #GuildChat >Yep, all go-to’s here too
2:12 PM deacti_vate A1) Also http://t.co/aWjyHXcLya, Twitter/LinkedIn, and Evernote or OneNote to keep track of it all :) #guildchat
2:12 PM sukhpabial @LnDDave have you heard of Twitter? Might be really suited to what you like to do. #guildchat
2:12 PM opurt11 Q2) SnagIt, PureText #guildchat
2:12 PM JD_Dillon RT @eLearningGuild: Q2) What are you favorite free or low-cost tools to help develop learning resources for audiences you support? #GuildCh…
2:13 PM LnDDave RT @eLearningGuild: Q2) What are you favorite free or low-cost tools to help develop learning resources for audiences you support? #GuildCh…
2:13 PM willconstantine @LnDDave @Learning_Dude @hootsuite Speech-to-Tweet integration could potentially be very fun. Where’s that in the Apple Car? #GuildChat
2:13 PM MelMilloway RT @eLearningGuild: Q2) What are you favorite free or low-cost tools to help develop learning resources for audiences you support? #GuildCh…
2:13 PM LnDDave RT @AndrewJacobsLD: #guildchat A1 Pocket and Evernote – aggregation and filing.
2:13 PM willconstantine RT @eLearningGuild: Q2) What are you favorite free or low-cost tools to help develop learning resources for audiences you support? #GuildCh…
2:13 PM heikan2003 A1) on the spot Twitter. Over time http://t.co/ElDvbpKZiF #guildchat
2:13 PM LnDDave RT @sukhpabial: @LnDDave have you heard of Twitter? Might be really suited to what you like to do. #guildchat < I might need to check it out
2:13 PM criticallearner #Guildchat a2) sorry to pop in for one and done, but PDF is v. useful and often overlooked
2:13 PM AlwaysBreaking A2) I use Snagit the most, at least in terms of low cost tools.
#GuildChat.
2:14 PM JD_Dillon A2) Google Apps, Confluence, ZebraZapps, HipChat … #GuildChat
2:14 PM avspook A2) Snagit Camtasia   #GuildChat
2:14 PM deacti_vate A2) E-mail, I take inspiration from @penelopetrunk’s newsletters.  I pick a topic and send a small blurb w/ additional resources. #guildchat
2:14 PM AndrewJacobsLD #guildchat A2 Powtoon, Toonlet, Google docs.
2:14 PM Learning_Dude A2) Google Docs. I use @box and @Dropbox to store and share files. #guildchat
2:14 PM MelMilloway What is the definition of expensive. Do we have a range? #guildchat
2:14 PM willconstantine A2) Evernote, MindMeister, even text capability with Google Voice #GuildChat
2:15 PM LnDDave A2) I find myself starting in Google Apps before even Office – it’s just easier in a collaborative world. #GuildChat
2:15 PM NeonMonkeyLTD A2) #GuildChat @MrWideo has been great to create short bespoke videos
2:15 PM avspook A20 Yes Dropbox!  #GuildChat
2:15 PM LnDDave RT @criticallearner: #Guildchat a2) sorry to pop in for one and done, but PDF is v. useful and often overlooked
2:15 PM s0ngb1rd RT @LnDDave: A2) I find myself starting in Google Apps before even Office – it’s just easier in a collaborative world. #GuildChat
2:15 PM AlwaysBreaking A2) I’m also switching to Keynote instead of PowerPoint. And TextWrangler comes in handy quite often. #guildChat
2:15 PM willconstantine A2) If anyone wants to add to this list @Tracy_Parish created do so! https://t.co/XjZjRGAh6R #GuildChat
2:16 PM JD_Dillon Doh! I should have included EverNote w/ my Q1 answers! #GuildChat
2:16 PM deacti_vate A2) Presentations always have a time and a place, and anyone with a semi modern laptop has access to a webcam for quick videos #guildchat
2:16 PM willconstantine @MelMilloway anything that requires you to spend money #GuildChat
2:16 PM Learning_Dude I’ve started using Delicious for curation so that content can be shared, as opposed to Pocket which is more personal. #guildchat
2:16 PM Learning_Dude @deacti_vate Good idea. #guildchat
2:16 PM AndrewJacobsLD Superb resource RT @willconstantine: A2) If anyone wants to add to this list @Tracy_Parish created do so! https://t.co/pRdHNy05Rt #GuildChat
2:16 PM willconstantine @LnDDave It is becoming now that I wish Office was better. It used to be the opposite #GuildChat
2:17 PM heikan2003 2) I check #elh for ideas and help #guildchat
2:17 PM deacti_vate A2) It also really depends on the infrastructure already in place. There are ways to cheaply use Google Apps, SharePoint, etc. #GuildChat
2:17 PM heikan2003 RT @willconstantine: A2) If anyone wants to add to this list @Tracy_Parish created do so! https://t.co/XjZjRGAh6R #GuildChat
2:17 PM LnDDave A2) Join.me is great for quickly shifting “Let me tell you” to “let me show you”. #GuildChat
2:17 PM willconstantine @JD_Dillon Doh? a deer, a female deer? ;-) #GuildChat
2:17 PM LnDDave RT @avspook: A20 Yes Dropbox!  #GuildChat
