3 Tips for Creating Effective eLearning
eLearning can be a very successful training medium if executed well. The rollout of eLearning programs can save organizations on training costs, with the added benefit of faster delivery and the reach of a wider scope of employees. Creating eLearning that is both effective and engaging however, can sometimes be challenging.
Here are three tips I have found to be useful when working on eLearning projects.
Learning Objectives
Having a clear idea of what your learning objectives are helps to shape the content of your course. When writing objectives, be specific and focus on connecting these goals with what you want learners to take away at the end of the learning. By making objectives clear and concise, I find that I am better able to focus in on creating targeted evaluation pieces.
The Importance of Great Images
Images can truly help bring life to learning. That being said, not all images are created equal. When selecting images, try to include those which help to connect content to the real world. Learners tend to grasp information more easily when presented with a quality visual.
Also be mindful of including the right image size and provide the correct placement to match the content being presented. Choosing images that really connect to the subject matter can help make concepts more relatable to learners.
Create Engaging Learning
Because eLearning cannot necessarily cater to learners in the same manner as classroom training would, it is important to incorporate activities that are engaging and can keep learners interested in the subject matter. Since adults learn by doing and are most engaged when all senses are utilized, creating activities that appeal to multiple senses can be highly effective.
An example that uses a learner’s visual, auditory and kinaesthetic senses for instance can be a game. If done well, games can serve to positively affect the learner’s ability to understand and retain complex material. The advantage of activities such as these is that the content can seem less daunting and more fun, as learners are rewarded for their participation.
This list is by no means exhaustive but provides a few key guidelines to consider when conceptualizing and designing eLearning. To learn more about the work that we do at Pathways please visit our website at http://www.pathwaystrainingandelearning.ca/.
