How To Boost Online Learner Retention
Keeping online learners glued to their screens can be tricky. But once you have them hooked, making the knowledge stick is even more challenging. Distractions, stress, and any number of things can hinder their ability to absorb and assimilate the information. Which is why you must create eLearning experiences that matter and leave a lasting impression. Here are 10 creative ways to boost online learner retention and help them remember the key takeaways of the eLearning course.
1. Create An Immersive Gaming Environment
Many people avoid eLearning courses because they've had boring eLearning experiences in the past. They've had to sit through long modules, tedious activities, and dull content. However, gamification and serious games have the ability to immerse and inspire your online learners. They give them the opportunity to earn rewards, progress through levels, and interact with interesting eLearning characters.
2. Animate Your Real World Examples And Case Studies
Laughter may be the best medicine. But it's also the best way to connect with your online learners. You have the power to capture your audience's attention and make the eLearning content more memorable through the power of animation. Transform your real-world examples, case studies, and stories into entertaining cartoons or animated videos. Just make sure that the animations don't distract from the primary goals and objectives of the eLearning course.
3. Incorporate "Reflection Equals Retention" Breaks
Online learners are more likely to engage and actively participate when they can relate to the eLearning content. More importantly, when they are able to connect the subject matter to personal issues and goals. This is why it's essential to provide reflection breaks that give online learners time to evaluate their own cognitions. They also have the power to see how the information translates in the real world and why it's worth remembering. Relevance adds more value to the eLearning experience and improves memory retention.
4. Include Visual Illustrations To Simplify Tasks
People don't like dealing with frustration or confusion. It's a fact of life. And the same principles apply in eLearning experiences. As such, you must simplify complex topics and tasks by any means necessary. One of the most effective methods is visual illustrations, like diagrams, charts, and infographics. Visual representations make eLearning content more digestible by showing the connection between ideas and concepts. They also break complicated processes into manageable steps so that online learners can follow along.
5. Add Bursts Of Color
Color has a direct impact on our emotions, which means that you must choose your hues carefully. For example, adding blue to your color scheme can create a sense of calm. This is ideal for stressful situations, such as before an eLearning assessment or timed simulation. The color red immediately grabs their attention, which makes it great for tips and urgent instructions. Color also adds to the ambiance of your eLearning course, thereby creating an emotional tie to your online learners.
6. Use Images That Catch Learners Off-Guard
Our brain automatically takes notice of compelling images, especially those that seem out of place. Therefore, thought-provoking images are a great addition to your eLearning course design. Eye-catching images also get online learners talking and fuels online interactions. However, every image, graphic, and eLearning video you use should still align with the subject matter. For example, an irrelevant image may catch online learners off guard, but it also diminishes the value of the eLearning course.
7. Start A Social Media Learning Circle
Social media groups, forums, and eLearning blogs serve as amazing online collaboration tools. They prevent feelings of isolation and allow online learners to team up with their peers. Create a list of social media links so that online learners can quickly find the right online resources. Also, survey them beforehand to determine which social media platforms they're already using. Then you can start thriving social media circles on sites online learners are familiar with.
8. Add A Microlearning Online Library
Microlearning online resources give online learners bite-sized information that they can access on-the-go. This makes learning even more convenient and easily digestible. Instead of having to set aside time to train, online learners can build their knowledge during their spare time. As a result, they can take charge of the eLearning experience and choose activities that align with their needs. On a side note, a microlearning online library also offers just-in-time support.
9. Help Them Fly Solo With Self-Paced eLearning Courses
Self-paced eLearning courses put online learners in the driver's seat. They don't have to keep up with peers or stick to a strict eLearning schedule. Asynchronous eLearning courses are available in a variety of formats. In most cases, they involve some form of social collaboration. For example, forums and online group collaboration projects that offer peer-based support. This gives them the ability to share their skills and experiences before they venture off on their own.
10. Incorporate A Clickable eLearning Course Map
People appreciate when eLearning professionals solicit their feedback. Conduct surveys, questionnaires, and online pre-assessments so that online learners have a direct say in the design process. Focus on their goals, needs, and preferences in order to create effective eLearning content. You should also incorporate personal learning paths so that everyone can concentrate on their skill and knowledge gaps. Another option is to incorporate clickable eLearning course maps that online learners can roam freely. This is in lieu of traditional, linear maps that guide the learner. Clickable maps give them complete control, which empowers and motivates them to start what they've finished. Therefore, online learners are likely to stay put and reap the rewards of your eLearning course.
Certain members of your audience may not stick around until the end. Personal commitments and challenges might prevent them from getting the full benefit of your eLearning course. Use these 10 tips to increase your retention rates and make your eLearning experiences stick.
Do you need more microlearning tips and tricks for your next eLearning course? Read the article 7 Tips To Create Memorable Microlearning Online Training and discover how to offer your corporate learners the information they need in a fraction of the time.