2:18 PM MelMilloway @LnDDave Join.me is amazing! #guildchat
2:18 PM JD_Dillon A2) I pretty much live in Google Hangouts … #guildchat
2:18 PM LnDDave RT @MelMilloway: What is the definition of expensive. Do we have a range? #guildchat < It’s relative to individual context
2:18 PM TriciaRansom I like any tool that lets me screenshare what the LEARNER sees. Puts me in their world, and keeps them in their world #GuildChat
2:18 PM willconstantine A2) Pinterest is also a good tool for a visual resource board for job aids, informal communities, etc. #GuildChat
2:19 PM eLearningGuild Q3) Are there any tools that you see as NOT having a viable low-cost alternative? Why or why not? #GuildChat
2:19 PM MelMilloway @JD_Dillon I’m not using it enough. I need to use G+ too. #guildchat
2:19 PM willconstantine @MelMilloway @LnDDave I just used it yesterday to help a client. Teamviewer is also a good tool for that #GuildChat
2:20 PM willconstantine RT @eLearningGuild: Q3) Are there any tools that you see as NOT having a viable low-cost alternative? Why or why not? #GuildChat
2:20 PM JD_Dillon RT @eLearningGuild: Q3) Are there any tools that you see as NOT having a viable low-cost alternative? Why or why not? #GuildChat
2:20 PM Learning_Dude A little off topic, but I’m trying to find a way to curate on Pinterest, and develop a meaningful presence on Instagram. #guildchat
2:21 PM LnDDave RT @AndrewJacobsLD: Superb resource RT @willconstantine: A2) If anyone wants to add to this list @Tracy_Parish created do so! https://t.co/…
2:21 PM TriciaRansom Hi everyone, this is Tricia. What are we chatting about? #guildchat
2:21 PM willconstantine A3) I think that depends on how you use the tool. If the features that are not low cost are the best for its use. #GuildChat
2:21 PM Learning_Dude A3) It’s no longer “You get what you pay for.” There are so many free options available. #guildchat
2:21 PM LnDDave RT @eLearningGuild: Q3) Are there any tools that you see as NOT having a viable low-cost alternative? Why or why not? #GuildChat
2:21 PM MelMilloway RT @eLearningGuild: Q3) Are there any tools that you see as NOT having a viable low-cost alternative? Why or why not? #GuildChat
2:22 PM TriciaRansom @Learning_Dude I only use pinterest to curate see http://t.co/c4Rbi6dtLE #guildchat
2:22 PM heikan2003 @TriciaRansom tools #guildchat
2:22 PM MelMilloway A3 Really interactive virtual classroom services are iffy for low costs. I’m not talking like Skype or Hangouts. #guildchat
2:22 PM Learning_Dude Hardware is difficult to skimp on. It’s tough to find low-cost alternatives to “the good stuff.” #guildchat
2:22 PM JD_Dillon A3) Almost always low-cost or open source alternatives if you’re willing to shift your strategy and upskill to accommodate #guildchat
2:22 PM TriciaRansom RT @eLearningGuild: Q3) Are there any tools that you see as NOT having a viable low-cost alternative? Why or why not? #GuildChat
2:22 PM TriciaRansom Tools to do what? #guildchat
2:23 PM opurt11 Q3) Admittedly, I’m a documentation snob, but I wouldn’t trade FrameMaker for Word, even though Office is included on my laptop. #guildchat
2:23 PM deacti_vate A3) Tools like Articulate Storyline, not a cheaper way to do what they do except custom coding (time/wage cost however)  #guildchat
2:23 PM TriciaRansom a3) any tool for anything in a highly regulated industry (pharma, medical) #guildchat
2:23 PM LnDDave A4) It’s an issue of culture. Lots of things can replace Office, but good luck getting the enterprise to move away from it. #GuildChat
2:24 PM TriciaRansom Any tools? In the whole entire wide world? In the universe?  #guildchat
2:24 PM Learning_Dude For all of its faults and bad rap, Microsoft PowerPoint in my opinion is still hard to beat. #guildchat
2:24 PM AlwaysBreaking @JD_Dillon The cost of shifting strategy might outweigh the cost of a tool, but exploring options is always good. #GuildChat
2:24 PM LnDDave And… I’m time-travelling again. #GuildChat
2:24 PM avspook A3) Storyline/Captivate
#GuildChat
2:24 PM LnDDave RT @TriciaRansom: a3) any tool for anything in a highly regulated industry (pharma, medical) #guildchat
2:24 PM deacti_vate A3) You can argue that you don’t HAVE to have any of the expensive things, learning can happen despite them #guildchat
2:24 PM MelMilloway @TriciaRansom I agree. In many Pharma/big companies you can’t use anything open source. #guildchat
2:24 PM TriciaRansom a4) changing an entire org off a tool/platform to something else is like your org switching payroll systems and paydates #guildchat
