6 formats and 2 design considerations for highly effective eLearning
There is no one size fits all in eLearning. The learning goal, objectives, target audience, technology tolerance, and available budget are just a few of the factors that guide the choices made during every eLearning project. With that being said, knowledge is power, and knowing what’s possible in the realm of digital learning leads to better informed decisions about what works best (and worst) in different situations.
We break down 6 formats and 2 design considerations available to create an effective and engaging eLearning experience. But remember, combining them might give you an even better outcome.
Formats
Asynchronous module
This format is the one that comes to mind when most of us think of corporate eLearning. Within an asynchronous eLearning module, learners are presented with information that is often interspersed with knowledge checks, scenarios, activities, quizzes, or even learning games; all with the goal of increasing learner retention. Commonly thought of in its desktop computer iteration, this versatile medium can be personalized to match both the content and the unique characteristics of the target learners. Today’s industry-leading eLearning software allows for mobile-ready publishing for learners on-the-go.
It is called asynchronous to differentiate itself from the traditional training delivery model where content is simultaneously transmitted by the instructor and received by the learner. Asynchronous eLearning makes it possible for learners to engage with the course when it is most convenient for them; 24 hours per day, 7 days a week, from anywhere with internet access. It also allows for adjustments in pace, including unlimited options for viewing and reviewing content as many times as needed. These characteristics are also shared by the most other formats in this list.
Live video conference classes
The only synchronous, real-time method in this list, live classes taught through video conference applications like Zoom and Google Meet try to replicate the classroom experience. Instructors and learners all join in real time and have the chance to interact and ask questions. Additionally, sessions held online can be recorded and made available for future consultation.
Video
Video is a powerful eLearning format. Not only is it a familiar format to most learners, but it also goes a long way to capture learners’ attention through engaging narrative and complementary graphics. Videos can be consumed anywhere, anytime, as standalone entities or as part of a larger course. They are also adaptable to the pace of each learner, as speed can be increased or reduced, with pausing and rewinding available at any moment. There are many ways to use video for eLearning, so let’s take a look at a few possibilities:
Talking head video – mimics the classroom style with a person presenting content as they talk to the camera. It is a good idea for conveying short messages or to create interaction in instructor-led courses.
Explainer video – presents concepts to the audience through the use of narrations over illustrative imagery. Often executed with animation, this is a great way to introduce a topic.
How-to video – shows practical applications and can be used to model skills and behaviours during training. It uses real-life settings and scenarios that directly apply to the learning goals and objectives
Interview video – provides a great format to bring in subject matter experts and ask them the questions learners might have.
Virtual Reality
Virtual Reality is the use of technology to create a three-dimensional interactive experience. Its goal in education is to provide an immersive experiential learning environment, without being limited by location. VR is still in its infancy as affordable learning technology, but the possibilities are promising.
In VR, learners may see and interact with a 3D scenario. Instructions can be included to guide the learner to complete tasks and explore the simulated reality. The result is hands-on training that can be taken anywhere, without a reliance on other materials.
Discussion forums
Discussion forums are a useful tool to foster interaction among students. Usually, a part of longer and more involved courses, these digital discussion spaces allow instructors to pose questions and invite learners to join the conversation through open-ended questions and prompting.
Podcast
Podcasts are popular as a source of news and entertainment. As an often overlooked format of eLearning, podcasts deliver content anywhere, without requiring a computer or even looking at a screen.
This audio format can be used to enrich the learning experience in many ways, for example by answering common questions, presenting case studies, or bringing in subject matter expert interviews/expertise.
Design Considerations
Many of the above formats have unique strengths and weaknesses and perform better than others in certain scenarios. To elevate any eLearning format, consideration should always be given to the design of the learning. How will the chosen format be presented in order to provide the highest learning retention possible? Meeting learners where they are and recognizing how they ingest knowledge will elevate any eLearning format. mLearning and Microlearning are two design considerations that should never be overlooked.
mLearning
Mobile Learning or mLearning gets its name based on the type of device used to access eLearning courses. To match the soaring demand for mobile-friendly training, eLearning has adapted to deliver content that fits in smartphone screens while remaining easy to navigate. Besides the changes in format, mLearning also allowed for new ways for learners to access and engage with courses. With eLearning at their fingertips, learners can take advantage of idle time anywhere, and view and review specific topics on demand.
Microlearning
Microlearning is a way to present content in smaller portions, allowing easy access to specific topics at the moment they are needed. This makes learning convenient and integrates well in a busy worker’s schedule. Microlearning works because it focuses on answering one question at a time, eliminating the need to learn a large amount of information at once. To be successful in microlearning it is important to make each piece relevant and focussed.
A current trend in eLearning, microlearning caters to the habit of having information readily accessible through smartphone screens. The small pieces of microlearning are designed to be the go-to place whenever learners have focussed and specific questions. These pieces can take the form of short modules, videos, infographics or any material designed for quick reference.
Elearning can be designed and developed in so many ways. Each format has its advantages and adapts best to different types of content and activities. By playing on the strengths that are most relevant to your learners, increased ROI and learner retention are just around the corner.
