One-question scenario

Going Beyond Recall Quiz – 1

Read time : 2 minute

In this first article of the “Going Beyond Recall Quiz” series, we explore the concept of the one-question scenario, which serves as the foundational step in the scaffolding process for more advanced learning strategies.

Definition

A one-question scenario, also called a mini-scenario, consists of a multiple-choice question supported by a narrative that presents a concrete situation to the learner. The learner must evaluate the provided information to determine the most appropriate response.

Example

Let’s consider a typical “What should you do” quiz question from a safety training module:

What should you do if you discover a chemical spill on the factory floor?

Ignore it and continue working to avoid disrupting production.
Inform a supervisor and ensure the area is marked off until it can be cleaned.
Try to clean it up yourself immediately without further precautions.
Notify a co-worker to handle the situation for you.

Correct Answer: 2. Inform a supervisor and ensure the area is marked off until it can be cleaned.

While this question works in theory, it doesn’t address the practical reasons why incorrect behaviors might occur. For instance:

“It was a tiny spill. I’ve seen this happen before, and it’s no big deal.”

“The supervisor wasn’t around, but my co-worker has been here for years, so I just told him instead.”

Now, let’s transform this into a one-question scenario:

You are a maintenance technician working the late shift at an industrial facility that manufactures specialty coatings. Most of the team has already left, leaving only essential night-shift workers scattered around the facility.

As you head to the mixing area for an equipment check, you notice a thin, iridescent liquid spreading near the base of a conveyor system. A quick glance suggests it’s a chemical known for causing skin irritation, though the severity of the situation isn’t immediately clear. A mop and cleaning supplies are nearby, left from an earlier task. (Cleaning it would be easy since the supplies are right there.)

An experienced co-worker is working in the same section, absorbed in their tasks but within calling distance. The spill looks small and contained, with no immediate signs of risk to equipment or personnel. The factory’s pace is slow at this hour, and the atmosphere is routine. (The supervisor may not be around, but there’s an alternative nearby. Besides, it doesn’t seem too serious.)

The question and answers remain the same as in the quiz version.

This scenario adds depth and context, prompting learners to consider the real-life factors that might influence their decisions. By immersing them in a realistic situation, learners are tempted to rationalize behaviors like downplaying the spill or handling it themselves—mirroring challenges they might face on the job.

Getting started with SceneHero

Scenarios and higher-order thinking exercises don’t have to be complex. One-question scenarios are a perfect example of this. Tools like SceneHero make it simple to create and deploy such scenarios without technical complexity.

SceneHero offers a fast, intuitive way to design your projects. With features like AI-driven content suggestions and a variety of characters and backgrounds, you can easily go beyond the standard recall quiz. 😊