A comprehensive guide to the ‘Don’ts’ of eLearning today

A comprehensive guide to the ‘Don’ts’ of eLearning today

Pandemic is probably not a word you had expected to use in 2020, but here we are using it on a daily basis! The ripples of its impact are being felt across industries including the fortunate ones that can work from home. Despite a surge in online learning due to the forced closure of learning institutions, the eLearning industry is not immune. We too are facing collateral damage from clients who have felt the need to put projects on hold or reduce budgets.

So how do we cushion the blow? Let’s take a look at a few don’ts that could help us sail through uncharted waters.

Don’ts of eLearning Today

1. Don’t skip a learning needs assessment: It’s critical to identify what learners already know before taking them on a journey of discovering something new.
2. Don’t forget to set clear expectations with SMEs: Inform the SMEs of the content required, format requirements, timelines, and backup plans.
3. Don’t forget to create buffers for unexpected situations: Having a timeline is great, but is it realistic? Ask yourself, the team, and the SMEs that same question.
4. Don’t reinvent the wheel: You may have reusable templates, code, and images from previous projects that can be modified and reused.
5. Don’t forget about rapid prototyping: Be prepared to fail fast and often. Then move to the next version without getting discouraged. Test early and often. Early feedback is critical to early delivery.
6. Don’t forget to ask for help if needed: Our colleagues around us can be great resources that could save us time if we ask the right questions.
7. Don’t forget to wash your hands often: Stay safe.

Conclusion

So let’s not forget that time is money. We can only keep within the project cost and scope, by making the most efficient use of our time. Remember, learning is not in charge of the learning budget. Our clients ultimately want a product to help them meet their bottom line efficiently and not just look pretty.

– By Darren Patel, Senior Executive – Content at MPS Interactive Systems