You don't consider yourself as an expert on eLearning design. But you do treat design as a crucial aspect of eLearning and understand its importance. The proverbial question, however, still haunts you: how does one design an effective eLearning course?

We know that creating learning content that's clear and concise is a no-brainer. But creating content that influences, motivates, engages and compells is not often a simple task to accomplish. The good news is you don’t have to be an expert to craft effective eLearning content. You only have to understand the basics well and execute it.

It’s ok if you’re not a professional designer Not everyone is lucky enough to have a designer on tap for every eLearning project. And truth is, most of us aren’t graphic designers nor have extensive formal training in visual design.

Laundry detergent ads often feature buzz words like ultra, plus and 2X without any indication of what these words actually mean or how they make the detergent any better. In eLearning, we have our own buzz words-- interactive. We talk about this word often but how many courses actually offer true interactive experiences.

Though cardio it's good for your heart and helps your weight, it isn't the only necessary activity your body needs when exercising. Some strength training is also key to tone your muscles. And of course, stretching at the beginning is a must. The same happens in eLearning, you need more than only just text in your courses. While it is important to provide learners with facts and numbers, learners also require adequate experience in practical application and connection to facts to retain information.

The psychologist Abraham Maslow was best known for his theory of the hierarchy of needs. Entrepreneurs, managers, marketers and psychologists have all benefited from Maslow’s theory. But eLearning professionals too can benefit from his pyramid-style guide to human behavior.

Here are some eLearning motivation terms every eLearning course developer should know. By familiarizing yourself with these concepts, you can feel more confident that your eLearning courses will be successful and motivational.

What reaction do you get when you announce a new eLearning course to employees? Do they stand up and cheer, excited for the learning opportunities and inspiration they will gain from the eLearning course you're offering? Or do they sigh, shoulders slumped as they slink away for yet another wasted day looking through slide after slide after slide?