The design and user experience of a site or app play a crucial role in grabbing users’ attention and keeping them scrolling and interacting with the content. Whether the purpose of a site or app is to get them to watch another video or complete a course, the content and layout should be designed with a specific goal in mind.
The different design elements or strategies used to grab and retain users’ attention apply to e-learning as well. Using these current design trends when creating e-learning content will have a positive impact on user engagement.
1. Mobile-Based Design
When developing learning content, you should have mobile users in mind. Many content providers create content for desktop users, and without consideration of the different devices, they convert the same content to be displayed on smartphones and tablets. As a result, the user experience may suffer.
Improving the experience of mobile users means learners will be more likely to complete learning modules whenever they are available.
These three key design concepts will make your e-learning content easier to access on mobile:
- responsive design
- card-based design
- bite-size or microlearning.
Combining these trends helps you tell a story as learners scroll through content and move from one module to the next. Each module should focus on a separate concept, or feature an element the learner can interact with. Not having to spend too much time on each module helps learners acquire new information if they don't have time for a long session.
2. Minimalistic Design
More designers are embracing the idea of "less is more." We are seeing more websites and apps with simple designs that rely on open spaces, crisp edges, and a few bold colors rather than using shadows and texture.
A minimalistic design can draw attention to essential information without distraction. Try to opt for a monochromatic design to create contrast and make some elements stand out. Also, you can use white spaces to declutter your site and make the main takeaways stand out.
3. Visual Elements
Integrating images, videos, and other interactive elements into your learning content is one of the key LMS features to look for. Infographics, diagrams, and other visual representations can convey complex ideas more effectively than a paragraph of text.
Videos are another crucial element because they can add a social dimension to learning, for instance, by featuring a short lecture from an instructor. Most learners will retain information and stay engaged with your e-learning content if you use videos to tell stories.
4. Analytics and the Learning Experience
LMSs like Moodle or Totara Learn are compatible with different e-learning analytics plugins or solutions. These analytics give you more insights into how learners engage with your content.
You can use analytics to compare two designs, for example, A/B testing to see which layout results in better information retention or engagement rate. Analytics can also be used to track a learner's strengths and weaknesses so you can deliver customized learning content.