2:25 PM avspook You have a peek at the exam paper @LnDDave? #GuildChat
2:25 PM JD_Dillon @AlwaysBreaking Often I find it’s the amount of time/energy it takes to shift mindset rather than $$ that causes the problem #guildchat
2:25 PM LnDDave RT @AlwaysBreaking: @JD_Dillon The cost of shifting strategy might outweigh the cost of a tool, but exploring options is always good. #Guil…
2:25 PM Learning_Dude RT @deacti_vate: A3) You can argue that you don’t HAVE to have any of the expensive things, learning can happen despite them #guildchat
2:25 PM TriciaRansom a5) has anyone mentioned the handy-dandy whiteboard and post-it notes? Pencil and paper? #guildchat
2:26 PM eLearningGuild Q4) Fill in the blanks: I can’t afford __________, so I use __________ as a lower-cost alternative. #GuildChat
2:26 PM LnDDave RT @JD_Dillon: @AlwaysBreaking Often I find it’s the amount of time/energy it takes to shift mindset rather than $$ that causes the problem…
2:26 PM JD_Dillon RT @eLearningGuild: Q4) Fill in the blanks: I can’t afford __________, so I use __________ as a lower-cost alternative. #GuildChat
2:26 PM LnDDave RT @eLearningGuild: Q4) Fill in the blanks: I can’t afford __________, so I use __________ as a lower-cost alternative. #GuildChat
2:27 PM urbie #GuildChat Late.. meeting went long.
2:27 PM TriciaRansom Heres my 2 cents: People will learn. You just don’t know WHAT they’ll learn. It might be that they hate your bells/whistles #guildchat
2:27 PM MelMilloway RT @eLearningGuild: Q4) Fill in the blanks: I can’t afford __________, so I use __________ as a lower-cost alternative. #GuildChat
2:27 PM JD_Dillon A4) CMS; wiki … But I prefer the wiki (open contribution) anyway! #guildchat
2:27 PM opurt11 Q4) Can’t afford to attend a class, so I use a workbook as a low-cost alternative. #guildchat
2:27 PM willconstantine RT @eLearningGuild: Q4) Fill in the blanks: I can’t afford __________, so I use __________ as a lower-cost alternative. #GuildChat
2:28 PM avspook A4) copy typist So I Use a Spell checker as a lower-cost alternative.  #GuildChat
2:28 PM Learning_Dude Sometimes I think we allow fancy tools to distort our perception of what we’re trying to get out of using anything at all. #guildchat
2:28 PM LnDDave RT @JD_Dillon: A4) CMS; wiki … But I prefer the wiki (open contribution) anyway! #guildchat
2:28 PM TriciaRansom We couldn’t afford LMS for SME review so I created a wordpress site for $40  #guildchat
2:28 PM urbie #GuildChat A1 Paper by Fifty Three. Lately I’ve taken to #SketchNote observations. Uploaded they (sometimes) draw feedback. Helps reflect.
2:28 PM JD_Dillon A4) Travel; Google Hangout … But it’s about more than $$ #guildchat
2:28 PM willconstantine A4) I don’t think I can answer this question right now #GuildChat
2:29 PM Learning_Dude I can’t afford a fancy camera, so I use my webcam and call it good. ;) #guildchat
2:29 PM TriciaRansom I can’t afford the time to take full-blown classes, so I #lrnchat and #guildchat
2:29 PM MelMilloway I can’t afford 3DS max, so I use Blender. Not often but there it is. #Guildchat
2:29 PM deacti_vate A4) I actually am not sure if I’ve ran into this problem recently. At one point, I used Google Docs/Open Office for Microsoft #guildchat
2:30 PM MelMilloway RT @TriciaRansom: I can’t afford the time to take full-blown classes, so I #lrnchat and #guildchat
2:30 PM TriciaRansom I can’t afford high-end custom-made graphics so I customize clipart  #guildchat
2:30 PM willconstantine A4) I need to think about it #GuildChat
2:30 PM urbie #GuildChat A1 A few weeks ago @christycate tweeted about @plotagon a free (in app purchases) i use to do rapid prototyping
2:31 PM Learning_Dude I can’t afford to soundproof my room, so I stuff blankets behind my microphone when recording. #guildchat
2:31 PM willconstantine A4) I can’t afford to pay someone to run my company so I do it myself ;-) being silly. #GuildChat
2:31 PM urbie RT @eLearningGuild: Q1) What are you favorite free or low-cost tools for your personal learning (not the work you do to help others learn)?…
2:31 PM urbie RT @eLearningGuild: Q2) What are you favorite free or low-cost tools to help develop learning resources for audiences you support? #GuildCh…
2:31 PM Learning_Dude RT @TriciaRansom: I can’t afford the time to take full-blown classes, so I #lrnchat and #guildchat
2:31 PM LnDDave A4) I never had budget for images, so I was always searching for copyright-free image sources. #GuildChat
2:32 PM Learning_Dude I can’t afford (or justify the cost) of a fancy theme, so I use a WordPress default. http://t.co/YlGtewyfYv #guildchat
