How To Improve eLearning Course Accessibility: 8 Quick And Cost-Effective Ways
eLearning revolutionized the world of education. It gave everyone the opportunity to build their knowledge base, regardless of their background or physical location. However, eLearning course accessibility is still a major concern for some online learners. Particularly online learners with special needs or those who are using their mobile devices to explore the subject matter. Here are 8 quick and cost-effective techniques to improve eLearning course accessibility.
1. De-Clutter Your eLearning Course Design
Cluttered eLearning courses make eLearning content more difficult to digest. Online learners aren’t able to access the information because they can’t find the necessary online training resources. The key facts and stats get lost in the crowd, thereby diminishing the value of the eLearning experience. Thus, you must remove extraneous text and images to avoid cognitive overload and improve eLearning course accessibility. Use eLearning templates to return order to the chaos and create a cohesive eLearning course layout. You should also do a thorough audit of your eLearning course with your current learning objectives and goals in mind. Items that don’t support the desired outcomes must go by the wayside.
2. Include Subtitles Or Captions
Online learners with hearing impairments aren’t able to benefit from your background tracks, audio narrations, and podcasts. Instead, they require captions or subtitles to fully understand the subject matter. Those who speak English as a second language can also take advantage of subtitles to absorb the eLearning content, especially if you take the time to translate your eLearning course into the most commonly used languages.
3. Add Relevant Images And Graphics
Online learners assimilate information in different ways. However, visuals are the most direct way to convey information and enhance memory retention. Especially if the ideas and concepts are difficult to digest. For example, a chart or graph can highlight important statistics that online learners must remember. Or an image illustrates proper safety procedures employees need to follow on the job. Mobile learners also have the opportunity to access these visuals on the go, instead of having to read text blocks. Thus, they get targeted information that helps them overcome challenges or complete tasks.
4. Streamline eLearning Navigation
Navigability has a direct impact on eLearning course accessibility. Online learners must be able to navigate through the eLearning course with ease instead of trying to find hidden buttons or links to reach the next eLearning module. Ensure that your navigation icons are clearly visible and include explicit online instructions for online learners to follow. For example, describe what they need to know to advance to the next level or successfully complete the scenario. In addition, use familiar buttons that online learners instantly recognize, such as arrows or "Home" icons, so that they know what to expect.
5. Include Audio Narrations
Audio narrations are ideal for auditory learners, as well as those who are visually impaired. They don’t have to worry about reading text on the screen or downloading additional software, as all the important ideas and concepts are in audio format. The key is to choose the right narrator for the task. They must have an audible speaking voice that is easy for everyone to understand. Furthermore, the script should be free of complicated terminology that online learners are unfamiliar with. You might also consider optional audio controls that allow online learners to turn off the audio narration if they’d prefer to read text. For example, if they are in the middle of a meeting or crowded office.
6. Create A Centralized eLearning Course Map
A centralized eLearning course map serves as a hub for online learners. They can quickly access the online training resources and eLearning activities they need without having to search the entire eLearning course. This also allows them to create a personalized online training path based on their needs and knowledge gaps. For example, an online learner has the power to choose the eLearning activities and assessments they need to build a specific skill or master a task that will help them land that big promotion. Clickable eLearning course maps are great for asynchronous learning courses, as online learners can go at their own pace and focus on individual learning goals.
7. Provide A Diverse Microlearning Online Training Library
Microlearning online training libraries offer bite-sized knowledge that’s easily accessible and targeted for online learners’ needs. They also serve as a valuable "moment of need" resource to help boost productivity and proficiency. Online learners are able to search the microlearning database for eLearning activities, self-assessments, and modules based on their gaps. For example, a podcast that will help them complete a sales transaction or a video demo that showcases the important features and specs of a new product line. You don’t necessarily have to develop a microlearning online training repository from scratch. In fact, you can simply repurpose the online training materials you already have. For instance, the webinar you hosted last month becomes a series of microlearning online presentations. Each installment features a tip or technique that online learners can use in the real world.
8. Include Optional Hyperlinks
Some online learners may require more information, while others simply want to absorb the essentials in order to solve an immediate problem. Hyperlinks give online learners the power to decide how far they want to take the learning process based on a variety of factors, such as their schedules or individual needs. For example, mobile learners with visual impairments may choose to access the hyperlinks when they’re at home. That way they can turn on the audio narrations and assimilate the information without any distractions.
Every member of your audience should have the same opportunity to expand their skills and knowledge. These tips can help you make your eLearning course easily accessible and digestible, regardless of online learners’ goals, gaps, or personal needs. Better still, you don’t have to go over budget to make these quick and convenient modifications.
Do you need to bring your eLearning course up to Section 508 compliance? Looking for additional tips to make your eLearning course accessible for everyone? Read the article 8 Tips To Create eLearning Courses For Online Learners With Special Needs to explore 8 tips and techniques to create effective eLearning courses for online learners with special needs.
