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Frequently Asked Questions

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The application period for the 2018 cohort will be open from Monday, September 11 through Friday, October 20, 2017.

What are the dates of the fellowship?

The 2018 ELI Fellowship will be from January 9 to June 20, 2018. Specific details about the curriculum and schedule will be provided to accepted candidates.

What will I create during the fellowship?

You will create a quick-learn module during the program (view product examples). A quick-learn focuses on a single learning objective, takes less than 20 minutes for a learner to complete, and is accessible on desktop computers and mobile devices. Participants are required to post the final product on TRAIN, a national learning network that provides quality training opportunities for professionals who protect and improve the public’s health. The course must be posted on national TRAIN or one of its affiliates (states, national organizations, educational institutions, or agencies such as CDC TRAIN) and present the completed product at the final showcase in Atlanta.

Will I learn how to use a particular authoring software (e.g., Lectora, Storyline, Captivate) during the fellowship?

No. Authoring tools are discussed and mentors may have experience using some authoring tools, but skills training for particular tools is not offered. Learning an authoring tool during the fellowship is not recommended. The focus is on identifying and using best practices during e-learning development. You will learn universally applicable techniques for creating sound e-learning products, regardless of authoring platform.

Do I need to have authoring software or any other computer tools or equipment to participate?

Specific authoring software is not required. You should at a minimum have Microsoft PowerPoint and access to a web developer. You should also have a VoIP microphone for use during webinars.


Is it important to have a topic identified prior to the start of the program?

Yes. We recommended that you identify at least 2–3 topic ideas before the program starts. Topics should directly relate to work duties and focus on public health.


Will I need to attend webinars or other learning activities during my workday?

Yes. The program consists of online course work, webinars, and group discussions. Webinars and group discussions typically are held during the workday (Fridays at 2:00 PM Eastern Standard Time). You should expect to attend up to 7 webinars or group discussions.


Will I have to work on my project outside of normal work hours?

Yes. Design and development of an e-learning product requires considerable effort. In addition to allocating 2-3 hours per week during business hours, past fellows reported spending up to 10 hours of personal time per week once starting design and development of the product.


Am I expected to work with others, or will I complete a solo project?

You will be paired with a mentor or mentor pair to guide you during the fellowship; however, the responsibility for completing the project is yours. Mentors are experienced public health e-learning instructional designers or developers. Your mentor will work closely with you to enhance the learning experience and guide you as you develop a quality e-learning product. There are also opportunities to learn from other fellows via discussion boards and reviewing each other’s work in the collaborative environment.

Is there a cost to participate? An application fee?

There is no cost to apply or participate.

Is any travel required?

Yes. An in-person meeting and the final showcase will be held at CDC in Atlanta, Georgia. Travel and lodging arrangements will be coordinated by the Public Health Foundation (PHF).

Who sponsors the CDC E-learning Institute?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) organizes and leads ELI. The Public Health Foundation (PHF) partners with CDC to support the marketing, evaluation, and organization of the in-person meeting and final showcase in Atlanta.

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