2:32 PM TriciaRansom Once upon a time, @AlanMontague couldn’t afford consultants so he hired L&D students from local college #guildchat
2:32 PM urbie #GuildChat A2 This is a hard one. Mostly I develop on client provided PCs (most always Windows). Not much exciting there. 1/2
2:33 PM deacti_vate A4) I guess I can’t afford a whole new degree, so I replace it with a lot of reading and certification courses :) #guildchat
2:33 PM LnDDave A4) I use free audio and video editing tools, and what I need to do with them hasn’t passed the ceiling of their capabilities. #GuildChat
2:33 PM CouponIgnite RT @MelMilloway: Going off of Tricia’s tweet. I can’t afford classes, so I take tutorials/classes on Udemy and Coursera. #Guildchat
2:33 PM MelMilloway Going off of Tricia’s tweet. I can’t afford classes, so I take tutorials/classes on Udemy and Coursera. #Guildchat
2:33 PM willconstantine Learning friends! A colleague asked me this today. Is there a time estimate to convert ILT to virtual training ;-) #GuildChat #lrnchat
2:33 PM LnDDave RT @urbie: #GuildChat A1 A few weeks ago @christycate tweeted about @plotagon a free (in app purchases) i use to do rapid prototyping
2:33 PM TriciaRansom I can’t afford a recording studio, so I use a cardboard box stuffed w/sweatshirts #guildchat
2:33 PM heikan2003 @LnDDave me too #morguefile is my friend #guildchat
2:33 PM Ready2Encourage RT @willconstantine: A2) If anyone wants to add to this list @Tracy_Parish created do so! https://t.co/XjZjRGAh6R #GuildChat
2:33 PM avspook A4)
Free background music #GuildChat
2:33 PM TriciaRansom I can’t afford a trip to Hawaii, so I drool over pictures #guildchat
2:34 PM eLearningGuild Q5) Are there any barriers or limitations in using low-cost tools? If so, what are they? #GuildChat
2:34 PM willconstantine A4) I use http://t.co/3HWMJ6pyaK for my website until I can afford a web designer #GuildChat
2:34 PM JaneBozarth RT @TriciaRansom: I can’t afford the time to take full-blown classes, so I #lrnchat and #guildchat
2:34 PM deacti_vate A4) A lot of my “I can’t affords” are also “I don’t needs” such as free Audacity vs paid Soundforge, etc. Audacity serves my need #guildchat
2:35 PM willconstantine @TriciaRansom I use a 3-fold project board with a comforter over it or I go in my closet #GuildChat
2:35 PM TriciaRansom I can’t afford to lose all my work if laptop crashes so I use MULTIPLE cloud-based backup systems #guildchat
2:35 PM willconstantine RT @eLearningGuild: Q5) Are there any barriers or limitations in using low-cost tools? If so, what are they? #GuildChat
2:35 PM Learning_Dude RT @willconstantine: A2) If anyone wants to add to this list @Tracy_Parish created do so! https://t.co/XjZjRGAh6R #GuildChat
2:35 PM avspook A5) Downloadining the “free” item  working with it then seeing a watermark or limited output – time wasted #GuildChat
2:35 PM urbie #GuildChat A2 2/2 Ideas start on iPad. Paper, Plotagon, ThingLink, Make Beliefs, YAKiT. Disclosure: deliverables seldom resemble orig idea.
2:35 PM NeonMonkeyLTD A5) unable to personalise, and the use of water marques, time limitations  #GuildChat
2:35 PM urbie RT @eLearningGuild: Q3) Are there any tools that you see as NOT having a viable low-cost alternative? Why or why not? #GuildChat
2:36 PM willconstantine A5) Sometimes formats are not compatible so that’s an issue. Or someone else is not using the tool. #GuildChat
2:36 PM Learning_Dude @heikan2003 @LnDDave I use @unsplash. #guildchat
2:36 PM deacti_vate A5) Possibly expanding your knowledge. I only know audio editing up to what Audacity is capable of. #guildchat
2:36 PM TriciaRansom a5) My mother always says that the only barriers/limitations you’ll ever face are the ones you acknowledge #guildchat
2:36 PM willconstantine A5) More of the unique features that make a difference are not included in the low cost tool #GuildChat
2:36 PM LnDDave RT @eLearningGuild: Q5) Are there any barriers or limitations in using low-cost tools? If so, what are they? #GuildChat
2:37 PM LnDDave RT @avspook: A5) Downloadining the “free” item  working with it then seeing a watermark or limited output – time wasted #GuildChat
2:37 PM HR_JJ A4) I can’t afford full-time school program, so I use @lynda courses as a lower-cost alternative. #GuildChat
2:37 PM TriciaRansom a5) you’d be surprised at what you can do w/low cost tools if you don’t know the tools limitation #guildchat
2:37 PM urbie #GuildChat A3 Articulate-class deliverables are way beyond what I can (now) produce on my iPad. Which is fine. iPad is pure creativity app.
