7 Tips To Develop Attention Grabbing eLearning Course Descriptions

7 Tips To Develop Attention Grabbing eLearning Course Descriptions
Summary: Creating effective eLearning course descriptions may seem simple and straightforward, but it may often be one of the most challenging aspects of the eLearning course design. This is due to the fact that the eLearning course descriptions must be powerful and informative, but concise, so that learners get a feel for how your eLearning courses can benefit them in their personal or professional lives. In this article, I'll go over how to develop attention grabbing eLearning course descriptions for your eLearning courses.

Attention Grabbing eLearning Course Descriptions

Creating powerful and memorable eLearning course descriptions gives you the opportunity to put your best foot forward when selling your eLearning courses. After all, learners won't know what your eLearning course can offer them if you don't take the time to stress its real world benefits and applications.Here are some tips you can use to develop successful eLearning course descriptions.

  1. Start off with a thought provoking or compelling statement.
    There's no rule that says eLearning course descriptions have to be dull. In fact, why not open this section with an attention grabbing statement or a question that encourages your potential learners to think about how the particular eLearning course might benefit them in the real world. For example, you can start with a statistic that's particularly surprising, or an emotionally-compelling statement that builds an immediate connection with them. If you create an eLearning course description that not only gives them a sense of what the training course can offer them, but also includes a dash of creativity or controversy, you can get them interested right from the start.
  2. Include keywords that are relevant and engaging.
    When learners are looking for an eLearning course that's going to offer them the skill sets or knowledge they need, they are probably going to be searching for specific keywords. This is particularly true for online searches, such as potential learners who are using Google to look for an eLearning course online, or course catalogs. For example, if your eLearning course is listed in a catalog with lots of other eLearning courses, it may be worthwhile to include strong and relevant keywords that are going to place your eLearning course near the top of the list. Do some keyword research to figure out which will best describe your eLearning course and your specific subject matter. Keep in mind that your eLearning course will be one among many and that most learners are busy enough, so integrating keywords into your description will make it easier for them to find your eLearning course in the crowd.
  3. Avoid complicated vocabulary or industry-specific jargon.
    It's usually unwise to use an abundance of complex words, technical jargon, or slang when creating your eLearning course description. For example, if you include words like “hands-on” or “interactive eLearning course" in the description, these may be too vague for potential learners. Not to mention that they can mean different things to different people. While one individual might consider your eLearning course to be highly “interactive”, another might not have the same opinion.  Also, try to steer clear of abbreviations or acronyms that aren't widely used.
  4. Use action words or phrases.
    Learners aren't drawn in by eLearning course descriptions that just tell them what they will learn, they need something more engaging, exciting, and interactive. What they are looking for is action words or phrases that get them motivated to learn. Use words like “explore” or “discover” in order to make them feel as though they are active participants in the eLearning experience. Instead of using more passive words, opt for ones that encourage them to take action and sign up for your eLearning course.
  5. Avoid redundancies.
    The main purpose of your eLearning course description is to give your audience a quick and organized overview of why they should sign up or purchase your eLearning course. While the eLearning course title should convince them to read the description, the description should make them want to learn more about the eLearning course itself by continuing on to the syllabus or course overview. As such, you'll want to try to avoid including redundant information when crafting your eLearning course. Don't highlight information that will be featured also in the eLearning course introduction or that can be found elsewhere on the site. Also, don't reword your title in the description itself. For example, if your title lets them know that your eLearning course covers the “basics of democracy”, then you won't need to mention it again in the description box.
  6. Keep it short and simple.
    One of the most helpful tips I can share with you is to keep it concise, short, and straightforward. Ideally, you'll want to keep it less than 130 words, as learners usually won't have the time to read through a lengthy description, even if it is interesting and exciting. Remember that they'll probably be browsing through a variety of eLearning course descriptions in search of the one that will give them the information they need. So, you will not want to make them sift through a lengthy eLearning course description to figure out if yours is the one for them.
  7. Address them directly.
    When learners are reading your eLearning course description, they ultimately want to feel as though you're speaking to them. Rather than writing your description in the third person (“students of this eLearning course”), address them directly by using “you” or the implied you all throughout. By doing this, you form a connection with them and they will be able to picture themselves taking the eLearning course, rather than having to place themselves in the shoes of a “student”.

Use these eLearning course description tips to give your learners a memorable and engaging overview of your eLearning course. Regardless of the topic or target audience, an informative and well written eLearning course description can make a world of difference when it comes to enrollment numbers and eLearning course sales figures.

eLearning course titles are equally as important as eLearning course descriptions. In the article 7 Tips To Create Attention Grabbing eLearning Course Titles you'll find a variety of tips that can help you develop an attention-grabbing title for your online course that is sure to make learners click that “enroll” button.

Last but not least, if you've been looking for tips on how to get your audience hooked from the very beginning of your eLearning course, then read the article 7 Tips To Create An Attention Grabbing eLearning Course Introduction where you will find invaluable tips to create eLearning course introductions that are engaging and inspiring for every learner.

Originally published on February 12, 2015