How We Outlined a Complete Course Module in Under 45 Minutes Using AI

online course creator working at laptop

Creating a new course module can be a long process – from brainstorming concepts to developing a structured outline, it often requires hours of planning. But what if you could create a detailed outline for a complete module in under an hour?

That’s what I achieved when I partnered with a training consultant to use AI in enhancing her programme.

Client Challenge

The client, a consultant who offers training workshops, identified a gap in her course. She wanted to add a module on behavioural science and cognitive biases to bring extra value to her offering, but the structure and content were still unclear. She knew these concepts would resonate with her audience but needed a framework to bring them together in a practical, engaging way.

When we delivered a full, high-quality outline in under an hour, she was thrilled – but also concerned. She asked us not to use her name because she worried her audience might associate “speed” with “lack of quality.” But the truth is, with the right tools, you can achieve top-quality results in a fraction of the usual time. This project shows that speed and quality can absolutely go hand in hand. In fact, I think that’s the greatest power of AI.

Our Solution and Process

Using AI, we took this concept and transformed it into a fully outlined course module, ready to fit into her existing training. Here’s how we approached it:

1. Initial Exploration

  • Used ChatGPT to explore relevant ideas.
  • Pinpointed essential behavioural science principles that apply to training.
  • Identified cognitive biases that would add practical insights.
  • Validated these concepts through rapid AI-assisted exploration to ensure they offered genuine value.

2. Structured Development

  • Outline Creation: A custom GPT model helped us draft a six-module structure, guiding participants step-by-step through key concepts.
  • Exercises: Included exercises for each section to keep the module interactive.
  • Timing and Focus: Designed to be 60-90 minutes, the module would fit well into a busy professional’s schedule.
  • Business Applications: Connected each part to real-world scenarios, providing trainees with actionable takeaways.

3. Detailed Content Outline

  • Organised slide titles and flow to map out the content journey.
  • Added slide talking points and key ideas to ensure clarity in delivery.
  • Suggested visuals to make integration into presentation software smooth and engaging.

Results

In under 45 minutes, our client’s initial concept turned into a clear, structured outline, ready for her to record the course video. Here’s what we achieved:

  • Actionable Outline: A vague idea became a cohesive, practical training outline ready to record.
  • Seamless Integration: The new module aligned well with the client’s existing material and approach.
  • Added Value: Practical insights on behavioural science enhanced the learning experience for trainees.

Client’s Reaction

“I hadn’t fully conceived it until I was doing it… it’s just a whole different level of productivity… it’s kind of amazing.”

Key Learning

This case shows how AI can streamline course development by turning loose ideas into structured, actionable outlines in record time. We were able to transform what could have been weeks of planning into a single productive session.

AI doesn’t replace the subject matter expert – it accelerates their ability to create impactful, high-quality content.

Are you looking to save time on course development? Imagine the impact of having your ideas organised and ready to build in under an hour. Let’s talk about how AI can help streamline your next project.

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Written by Alastair McDermott

I help leadership teams adopt AI the right way: people first, numbers second. I move you beyond the hype, designing and deploying practical systems that automate busywork - the dull bits - so humans can focus on the high-value work only they can do.

The result is measurable capacity: cutting processing times by 92% and unlocking €55,000 per month in extra productivity.

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I turn AI tech & strategy into clear, actionable insights. You’ll discover how to leverage AI, how to integrate it strategically to get a competitive edge, automate tedious tasks, and improve business decision-making.

– Alastair.