2:37 PM deacti_vate A5) Ease of use. There are Photoshop alternatives, but typically takes a lot more effort to produce the same result. #guildchat
2:37 PM Learning_Dude A5) Limitations on capabilities. Watermarks. Time limits on use. #guildchat
2:38 PM LnDDave A5) I’m shocked no one has said “I.T. won’t approve the use of XYZ tool” yet. #GuildChat
2:38 PM TriciaRansom a5) part of my research into lower cost are my non-negotiables (watermarks, timelimits, etc) #guildchat
2:38 PM willconstantine A4) I can’t afford a BA in Neuroscience from MIT so I take a MOOC from MIT instead #GuildChat
2:38 PM 1MalachiD RT @InSyncJennifer: a1) Skype- constant training instant communication easy to use #guildchat
2:38 PM TriciaRansom By the time they know, it’s too late RT @LnDDave A5) I’m shocked no one has said “I.T. won’t approve the use of XYZ tool” yet. #GuildChat
2:38 PM LnDDave A5) In some orgs I’ve been at, the first barrier for using a free tool was the I.T. firewall. #GuildChat
2:38 PM urbie #GuildChat A3 Articulate and others are high-end tools with all sorts of widgets. The design ethos of iPad is a lot more personal.
2:38 PM Learning_Dude Appearances. It might look “cheap” if you use a trial version, or free software as opposed to the real deal. #guildchat
2:38 PM avspook IT has noc clue what we do ;) LnDDave #GuildChat
2:39 PM heikan2003 A5) not finding the free image in a timely manner when I could have cheaply purchased it #guildchat
2:39 PM 1MalachiD RT @InSyncJennifer: #GuildChat first #twitterchat for me – can’t believe it. Wanted to check out the experience
2:39 PM urbie RT @willconstantine: A2) Evernote, MindMeister, even text capability with Google Voice #GuildChat
2:39 PM SimonBlairTrain @LnDDave So true about IT! Maybe most people are using their own (vs corp) machines. #guildchat
2:39 PM urbie RT @LnDDave: A4) It’s an issue of culture. Lots of things can replace Office, but good luck getting the enterprise to move away from it. #G…
2:39 PM AlwaysBreaking A5) Support. The time it takes to learn and setup some open source tools can be a burden. #guildchat
2:39 PM urbie RT @eLearningGuild: Q4) Fill in the blanks: I can’t afford __________, so I use __________ as a lower-cost alternative. #GuildChat
2:39 PM TriciaRansom a5) If IT won’t let me download the tool, i put my work on the cloud, and use the tool at home #guildchat
2:40 PM deacti_vate A5) Lower quality products, a non interactive Google Slides vs. a Storyline course. But still need the skill to make effective. #guildchat
2:40 PM LnDDave RT @heikan2003: A5) not finding the free image in a timely manner when I could have cheaply purchased it #guildchat
2:40 PM willconstantine A5) Restriction is a great push for creativity. Low cost tool allows you to innovate and create better than the all power tool #GuildChat
2:40 PM urbie #GuildChat A4 I can’t afford Avid so I use Pinnacle Studio, Green Screen and many other apps to do similar things piecemeal.
2:40 PM LnDDave RT @AlwaysBreaking: A5) Support. The time it takes to learn and setup some open source tools can be a burden. #guildchat
2:40 PM JD_Dillon Gotta run, kids! Thanks for the Friday #guildchat fun. Cya in Orlando for #LSCon, #EcoCon, and #ATD2015!
2:41 PM deacti_vate .@Learning_Dude “if it looks outdated, does that mean your training is outdated too?” #guildchat
2:41 PM urbie RT @eLearningGuild: Q5) Are there any barriers or limitations in using low-cost tools? If so, what are they? #GuildChat
2:41 PM eLearningGuild Q6) Aside from price, what are other factors that affect the overall “cost” you associate with a tool? #GuildChat
2:41 PM TriciaRansom a5) If tool restricts me in one way (ie lack interactivity), I push myself to find solution (on a piece of paper, write down….  #guildchat
2:41 PM LnDDave A5) The “you get what you pay for” issue; who helps you when you run into an issue with a free tool? #GuildChat
2:42 PM LnDDave RT @eLearningGuild: Q6) Aside from price, what are other factors that affect the overall “cost” you associate with a tool? #GuildChat
2:42 PM avspook A6) ease of use – time to get productive  #GuildChat
2:42 PM NeonMonkeyLTD Q6) output choices, sharing, and learning curve #GuildChat
2:42 PM willconstantine RT @eLearningGuild: Q6) Aside from price, what are other factors that affect the overall “cost” you associate with a tool? #GuildChat
2:42 PM heikan2003 @AlwaysBreaking sometimes there is no support at all for neat tools #guildchat
2:42 PM urbie #GuildChat A5 Cultural issues challenging, a matter of scope. Mobile devices that run apps are personal. The cloud makes for easy sharing.
