How To Create Multiplatform-Friendly Online Training Courses
We live in a tech-friendly era where people expect information anytime, anywhere. We have constant access to video demos, podcasts, and other resources that broaden our horizons. And the same rule should apply to online training materials. But what does it take to create a comprehensive and easily accessible online training course? Here are the 9 essentials for developing multiplatform-friendly online training courses.
1. Microlearning Online Training Resources
Mobile learning and microlearning are a perfect pair. Mobile device users typically don't have the time to sit through a lengthy online training course. They are on-the-go, and need immediate access to online training resources. As such, you must offer them bite-sized activities and modules for quick consumption. Microlearning online training content should be easily accessible and require just a few minutes of corporate learners' time. For example, a 2-minute podcast that sheds light on a common problem, or a 5-minute task simulation to help them brush up on the steps involved. In fact, you may want to create a microlearning online library for your mobile learners.
2. Streamlined eLearning Navigation
Are your hyperlinks active? Can mobile learners find your navigation icons with ease? Are there clear instructions on how to proceed through the online training course? Multiplatform-friendly online training courses must have seamless eLearning navigation. Otherwise, you run the risk of mobile learner frustration. Not to mention, you compromise the value of your online training course. Use familiar icons and make links clearly visible so that corporate learners can quickly find what they're looking for. You should also incorporate a drop-down menu icon for the convenience of your mobile learners.
3. Legible Fonts
Keep in mind that mobile screens are much smaller than laptops and PCs. As such, smaller font may appear tiny. This is why you must use clearly legible fonts that are larger in size. For example, an elegant font may look great on the big screen. But mobile device users aren't able to read it. Thus, they don't receive the information they require and cannot complete the task. Whenever you're in doubt, use more basic fonts and jazz it up with creative subheads. For instance, titles that feature elegant font types and bold colors to guide corporate learners' focus.
4. Compelling Visual Aids
Visual aids are beneficial for a variety of reasons. First and foremost, they simplify complex subjects. They also grab corporate learners' attention, which is crucial for mobile learners. They are already dealing with external distractions, and your online training content needs to catch their eye. In addition, visuals improve knowledge retention and recall. This allows corporate learners to use the information in the real world to achieve the desired outcome. For best results, incorporate visual aids that are available offline. Many HTML5 tools allow corporate learners to download online training content for quick access. They can sync up with the system at a later time to update their progress.
5. Clear Directions
You should never automatically assume that mobile learners know how to use the mobile learning platform. They may be unfamiliar with the layout of your online training course, or aren't sure how to access the online training materials on their smartphone. For this reason, you need to include clear directions for every aspect of your online training course design. As an example, what they must do to download online training resources or participate in task simulations. Start each online training activity or module with a brief summary so mobile learners know what to expect. Then include reminders throughout the online training course to refresh their memory and remove obstacles. For instance, reiterate the main learning objectives of the online training course and include support links.
6. Big Buttons
Buttons tend to get lost in the shuffle. Especially when they are small buttons hidden among text on a mobile screen. Therefore, your buttons need to be larger and more prominent. Make sure they stand out from the other elements on the page, and clearly label them. Tell corporate learners exactly where they lead and how they can access the materials. For example, the button will direct them to your microlearning online repository. That said, buttons should not occupy the entire smartphone screen.
7. White Space
You're working with limited space. As such, you need to include the essentials without creating a chaotic learning atmosphere. Leave enough white space in your layout so that your learners can differentiate between the elements. This also helps them distinguish one subject from another. You see, the brain automatically groups objects when they are close to each other. It's the law of proximity. White space ensures that corporate learners evaluate and assimilate information separately, instead of remembering it as a "cluster" in their mental schema.
8. Responsive Design Authoring Tools
Responsive design authoring tools feature breakpoints, which are different versions of your mobile-friendly online training course. Each layout automatically adjusts based on the screen size and orientation. For instance, the smartphone version may have fewer images and larger text than the PC version. The key is choosing a responsive design authoring tool that ticks all the boxes. It must be user-friendly, within your eLearning budget, and aligned with your needs. Try out different tools and get input from your eLearning team before you make your final decision.
9. Mobile Support Resources
Certain corporate learners may run into problems that require immediate assistance. For example, they are unable to login to the mobile platform or access "just-in-time" online training material. As a result, you should incorporate mobile support resources, such as FAQs and email contacts. You can even integrate a social media or online forum app. This gives mobile learners the chance to reach out to peers and instructors who can help.
Your employees are dealing with stress and short attention spans. Fortunately, you can use these 9 multiplatform-friendly tips to make your online training convenient and easily digestible. As a result, you'll improve your online training ROI and retain your top talent.
Are you ready to create mobile learning resources for your corporate learners? Read the article 6 Responsive Design FAQs For eLearning Professionals to discover the answers to your most pressing mobile learning questions.