Isn't it curious how the human brain works? We've all been there—grasping for a name or face we just learned last week while vividly recalling a movie character from our childhood. Think about it: those history dates from school vanish like smoke, but the details of a high school chemistry experiment? Crystal clear. It's a quirky thing, memory. Some stories fade into the mist of our minds, while others stay with us, as sharp as the day we first read them. Now, if you're an instructional designer, you're probably nodding along, because you're on a mission to crack this code. Why do we hold onto some pieces of information as if they're treasures, yet let others slip away? That's the million-dollar question. You see, you don't just want to fill heads with facts. You're aiming for the kind of learning that sticks, that lasts way beyond the final quiz—knowledge that's there when it's needed in the real world. That's the dream, right?

Navigating the realm of workplace learning presents its own set of challenges and opportunities. In particular, t, two terms have become quite prominent: eLearning and mLearning. But what truly distinguishes them, and do they significantly impact the way we learn and grow on the job? These terms encapsulate nuanced differences that are well worth exploring. Traditionally, the prevailing belief was that any training program should be accessible primarily through desktop computers. However, the landscape has evolved, hasn't it? Now, in the year 2023, the folks you're looking to gear up—those enthusiastic team players hungry to level up their skills—are packing a variety of gear, from laptops and tablets to trusty smartphones. And guess what? Each of these gadgets is like a ticket to non-stop learning. The numbers back it up too: a solid 60% of users are all about that mobile device convenience when it comes to diving into workplace learning materials and info. Yet, here's where the challenge and the opportunity lie: we've arrived at a juncture where merely converting existing training content to fit mobile formats isn't sufficient. Designing an effective eLearning experience for mobile devices isn't simply about adapting content to a smaller screen. It entails a holistic approach that leverages the unique strengths of mobile devices, creating a learning experience that seamlessly integrates with the dynamic pace of modern work life. In this article, we will delve into the fundamental distinctions between eLearning and mLearning in a workplace context, shedding light on how each approach can shape and elevate the learning journey of employees. Also read: Embracing a Mobile Mindset for Learning and Development

Did you know that a whopping 80% of what we process online is visual? Yes, our brains are hardwired to respond to visuals, especially when we're learning. This means that visuals, especially colors, are more than just design choices - they're game-changers in eLearning! Color isn't just a design choice; it's a dynamic tool that taps into the learner's psychology. Whether it's evoking a certain emotion, drawing attention to key content, or providing a calming backdrop for intensive learning, the strategic use of color can significantly amplify the effectiveness of eLearning materials. But, like any powerful tool, it's crucial to use it judiciously. Overwhelming your learners with a rainbow riot might just lead them down the path of cognitive overload, negating any positive effects.

Let's talk about interactivity. What is it, really? We all have an idea of what it means, but putting it into words is no easy feat, right? From an academic standpoint, interactivity is defined as "a mutual action between a learner, learning system, and material". Makes sense, doesn't it? It's been proven time and time again that interactivity has a strong, positive impact on learning (Bosco 1986; Fletcher 1989; 1990; Stanford; 1990). In fact, one study by Bosco (1986) reviewed 75 studies and found that interactive media not only helped people learn faster but also improved their attitude toward learning. So, you might then think, that more interactivity must be better, right? Well, not necessarily. There's a fine line between a richly interactive eLearning course and one that overwhelms learners with endless hurdles and challenges. Just like chocolate, wine, and Netflix series, interactivity is best enjoyed in moderation.

Looking at all the things that are involved in creating an eLearning course could make you feel like your first step should be to “Give Up.” However, with these 12 steps, we break down the process into manageable chunks, which is a big part of what makes for a killer eLearning course design. Sounds good, right? Read through these steps, and soon you’ll have a good handle on what is needed and where to start to create your first eLearning courses.

When you go into a funhouse or corn maze, there are literally dozens of paths that you can try to take. What strategy do you take when trying to complete the course? Do you run as fast as possible, not caring how many wrong turns or dead ends you take? Do you develop a strategy and create markers for yourself, so you don’t backtrack? Do you set markers and have an idea of how far you have gone? These are all different choices that you make. Similar choices can be made when it comes to authoring an eLearning course. It can be overwhelming to actually sit down and create the course. However, there are tried and true steps to take before firing up that authoring tool and start designing an eLearning course.

At the beginning of their journey, eLearning and online training professionals need to find the “secret sauce” for what works best with learners. The following five helpful mantras provide refreshing ideas for creating eLearning courses that go beyond the conventional approach.

Workplace learning used to be different. In the last decades, learning was considered just an event. People studied four-year careers only, pursued a job for life, and then retired. But times have changed—and today’s employees no longer see learning as a one-stop shop for a job. Lifelong Learning is now more important than ever. And that’s more true for Millennials and Gen Z workers than just about any other group. These are the modern learners who are vastly different temperamentally, attitudinally, and psychologically than their predecessors, the Baby Boomers.