2:42 PM TriciaRansom The Googles RT @LnDDave A5) The “you get what you pay for” issue; who helps you when you run into an issue with a free tool? #GuildChat
2:43 PM McGough3R I have found that with some searching you can usually find free tech tools for classroom use. #GuildChat
2:43 PM deacti_vate A6) Learning curve, efficiency of using it vs another tool, what are most people already comfortable with #guildchat
2:43 PM willconstantine A6) Cost of time to learn it, cost of getting the same result in a longer time span, cost to the learner for quality #GuildChat
2:43 PM SimonBlairTrain A6: Like @heikan2003 and @alwaysbreaking said, time is a big one! #guildchat
2:43 PM AlwaysBreaking A6) Ramp-up time and effort. If I can’t find resources via Google that can help me, that tool isn’t an option. #guildchat
2:43 PM TriciaRansom a6) My costs=service, community, cost/use #guildchat
2:43 PM heikan2003 A6) ease of use is #1 for me. Time is for design #guildchat
2:43 PM deacti_vate A6) Will it help in creating EFFECTIVE learning, not just more unnecessary bells and whistles  #guildchat
2:44 PM urbie #GuildChat A5 #Mobile apps comparable to desktop/laptop workhorses? No. But for certain things like ideation, rapid prototype hard to beat.
2:44 PM LnDDave A5) The costs associated with making the change. #GuildChat
2:44 PM marklearns Agreed. It’s a risk RT @LnDDave: A5) The “you get what you pay for” issue; who helps when you run into an issue with a free tool? #GuildChat
2:44 PM urbie RT @eLearningGuild: Q6) Aside from price, what are other factors that affect the overall “cost” you associate with a tool? #GuildChat
2:45 PM McGough3R A6: The tool has to somehow provide me an advantage that I would not otherwise have had without the tool. #GuildChat
2:45 PM marklearns A6) Learning curve, ability to give feedback to provider, developer, flexibility/scalability #guildchat
2:45 PM urbie #GuildChat A6 Most costly consideration? Inertia.
2:45 PM TriciaRansom a6) does it do EVERYTHING I need it to do? And some of what I want?  #guildchat
2:45 PM LnDDave A6) There are always hidden costs in a learning curve for those that need to use the new tool. #GuildChat
2:45 PM LnDDave RT @urbie: #GuildChat A6 Most costly consideration? Inertia.
2:46 PM TriciaRansom a6) viability of vendor. Will they be out of business in 2 months? #guildchat
2:46 PM McGough3R @urbie Inertia is a difficult hurdle for tech implementation. #GuildChat
2:46 PM urbie #GuildChat A6 Right up there with ‘not invented here’ is ‘been doing it this way so long why change?’
2:46 PM marklearns A6) Does it replace “costs” I really dislike with other tools with ones I can live with? #guildchat
2:47 PM urbie #GuildChat A6 Occasionally I ask clients to suspend disbelief long enough to look at what a motivated engaged person can do with quick/cheap
2:47 PM LnDDave A6) Dependency Risk; free tools, especially web-based ones, can literally disappear in an instant. #GuildChat #IStillMissGoogleReader
2:47 PM urbie RT @deacti_vate: A6) Will it help in creating EFFECTIVE learning, not just more unnecessary bells and whistles  #guildchat
2:47 PM LnDDave RT @urbie: #GuildChat A6 Right up there with ‘not invented here’ is ‘been doing it this way so long why change?’
2:47 PM TriciaRansom a6) adoptability and adaptability to future uses and other groups #guildchat
2:47 PM R0ssGarner RT @LnDDave: A6) Dependency Risk; free tools, especially web-based ones, can literally disappear in an instant. #GuildChat #IStillMissGoogl…
2:48 PM willconstantine A6) are you really saving or is the cost just being moved or translated somewhere else? #GuildChat
2:48 PM eLearningGuild Q7) Aside from selecting lower-cost tools, what tips do you have for controlling elearning project costs?  #GuildChat
2:48 PM urbie RT @eLearningGuild: Q7) Aside from selecting lower-cost tools, what tips do you have for controlling elearning project costs?  #GuildChat
2:48 PM deacti_vate A6) Does it have great support because it’s paid? Google is awesome, but you can’t personally call their support team. #guildchat
2:49 PM LnDDave A6) The free tool’s ability to handle edits to your existing content. #GuildChat
2:49 PM willconstantine RT @eLearningGuild: Q7) Aside from selecting lower-cost tools, what tips do you have for controlling elearning project costs?  #GuildChat
2:49 PM LnDDave RT @eLearningGuild: Q7) Aside from selecting lower-cost tools, what tips do you have for controlling elearning project costs?  #GuildChat
2:49 PM urbie #GuildChat A6 Attention spans max out ~ 20 minutes. Why make a longer course?
