The first step in an elearning initiative is to identify the gap in knowledge which needs to be addressed. Often, this gap is not identified correctly and inappropriate material is created.
Many elearning modules are bland and have too much text creating a poor learning experience. E-learning should be interactive and engaging.
A course with no program strategy will fail. This happens when content produced has no context and learners are not introduced to the goal for taking the course.
For elearning to work the learner needs to know the reason for it. Also, the learner needs to be assessed and given feedback.
Many e learning initiatives are created with any thought given to tracking. Tracking includes: who has enrolled? Who has completed the course? And, who is failing? If tracking is not implemented then the effectiveness of the elearning initiative is impossible to determine.
The LMS must be easy to find, enrol and navigate. If it is not user friendly and initiative then the user is less likely to return.
Quite often, the technology to deliver the elearning material fails. Consideration must be given to bandwidth and accessibility of the content. It must be assured the content can run on the PC’s available to learners.
Every stakeholder needs to be aware of the goals of the elearning program and ready to support the initiative. First line managers must offer support, and give the learners a time and a suitable environment to work in.
Executive support is necessary. Will managers feel that this is mandatory? If not, it is likely the program will be ignored.
A complete elearning program will include sufficient support. Sufficient means a support desk or an online forum for FAQ’s. Without access to support, learners will become despondent when they encounter a problem.
How will this program generate a positive ROI? The purpose of the elearning program must align with the business goals. For example; expense reduction goals, performance improvement.
The most important step is to integrate the elearning program into business processes. Ensure the program is accepted and endorsed by all management.
