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ResourceGamma · Micro-learning
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The DEAA Framework

A microlearning resource that introduces new managers to the DEAA framework—Define, Explore, Act, Assess—a repeatable approach for conducting difficult workplace conversations.

Notes for reviewers
  • Spanish translation forthcoming.
  • Voiceover scripting in progress.
  • Designed in Gamma, finalized in Canva.
Training time
10 minutes (self-paced)
Role
Sole Instructional Designer
Languages
English (Spanish forthcoming)
Built in
Gamma, Canva
Skills
  • Needs analysis
  • Scenario-based learning design
  • Rapid prototyping in Gamma.app
  • Bilingual localization (EN/ES)
  • Canva for design finalization
AAnalyze

Problem

Newly promoted managers were avoiding difficult coaching conversations, defaulting to either silence or directive feedback. No training existed for preparing newly-hired or promoted managers for engaging in productive conversations with the employees they supervise.

Findings

Show findings4
Finding #1
Managers avoid coaching conversations because they lack a repeatable structure, not because they lack willingness.
  • "I know I should have the conversation. I just don't know how to start it."
  • "I default to telling them what to do; at least that feels productive."
  • 5 of 6 interviewees described a coaching conversation they had recently avoided.
Finding #2
A majority of managers defaulted to directive feedback when they were unsure what to ask.
  • "Questions feel slow. Telling is faster."
  • Directive responses outnumbered coaching questions 3:1 in role-play transcripts.
Finding #3
Managers wanted to practice a realistic scenario, not sit through more theory.
  • "Give me the actual situation and let me try it."
  • "The lecture made sense in the room but evaporated by Monday."
Finding #4
A shared vocabulary—Define, Explore, Act, Assess—lowered the perceived difficulty of starting a conversation.
  • In pilot walkthroughs, naming the current stage visibly reduced hesitation.
  • "Having words for the steps makes it feel less scary."
DDesign

User stories

  • As a new manager, I want a structure I can recall in the moment, so I stop avoiding hard conversations.
  • As a manager, I want to practice a realistic scenario before I'm in one, so the approach transfers to real work.
  • As an L&D lead, I want managers applying the framework the same week, so training closes the performance gap faster.

Solution

I replaced the lecture with an 10-minute, scenario-based microlearning resource along with a one-page job aid built in Gamma.app. Managers learn the DEAA sequence, immediately practice it in a branching conversation, and self-assess against the framework, collapsing the gap between training and on-the-job use to the same day.

Learning objectives

  • Identify the four stages of the DEAA coaching framework.
  • Distinguish coaching questions from directive statements.
  • Apply the DEAA sequence to a realistic team scenario.

Visual style

Colors
Headings
#020202
Body
#383838
Primary Accent
#E04F00
Secondary Accents
#F9F1B7
#C5FABE
#FDDAC7
Typography
Header
Aa
H1
32px
PT Serif Regular
Body
Aa
DM Sans Regular
Labels
Aa
P
14px
Novecento Sans Ultra Lite
Something
Aa
P
16px
Helvetica
DDevelop

Storyboards

AI use

I provided the copy. Gamma.app generated the initial design, which was modified by hand and finalized in Canva.

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