Contributor FAQ
How do I record content?
Content should generally be recorded using PowerPoint’s native recording tools. We have found that this provides unmatched flexibility and simplicity. Contributors can record voice-over one slide at a time, in chunks, or entirely in one take. PowerPoint maintains the audio as an attachment to each slide, so the presentation can be easily edited at any time. This allows contributors to quickly make changes without re-recording large segments of audio and we can even change graphics or slide order after the narration is complete.
We will teach you everything you need to know about recording in PowerPoint with a 5-minute instructional video.
What types of content does DrugImpairment.com Need?
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- e-Learning Courses: Generally a minimum of 30 minutes, comprised of individual lessons, and grants certificates of completion for CEU credits. Shorter lessons can be combined with others (even from different instructors) on a similar topic to comprise a “course”. More details below.
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- Microlearning: Most of us have watched a 5 minute video on YouTube and learned something useful. We are providing a platform to share exactly that type of content, but narrowed to topics relevant to drug impairment, testing, and related practices. If you have a unique or effective way to teach a tough topic, this is a great way to share it – without worrying about starting a YouTube channel or establishing followers. The length is up to you and we can provide resources to help you make it great.
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- Case Studies: Reviewing interesting or unique cases can be a great method of instruction. This typically involves walking through the steps of a case chronologically, pointing out considerations at each stage, and ultimately revealing final conclusions. This methodology helps the learners develop improved reasoning skills and integrate unusual or unique experiences that they otherwise may not have been able to experience firsthand. Other case presentation methodologies are welcome as well.
What are the elements of an e-learning course?
An e-learning course must include:
- Video-based instruction. The instructor does not have to appear on screen, but may do so if they choose. Students often prefer voice-over paired with slides / visual aids.
- Instructor introduction at beginning of presentation.
- Disclosures: Should follow instructor introduction and be included even if the instructor is declaring no conflicts.
- Learning objectives: Generally, 2 – 4 per hour of content. Instructors may find it helpful to think of each learning objective as a lesson within their course.
- Lessons: Each lesson is a separate section within the course – meaning each includes a separate video and can include any additional materials the instructor wishes to attach. Don’t worry, we take care of extracting your content into separate videos.
An e-learning course may include:
- Instructor contact information. Instructors can choose to have students contact them with questions or we can direct them to contact our staff.
- Written materials (text-based instruction) can be provided to supplement video content.
- Attachments, such as a PDF of the slides, can be provided as a download.
- Links to websites or other external materials.
- Quizzes / tests can be included before the course, between lessons, or at the conclusion of the course. Instructors can specify question formats and if there should be a pass/fail criteria.
- A bibliography of references either as an attached file or as text on the final lesson page.
All types of content must avoid containing:
- Copyrighted materials or intellectual property of others without appropriate permissions or licensing. Note: We can provide you with licensed graphics and/or have graphics developed by a designer to your specifications.
- Photographs or videos of identifiable parts of others without a signed likeness waiver.
- Recommendations or referrals for specific products or services, unless specifically authorized by a sponsorship agreement with DrugImpairment.com and all affiliations openly disclosed.
What do I need to get started?
- A computer with a high-quality microphone or standalone headset / microphone. We can provide a loaner microphone if needed.
- A recent version of PowerPoint.
- View our 5-minute video on how to record in PowerPoint.
- If desired, we will provide you access to resources such as Canva Pro, Adobe Stock, etc. for licensed graphics.
How can I get compensated for contributing?
There are many different models of compensation for contributors, and what works best for an individual depends upon their unique situation. Different options are discussed below according to common scenarios, but actual agreements may include a combination of these or other arrangements as needed.
Contributing Within Scope of Primary Employment
Since DrugImpairment.com does not charge for specific courses, many instructors are allowed to produce content within the scope of their existing employment and do not require additional compensation. Their employers view the contributions as similar to presenting at a conference, where their employee is both developing themselves and strengthening the profession through sharing their knowledge. We appreciate these instructors and their employers immensely and are happy to provide the instructor with a complimentary membership to DrugImpairment.com. For routine or ongoing contributors in this scenario, we may also be able to provide support via scholarships to training or conferences or DrugImpairment.com memberships to more members of their organization.
Outside of Primary Employment (Compensation Prohibited by Employer)
Some contributors may be prohibited from developing content within the scope of their employment and also not allowed to have secondary (paid) employment. We appreciate the willingness of these contributors to devote their personal time to content creation, and are happy to offer a free membership to DrugImpairment.com and other incentives as may be allowed by employer terms.
Outside of Primary Employment (as a Paid Independent Contractor)
Contributors who wish to develop content as an independent contractor for DrugImpairment.com can be compensated through one or more of the following:
- Pay per hour of delivered content
- Membership to DrugImpairment.com
- Service referrals for those with consulting or expert witness practices
- Cobranding or marketing arrangements for those with a private business
Ambassador Program
DrugImpairment.com has a very limited number of Ambassador positions available for contributors who wish to produce content on a regular basis, actively recruit other contributors, and raise awareness of our platform through their professional networks and other activities. In exchange for their investment in improving and expanding DrugImpairment.com, Ambassadors can earn residual income based upon growth that results from their efforts.