How to Design e-Learning Modules

chillibreeze writer — Sushmita Bhowmick

E-learning modules, at least the ones that exist today, are at the most workable solutions, which fulfill the instructional requirements of effective online learning. However, if e-learning has to survive and grow, it needs to undergo a drastic change in its graphic user interface (GUI). Unless this is done, it will be very difficult to hold the attention of a generation that has grown up on a staple of Play Station and X-box.

The five main aspects or elements, not necessarily in this order, that an effective e-learning module should have are:

1. Sound instructional design
2. Easy navigation
3. User friendly GUI
4. Interesting elements - games, simulations
5. Matching the objectives to the assessment

Let us see what each of these elements entail.

Sound instructional design (ID)

The simplest way to have a sound ID strategy is to follow a standard ADDIE model. Here, “A” stands for Analyze, “D” stands for Design, the second “D” stands for Develop, “I” stands for Implement, and “E” stands for Evaluate.
You need to:

1. Analyze learner characteristics, tasks to be learned, etc
2. Design and develop learning objectives
3. Develop instructional or training materials
4. Implement the instructional materials
5. Evaluate the desired effectiveness of the material

Easy navigation

The navigation between screens should be easy. A ‘Help” screen should detail the elements of navigation where the function and utility of each button/icon is specified.

User friendly GUI

The graphic user interface must include utilities, audio controls, search options, etc. However, the breathing space in the design is very crucial. An e-learning program is user controlled and hence any lapse in the design directly affects the interest and involvement of the user. Learning designed for children should have colorful and engaging visuals preferably related to themes and motifs with which children can associate.

For adult learners, the color schemes should be suitable to the learner profile. For example U.S. based clients usually love shades of blue, grey or brown. European clients are more open to the use of brighter colors like yellow, orange and green.

Interesting elements - games, simulations

Simple games should be used to reinforce learning, both for children and adults. Crosswords, jigsaw puzzles, hangman, monopoly, etc can be adapted to the requirements of the training. Intricate condition based multi-threaded scenarios and simulated situations can serve a definite purpose in adult learning.

Matching the objectives to the assessment

The most important thing that one should keep in mind while designing an e-learning course is to match the objectives and assessments. Each objective specified at the beginning should be addressed in the assessment. If the objective is not one that is measurable or that can be assessed, then the learning can be reinforced through illustrative examples.

The key element in any e-learning module is how well it can be designed to teach and be interesting at the same time. We have to remember that the controls are with the learner.

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—About our writer: Sushmita says, "Well, a red-roofed house, sea-swept palms, my favourite books for company, and I will not disturb you. I love to laugh through life, and travel light, both literally and figuratively. I realise that we are draining the earth and try to give back what I can in my little way and encourage others to do so.

 

 

 

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