Brick by Brick: Building Your Course with the Perfect eLearning Authoring Tool

 Crafting an eLearning course is like building a house - you need the right tools for the job. In this case, your trusty toolbelt comes in the form of an eLearning authoring tool. But with a vast array of options available, choosing the perfect one can feel overwhelming. Don't worry, this guide will equip you to navigate the eLearning authoring tool landscape and select the ideal one for your project.

Matching the Tool to Your Needs

ELearning authoring tools come in all shapes and sizes, each with its strengths and weaknesses. Some excel at creating mobile-friendly courses, while others boast advanced features for building intricate interactions. The key is to identify your course requirements and select a tool that aligns seamlessly with your vision.

Consider These Factors:

• Time: The complexity of the tool and your content's intricacy will influence development time. Choose a tool that fits your schedule and skillset.
• Learning Curve: Some tools are beginner-friendly, while others require programming knowledge. Assess your technical abilities and opt for a tool that matches your comfort level.

Exploring the Tool Landscape

Here's a glimpse into the most common eLearning authoring tool categories:

• PowerPoint-Based Tools: These tools breathe new life into your PowerPoint presentations, allowing you to convert them into interactive eLearning modules. (e.g., Articulate Studio, Adobe Presenter)
• LMS-Based Tools: Integrated within learning management systems, these tools empower you to combine text, images, video, and quizzes into comprehensive courses. (e.g., built-in tools offered by most LMS platforms)
• Desktop-Based Tools: Offering extensive customization and interactivity options, these standalone programs provide complete control over your course creation. (e.g., Articulate Storyline, Adobe Captivate)
• Cloud-Based Tools: Specializing in responsive course design, these web-based platforms allow you to create courses that adapt to any device. (e.g., Rise, Lectora Online)

Building Your Course Prototype: A Sneak Peek

Once you've selected your tool, it's time to create a course prototype – essentially a 3D model of your house (course) in the making. This prototype offers a tangible preview of the course layout, content delivery, and interactivity for stakeholders. Think of it as a crucial checkpoint to identify areas for improvement before diving into full-scale development. By starting with a prototype, you can ensure your course aligns with stakeholder expectations and functions flawlessly.

Choosing Your Prototype Format

Just like selecting the right format for your eLearning storyboard, choosing a prototype format depends on your project's needs. The core objective is to validate the design and functionality of your course before extensive development. Here are the most common prototype formats:

The Review and Revision Cycle: Perfecting Your Course

After creating your prototype, gather feedback from stakeholders and subject matter experts. This iterative review process ensures your course addresses any concerns early on. Clearly communicate what aspects to focus on during each review stage, transitioning from content evaluation to presentation, interactivity, and visual design. Finally, incorporate feedback into your course development, continuously iterating until you have a polished final product.

By following these steps and selecting the right tools, you'll be well on your way to building the eLearning course of your dreams!

This is a summary of chapter 7 of the book by Tim Slade entitled, The eLearning Designer's Handbook: A Practical Guide to the eLearning Development Process for New eLearning Designers