5 Common Pitfalls of E-Learning Design

Organizing and planning the learning needs of your organization is not an easy task. You have to find a balance between compliance requirements, budgetary constraints, and other administrative considerations. Without appropriate guidance and support, your training content can easily fall prey to the following common pitfalls, resulting in inefficient or ineffective training programs.

1) Presenting training in a glorified PowerPoint format

If you base an e-learning module on a PowerPoint presentation, the result might be a click-through course with text-filled screens and the dreaded "Next" button. This outdated format puts the focus on what you want to teach instead of what users need to learn. Instead, take some time to review and map out your learning goals from a performance perspective, which will help identify nice-to-know content and need-to-know content.

2) Expecting learners to memorize

Rote memorization has nothing to do with learning. Learning takes place when the learner integrates new information into existing knowledge, making connections and applying that knowledge in new situations. Click here to review a related blog for ideas on how to create engaging, effective training.

3) Requiring learners to complete training outside the work context

If your course is only accessible via a computer, that can create a hurdle for learners who typically perform their job functions on-the-go using mobile devices. If your learners are less likely to work at a desk, consider alternative learning approaches that can be digested quickly during brief downtimes and are easy to use on any device, such as a check list or a short video tutorial.

4) Assuming that conventional course training is always the answer

Reference-based learning, which focuses on how to use a reference guide, might be a more efficient solution than the traditional online course. Other creative approaches include video case studies and gamified learning. 

5) Borrowing too much inspiration from your marketing materials

While flashy course elements like marketing language and splashy animations may seem like a great way to engage your learners, these features can easily turn 5 minutes of content into a 20-minute module. E-learning is most effective when it employs minimal on-screen text, a structured layout, and a conscious use of graphics.

Conclusion

If you recognize some of these features in your existing or in-progress e-learning programs, it's time to get the help of e-learning professionals! At TransPerfect, we have a dedicated e-learning team that will assist you with state-of-the-art tools and methodologies that will turn your e-learning program into an efficient learning solution.