2:49 PM deacti_vate A7) Having clear communication channels. Effective ways of rounding up reviews from stakeholders. Having one key decision maker. #guildchat
2:49 PM NeonMonkeyLTD Q7) Clear guidelines and requirements gathering from the very start of the project  #GuildChat
2:49 PM avspook a7) defined project deadlines & single point for control/decsions  #GuildChat
2:49 PM TriciaRansom It’s all about the support. There is a tool that we use here that shall remain nameless…their service is worse than Comcast #guildchat
2:49 PM marklearns A7) Go small…micro assets & incremental adjustments will cost less in the long run than a massive “hope for the home run” sol’n #guildchat
2:50 PM urbie #GuildChat A7 I do lots of advocacy for much smaller (single-screen then go out and make something to demo mastery) learning experiences 1/2
2:50 PM LnDDave A7) Tools for controlling elearning costs: Planning and communicating and planning and communicating and planning… #GuildChat
2:50 PM deacti_vate A7) Tasks & deadlines are clear. Cut down on information overloads (that just lead to more unnecessary development). #guildchat
2:50 PM TriciaRansom a6) The biggest cost I consider is my efficiency. Will it help me to work faster, smarter, easier? #guildchat
2:50 PM willconstantine A7) repurposing or edting assets that you have, brand consistency, #GuildChat
2:50 PM urbie #GuildChat A7 Most of the time the ideas go nowhere. But it’s really about getting people to begin to consider alternatives.
2:51 PM heikan2003 A7) agreements in place for scope, objective, and some deliverables #guildchat
2:51 PM marklearns @deacti_vate …thats why one of my authoring tools requirements is integrated commentary & reviews. #guildchat
2:51 PM urbie RT @marklearns: A7) Go small…micro assets & incremental adjustments will cost less in the long run than a massive “hope for the home run”…
2:51 PM deacti_vate A7) Recognize & prevent scope creep. http://t.co/XKNWtjC249 #guildchat
2:51 PM TriciaRansom a7) Biggest tip I have to control project costs is this: Learn to say NO in multiple ways. No is your best friend #guildchat
2:51 PM LnDDave A7) Nothing cuts development time as much as truly knowing all of the functionality – and shortcuts – of the tools you use. #GuildChat
2:52 PM AlwaysBreaking A7) Reuse and Templates  – standardize production processes and reuse as much as you can. #guildchat
2:52 PM LnDDave RT @willconstantine: A7) repurposing or edting assets that you have, brand consistency, #GuildChat
2:52 PM LnDDave RT @NeonMonkeyLTD: Q7) Clear guidelines and requirements gathering from the very start of the project  #GuildChat
2:52 PM willconstantine A7) UI/UX think about learner costs. Additional learning time outside what you have created costs money too #GuildChat
2:52 PM deacti_vate A7) Always agree to what the scope is to begin with, for internal or external projects. #guildchat
2:52 PM SimonBlairTrain @willconstantine: repurposing or edting assets that you have #GuildChat <- and watching out for ones you can save for later
2:53 PM marklearns @LnDDave I would add to that, knowing when to let a tools expert take over instead of you slogging it out. #guildchat
2:53 PM Ready2Encourage RT @LnDDave: A7) Nothing cuts development time as much as truly knowing all of the functionality – and shortcuts – of the tools you use. #G…
2:53 PM TriciaRansom a7) Create a process/plan geared towards each person’s strengths. You’re good w/SMEs, you do that. You can whip out videos? GO #guildchat
2:53 PM InSyncJennifer #guildchat you have obviously had a lot of experience with this format of communicating
2:53 PM LnDDave A7) Not starting from a place of “creation”. The chances are someone, somewhere, has already solved the problem. #GuildChat
2:53 PM urbie #GuildChat A7 Prototype w/clients/customer at the table. Ideally you’d have learner (newbie) breathing down your neck going on about misses.
2:54 PM LnDDave RT @marklearns: @LnDDave I would add to that, knowing when to let a tools expert take over instead of you slogging it out. #guildchat
2:54 PM willconstantine A7) I think awareness will help you keep costs down. Always be aware. #GuildChat
2:54 PM deacti_vate A7) Use your personal learning network. Don’t spend hours looking for how to do something, ASK! #guildchat
2:54 PM TriciaRansom a7) If someone has already invented the wheel, get their permission to use said wheel, and slap your logo on that puppy #guildchat
2:54 PM urbie RT @deacti_vate: A7) Tasks & deadlines are clear. Cut down on information overloads (that just lead to more unnecessary development). #guil…
2:54 PM marklearns RT @LnDDave: A7) Not starting from a place of “creation”. The chances are someone, somewhere, has already solved the problem. #GuildChat
2:55 PM LnDDave RT @deacti_vate: A7) Use your personal learning network. Don’t spend hours looking for how to do something, ASK! #guildchat
2:55 PM eLearningGuild Time is drawing short. Any final thoughts you’d like to share about today’s topic? #GuildChat
2:55 PM NeonMonkeyLTD RT @TriciaRansom: a7) If someone has already invented the wheel, get their permission to use said wheel, and slap your logo on that puppy #…
2:55 PM marklearns @urbie A7) lots of free prototyping tools out there to help make that happen for you #guildchat
2:55 PM willconstantine A side note, I can’t believe all the huff and puff over the colors of a dress. Talk about varying perspectives.  #GuildChat
2:55 PM urbie #GuildChat A7 Develop as many assets yourself as possible. My take is we strive way too much for professional quality. Forget Oscar.