Don’t forget that choosing the best eLearning formats for your needs is part of building a successful eLearning strategy. Learn more about all the pillars that will sustain your winning strategy in The Six Strategic Pillars of eLearning.
The Best Formats in Your eLearning Toolbox
6 formats and 2 design considerations for highly effective eLearning
There is no one size fits all in eLearning. The learning goal, objectives, target audience, technology tolerance, and available budget are just a few of the factors that guide the choices made during every eLearning project. With that being said, knowledge is power, and knowing what’s possible in the realm of digital learning leads to better informed decisions about what works best (and worst) in different situations.
We break down 6 formats and 2 design considerations available to create an effective and engaging eLearning experience. But remember, combining them might give you an even better outcome.
Formats
Asynchronous module
This format is the one that comes to mind when most of us think of corporate eLearning. Within an asynchronous eLearning module, learners are presented with information that is often interspersed with knowledge checks, scenarios, activities, quizzes, or even learning games; all with the goal of increasing learner retention. Commonly thought of in its desktop computer iteration, this versatile medium can be personalized to match both the content and the unique characteristics of the target learners. Today’s industry-leading eLearning software allows for mobile-ready publishing for learners on-the-go.
It is called asynchronous to differentiate itself from the traditional training delivery model where content is simultaneously transmitted by the instructor and received by the learner. Asynchronous eLearning makes it possible for learners to engage with the course when it is most convenient for them; 24 hours per day, 7 days a week, from anywhere with internet access. It also allows for adjustments in pace, including unlimited options for viewing and reviewing content as many times as needed. These characteristics are also shared by the most other formats in this list.
Live video conference classes
The only synchronous, real-time method in this list, live classes taught through video conference applications like Zoom and Google Meet try to replicate the classroom experience. Instructors and learners all join in real time and have the chance to interact and ask questions. Additionally, sessions held online can be recorded and made available for future consultation.
Video
Video is a powerful eLearning format. Not only is it a familiar format to most learners, but it also goes a long way to capture learners’ attention through engaging narrative and complementary graphics. Videos can be consumed anywhere, anytime, as standalone entities or as part of a larger course. They are also adaptable to the pace of each learner, as speed can be increased or reduced, with pausing and rewinding available at any moment. There are many ways to use video for eLearning, so let’s take a look at a few possibilities:
Virtual Reality
Virtual Reality is the use of technology to create a three-dimensional interactive experience. Its goal in education is to provide an immersive experiential learning environment, without being limited by location. VR is still in its infancy as affordable learning technology, but the possibilities are promising.
In VR, learners may see and interact with a 3D scenario. Instructions can be included to guide the learner to complete tasks and explore the simulated reality. The result is hands-on training that can be taken anywhere, without a reliance on other materials.
Discussion forums
Discussion forums are a useful tool to foster interaction among students. Usually, a part of longer and more involved courses, these digital discussion spaces allow instructors to pose questions and invite learners to join the conversation through open-ended questions and prompting.
Podcast
Podcasts are popular as a source of news and entertainment. As an often overlooked format of eLearning, podcasts deliver content anywhere, without requiring a computer or even looking at a screen.
This audio format can be used to enrich the learning experience in many ways, for example by answering common questions, presenting case studies, or bringing in subject matter expert interviews/expertise.
Design Considerations
Many of the above formats have unique strengths and weaknesses and perform better than others in certain scenarios. To elevate any eLearning format, consideration should always be given to the design of the learning. How will the chosen format be presented in order to provide the highest learning retention possible? Meeting learners where they are and recognizing how they ingest knowledge will elevate any eLearning format. mLearning and Microlearning are two design considerations that should never be overlooked.
mLearning
Mobile Learning or mLearning gets its name based on the type of device used to access eLearning courses. To match the soaring demand for mobile-friendly training, eLearning has adapted to deliver content that fits in smartphone screens while remaining easy to navigate. Besides the changes in format, mLearning also allowed for new ways for learners to access and engage with courses. With eLearning at their fingertips, learners can take advantage of idle time anywhere, and view and review specific topics on demand.
Microlearning
Microlearning is a way to present content in smaller portions, allowing easy access to specific topics at the moment they are needed. This makes learning convenient and integrates well in a busy worker’s schedule. Microlearning works because it focuses on answering one question at a time, eliminating the need to learn a large amount of information at once. To be successful in microlearning it is important to make each piece relevant and focussed.
A current trend in eLearning, microlearning caters to the habit of having information readily accessible through smartphone screens. The small pieces of microlearning are designed to be the go-to place whenever learners have focussed and specific questions. These pieces can take the form of short modules, videos, infographics or any material designed for quick reference.
Elearning can be designed and developed in so many ways. Each format has its advantages and adapts best to different types of content and activities. By playing on the strengths that are most relevant to your learners, increased ROI and learner retention are just around the corner.
Don’t forget that choosing the best eLearning formats for your needs is part of building a successful eLearning strategy. Learn more about all the pillars that will sustain your winning strategy in The Six Strategic Pillars of eLearning.
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