Effective design doesn’t draw attention to itself. It subtly enhances the learning experience without distracting the learner. On the other hand, poor design sticks out like a sore thumb.
There are many advantages to custom elearning experiences, but even the best ideas won’t be effective if the design is flawed. Think of a person who has an image in their mind of a picture they’d like to paint. They gather the necessary supplies and stare at the blank canvas because they realize they don’t know how to execute the wonderful idea they have.
Attempting to design an elearning game without knowing the right way to put the great ideas into action is just like that potential artist. They have a great idea that’s going nowhere.
These design pointers can make the difference between a game that works and a game that flops:
- Always plan ahead. Successful projects begin with a solid structure. Create an outline that includes each component intended to be part of the game. Be sure to include the learning goals and the anticipated outcome.
- Set a theme and don’t stray from it. Consider the target demographic for the game, and choose a theme based on the specific objectives for that group. It’s easy to go over-the-top with graphics. Some think more is better, but the old adage is true, “Less is more.” The game can turn out to be a jumbled mess if there is too much visual clutter. Choose the theme based on the objectives, and stick to graphics that reinforce that theme.
- Keep the endgame in mind. Failure to stay focused on the learning goals outlined in the plan will cause the game to be ineffective. The most important information should remain front and center as the learner plays the game. Too much interference from elements outside the objective can be confusing for learners.
- It shouldn’t be too hard or too easy. Find the balance between the game being too simple and too challenging. If it’s too easy, the players won’t learn anything and it won’t hold their interest. If it’s too difficult, they’ll grow frustrated and give up. A happy medium exists, and that’s where the learning will take place.
- Show players the goal. Let the learners see what the consequences of their choices will be as well as well as what they are working toward.
- Make it fun! Learning comes when the participants are engaged in the process. If they are enjoying themselves, they will be motivated to persevere and keep trying, until they successfully reach the end.
The design of a custom elearning experience is vitally important to the success of the learners who will be utilizing it. Following the guidelines discussed here will give the game the best chance of being an effective training tool for the users.