2:55 PM deacti_vate RT @LnDDave A7) Not starting from a place of “creation”. The chances are someone, somewhere, has already solved the problem. #GuildChat
2:56 PM LnDDave A7) Stay informed about the choices and options that are available to you; it’s helps you be more efficient. #GuildChat
2:56 PM eLearningGuild Interested in contributing to our new Technology & Training blog series? Contact @LnDDave for details. http://t.co/fXst6lFvff  #GuildChat
2:56 PM LnDDave RT @eLearningGuild: Time is drawing short. Any final thoughts you’d like to share about today’s topic? #GuildChat
2:56 PM avspook Low cost can be effective & interesting   #GuildChat
2:56 PM willconstantine I think #TheDress is conspiracy from the eye doctors to make more money this year #GuildChat
2:56 PM deacti_vate A7) Always remember there’s always more than one way to do something “right” – don’t get hung up over details & create more work #guildchat
2:56 PM LnDDave RT @urbie: #GuildChat A7 Develop as many assets yourself as possible. My take is we strive way too much for professional quality. Forget Os…
2:56 PM marklearns @willconstantine …especially when two escaped Llamas were the real focus of things. ;-)  #Guildchat
2:57 PM LnDDave @urbie Yep. I’m not sure when “Good enough” became seen as a bad thing. #GuildChat
2:57 PM heikan2003 Thanks for some new ideas #guildchat
2:57 PM LnDDave RT @eLearningGuild: Interested in contributing to our new Technology & Training blog series? Contact @LnDDave for details. http://t.co/fXst…
2:57 PM eLearningGuild Take a deep dive into elearning tools via the Tools track at the Learning Solutions Conference next month: http://t.co/sLWs2701gd #GuildChat
2:58 PM marklearns @LnDDave @urbie probably when ROI started taking hold of things #guildchat
2:58 PM deacti_vate The focus shouldn’t be “use tool X to create Y” – the focus should be “Learners need to know how to do Z – how do we get there?” #guildchat
2:58 PM willconstantine @marklearns they escaped because they are trying to find their dresses! #GuildChat
2:58 PM LnDDave RT @eLearningGuild: Take a deep dive into elearning tools via the Tools track at the Learning Solutions Conference next month: http://t.co/…
2:58 PM urbie RT @eLearningGuild: Take a deep dive into elearning tools via the Tools track at the Learning Solutions Conference next month: http://t.co/…
2:59 PM willconstantine Great chat today everyone! Enjoy your weekend! #GuildChat
2:59 PM eLearningGuild Join us for #GuildChat next week! We’ll be discussing using multimedia in learning programs. Get a preview here: http://t.co/epwlOJH6UH
2:59 PM urbie RT @eLearningGuild: Interested in contributing to our new Technology & Training blog series? Contact @LnDDave for details. http://t.co/fXst…
2:59 PM urbie RT @eLearningGuild: Join us for #GuildChat next week! We’ll be discussing using multimedia in learning programs. Get a preview here: http:/…
2:59 PM SimonBlairTrain @LnDDave @urbie Can we blame Charles Osgood for that? :-) Seriously, though, “will it work?” should trump “is it pretty/fancy?” #guildchat
2:59 PM marklearns @willconstantine now why didn’t I think of that???  #guildchat #llamachat
2:59 PM willconstantine I have a new blog post on 70-20-10. Would love feedback. http://t.co/3nZSdS2sOi #LearnHaus #GuildChat
3:00 PM LnDDave RT @eLearningGuild: Join us for #GuildChat next week! We’ll be discussing using multimedia in learning programs. Get a preview here: http:/…
3:00 PM willconstantine RT @eLearningGuild: Join us for #GuildChat next week! We’ll be discussing using multimedia in learning programs. Get a preview here: http:/…
3:00 PM deacti_vate If you’re a redditor, join the /r/instructionaldesign community!  http://t.co/uf58IVUP6u #guildchat
3:00 PM LnDDave Thanks for another great #GuildChat everyone. We’ll see you here again next week!
3:00 PM eLearningGuild Thanks for joining #GuildChat everyone. We’ll see you next week. Have a great weekend!

 

Written by

David Kelly is the CEO of The Learning Guild. Prior to joining The Learning Guild, David spent more than 15 years in senior management learning and performance roles, including serving as SVP at New York Community Bancorp and in VP roles at Carver Federal Savings Bank and ACLD. He is a leading voice exploring how technology can be used to enhance training, education, learning, and organizational performance. David is an active member of the learning community and frequently contributes to the industry by writing and speaking at industry events. He is known for his curation efforts, especially related to conferences and events for learning and performance professionals.

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