Exciting news! The second edition of the Instructional Design for ELearning book is now available on Amazon! This edition has been fully revised and updated with the latest instructional design principles, case studies, checklists, templates, and assessments you can immediately apply to your course design. Here are just some of the updates you can look forward to: New chapter about Technical training New chapter about eLearning copyright New chapter about Agile ELearning design and development New information about personalized and augmented learning approaches New information about eLearning tools Assessments after each chapter New and updated tables and templates Case studies that illustrate eLearning concepts in each chapter Here is what some expert designers had to say about the new edition of this handbook: I have the first edition of Marina Arshavskiy’s Instructional Design for ELearning book, but her updated version is just … [Read more...] about New Edition of the Instructional Design for ELearning Book is Here!
instructional design book
Which ELearning Content Can Be Reused -Understanding Reusable Learning Objects
Thanks to many rapid eLearning tools available on the market, instructional designers are able to save time and resources by reusing learning objects such as eLearning modules, videos, and documents. However, the main problem with Reusable Learning Objects (RLOs) is that many training products are customized to address a very specific need, and become outdated relatively quickly. Developing a library of RLOs means designing content with sustainability in mind. Another term used for this type of content is “evergreen,” meaning that in a month, six months, or even a year, the content will still be relevant and applicable to learners. Evergreen content can eventually save a lot of time by not requiring extensive edits and updates. Consider the content you may use for training products currently on your shelf - what pieces of information are easy to recycle and require very little maintenance? Here are some examples: Stable: compliance laws, harassment awareness training, and … [Read more...] about Which ELearning Content Can Be Reused -Understanding Reusable Learning Objects
Technical Training – How to Make Technical ELearning Stick!
Teaching technical concepts is not an easy task, and delivering technical information through eLearning is an additional hurdle to overcome. Online learners often tune out, click through text-heavy slides barely skimming information, and still get that satisfying “check the box” completion status on their assigned training - all without actually retaining a thing. The core challenge of creating technical training is to translate very dry, mundane information into a memorable and engaging experience. The information must also clearly explain the inflection points where the learner should choose one option over another. How can you make sure your training hits both of these marks? Working with the right Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) will be central to your success. The learners will need context of where the technical information fits into their job, and this is where SMEs can help. Developing training that makes users relate to the technical information goes back to a cornerstone of … [Read more...] about Technical Training – How to Make Technical ELearning Stick!
5 Considerations for Designing Amazing ELearning Courses
As instructional designers create courses, they rarely have the luxury of working at their own pace, and incorporating the elements they feel are truly needed. The reality is that most of the time, instructional designers have to work around pressing deadlines, and under a tight budget. Yet, they are still expected to deliver quality courses. Regardless of the time, or monetary constraints, course designers should consider the following five elements: ISD methods and principles – As we all know, ADDIE is the most popular ISD model; however, many instructional designers prefer a more rapid approach, so they tend to use the RID model instead. Yet, there are other designers who use a combination of different models and approaches. When you select the model to use for designing a particular eLearning course, be sure to shape it around your learning objectives. Language – The language you use in your eLearning course is your key to success. The rule of a tomb is to avoid … [Read more...] about 5 Considerations for Designing Amazing ELearning Courses
ELearning Gamification Techniques That Work!
As eLearning specialists, we always look for ways to make our courses fun and engaging. Many eLearning specialists find that by gamifying their courses they can achieve the desired outcome and increase content retention. In this article, we will look at some of the popular gamification techniques. Narrative – This is the key to successful gamification. Not only that narratives tell stories, but they also offer real life examples that help learners understand main concepts that games are trying to teach. The art of storytelling is the main challenge that instructional designers face here. Not only that they need to think of a plot relevant to what is being taught, but they also have to incorporate protagonists and antagonists to ensure proper flow of the game. Rules – Just like any other type of activity, games must have rules. Without rules, learners will not know what to do and what to expect. Instructional designers should make sure that all the instructions are clear … [Read more...] about ELearning Gamification Techniques That Work!
5 Suggestions For Designing Motivational ELearning Courses
We all know that motivation plays a very important role in learning. While motivating learners in a regular classroom setting is relatively easy, doing so in an eLearning course, may be challenging. In this post, I want to look at some ways you can motivate your learners. Always use more than one way to present instructions/directions- Remember, your learners will not have an instructor who will be able to provide further explanations. Therefore, when you want learners to do something, you need to be as clear as possible. When it comes to instructions, more is better than less. Be as specific as you can, and don’t forget that all people learn differently. In addition to written instructions, consider offering instructions in the audio format. Try to provide clear examples of what you want your learners to do. Lastly, always use plain language when writing instructions. Your learners should not spend too much time thinking about the assignment. In fact, your instructions should be … [Read more...] about 5 Suggestions For Designing Motivational ELearning Courses