Step 4: Embrace microlearning
Once you’ve got the hang of reducing the length of your compliance training courses, it’s a great idea to consider “microlearning.” This is a style of e-learning design that uses small bits of knowledge to maximize engagement. Learners are far more likely to stay engaged when a piece of content is very small and easy to digest.
As a guideline, aim for a course length of five to 15 minutes. If you cannot reach your learning goal within 30 minutes, split it into multiple learning objectives or use a learning path (create a series of courses on compliance-related topics).
Use short paragraphs and sentences and get straight to the point. If possible, try using short video tutorials or easy-to-read graphics to condense compliance-related information even further. Visuals like videos and graphics can often explain compliance topics much more effectively than lengthy texts.
Step 5: Follow these best practices for writing content
Not everyone has a natural talent for writing but, with practice, we can all improve our writing skills. Good writing is especially important when it comes to complex, abstract topics like compliance. A well-written text helps readers understand compliance-related issues more quickly.
Here are seven key points to remember when writing e-learning content for compliance training:
- Know your audience. Describe compliance-related topics in terms that are relevant for your learners.
- Have a clear goal. Keep your learning objectives in mind.
- Don’t “bury the lead.” Put key information up top, important details next and minor details last.
- Write in short, simple sentences. Try to avoid sentences longer than 20 words.
- Use the active voice. Avoid passive verb constructions.
- Use images and videos if possible. This can help communicate complex information more efficiently.
- Always have your course reviewed before you publish it. Ideally, ask someone from your company’s management or legal team to review your compliance-related e-learning content to ensure its accuracy.
Read the fourth part of this five-part blog series. Or go back to part two.
