What Are The Most Effective eLearning Localization Strategies?
Learning becomes more meaningful when it is culturally relevant and engaging. English might be a global language, but when it comes to learning, many people are more comfortable with learning in their native tongue.
Translation and localization of eLearning content for globally dispersed learners brings consistency in training. Access the eBook on global translation strategies for in-depth insights into making your eLearning globe-ready. Translation in the simplest terms, is changing the language of the content. It is not just the mechanical conversion of words as translators pay special attention to grammar and syntax. But, to meet the training standards of a multicultural workforce, you need to go a step further. This next step is localization.
Localization of an eLearning course is essentially making a course local. Information is not just translated from one language to another, but rather is adapted to more effectively convey the same meaning in the target culture. The end goal of localization is to make content feel as if it was exclusively created for the specific target country. Localization ensures that training resonates with the local mindset and way of living.
Culture sensitivity plays a key role in localization and defines the success of a global training process. Below are some of the effective localization strategies that you can adapt to ensure a world-class eLearning program:
1. Incorporate Cultural And Associated Contextual Nuances
Apart from text, the eLearning course is filled with numerous other elements that need to be considered when adapting it for another language and culture. Elements such as colors, gestures, symbols, and humor invoke a particular idea or feeling in people, depending upon their country of origin. For e.g., some colors might be considered sacred in some cultures, like the color Green in the Middle East; a symbol might mean something entirely different in different regions. Since each of these elements has a connotation that is as unique as its locale, it is essential that this be adequately modified to suit the target country.
2. Use Appropriate Images
Graphics play a huge role in giving an eLearning course its unique cultural identity. Images must be culturally appropriate and acceptable to the target audience. To be able to do this, the images used in the original course must be interchangeable. Exercise caution when using symbolic images and gestures; for e.g., the two fingered peace sign or thumbs up might mean something entirely else in different countries. If you intend to use the same images for all translated versions, the images must be neutral by excluding religious symbols, dresses, or any other region-specific references.
3. Add Locale Flavors Appropriately
While the original content must be neutral, locale flavors and culture-specific subtleties must be incorporated while localizing the e-course. Something as simple as adding a region-specific scenario in the eLearning program or using local names and places can amplify interest of the local population. These allow foreign learners to connect with the learning program, resulting in better transfer of knowledge. When learners see things that they can relate to on the screen, their brains automatically associate the information with these things. These associations greatly help in recollecting and preserving the knowledge with learners.
4. Use International Formats
Use internationally accepted formats for units of time, currency, and measurements. For e.g., the metric system, or 12 or 24-hour value. By doing this during the localization process, you can assure that there is no ambiguity in your content. It avoids any confusion for the new learners and assures they gain knowledge that is 100% accurate. By using standardized formats, you also pave the way for their future convenience in grasping the subject matter. So, maintain consistency across all geographies to create a flawless understanding among your global users.
5. Hire The Professionals
This can very well be the cornerstone of your localization strategy. Making an eLearning course ready for another country is an extensive and time-consuming process. On top of that, you need to consider a ton of parameters to get it absolutely right. So, instead of venturing into this tremulous territory all by yourself, it is best to hire professionals. Professional native translators who are Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) possess the skills required to incorporate appropriate cultural variations and terminology into the translated version. At the same time, they also possess the necessary technical skills to make sure that the meaning of your course isn’t lost in translation.
Integrate world-class localization services to effectively overcome all communication barriers. Want to know more about making your training program global? Check the eBook for comprehensive understanding of translation and localization of eLearning courses.
