We live in a digital age where everyone is bombarded with information. This makes knowledge retention more challenging. In this article, I'll share 7 tips to make your eLearning course more memorable with the help of eLearning infographics.
(Posted 26.10.2017 https://elearningindustry.com/tips-use-elearning-infographics-improve-knowledge-retention
How To Use eLearning Infographics To Improve Knowledge Retention
In today’s busy, tech-centered world, the need to gain knowledge is unparalleled. The irony is that everyone nowadays is too busy to find the time to learn. That’s where eLearning comes in. Online learners opt for an eLearning course because it is the quickest and most convenient way to gain knowledge. However, eLearning is of no value to online learners if they are unable to remember the key takeaways. Here are 7 useful tips to help you improve knowledge retention with eLearning infographics.
1. Transfer Knowledge In Bits And Pieces
Overloading online learners with knowledge will diminish the value of your eLearning course. In fact, cognitive overload is an eLearning professional’s nemesis, as it wreaks havoc on human memory. This is why information should be provided in small doses. Design your eLearning infographics in such a way that allows your online learners to absorb each piece of information before moving on to the next step. Once they digest a single idea or concept, they will find it easy to understand the next one. Consequently, they will feel more confident and self-assured, which further enhances the benefits of your eLearning course.
2. Only Present Data That You Want Online Learners To Remember
Relevancy is another key point you should keep in mind when designing your eLearning infographics. Only include data that is relevant to the subject matter. Try to keep the text precise and concise. This way, online learners will maintain their mental focus and absorb the facts and stats. Not to mention, they won’t waste precious time on topics that won’t matter in the long run. Before you publish your eLearning infographic, evaluate each piece of data and weigh its relevancy. Does it really support the subject matter, or will it just lead to learner confusion? If you’re unsure about which info to include, meet with your Subject Matter Expert to narrow down the discussion points. They’ll be able to tell you which facts and figures your online learners need and which can go by the wayside.
3. Repetition Is The Mother Of Learning - Make Use Of It
Repetition is one of the most powerful ways of knowledge retention. If not done properly, repetition results in monotony and boredom causing online learners to lose interest. Thus, you have to be creative with repetition, and eLearning infographics offer you the power to do so. You can present the same information in completely different ways. For instance, stats can be transformed into a graph, pie-chart, or a 5-point list that features compelling images.
4. Include Branching Scenarios And Simulations That Online Learners Can Relate To
Include features in your eLearning infographics that push online learners to reach the conclusions themselves. For example, provide different decision paths for a single situation, then give them the opportunity to explore the consequences of each choice. You should provide them with the freedom to experiment. This flexibility empowers online learners to put their knowledge into practice. The use of prior knowledge also allows them to capitalize on their existing mental schema. In eLearning infographics, you can use flow diagrams to present your data. Using real-life scenarios is the key, as this gives employees the chance to contextualize the information. The beauty of eLearning infographics is that you can incorporate links. As such, sky’s the limit when it comes to interactive online training resources that tie facts to work-related challenges.
5. Conduct Follow-Up eLearning Assessments
For more involved subject matters, consider a follow-up eLearning assessment after each eLearning infographic. This practice has two purposes: Firstly, after every eLearning assessment the online learner will have the chance to evaluate themselves regarding their level of understanding. This will give them the time to work on areas for personal improvement before proceeding further. As a result, they can build up advanced knowledge and improve memory retention. Secondly, this eLearning activity will engage online learners and keep them actively involved. Keeping online learners interested is a great way of ensuring that they are receiving knowledge with an open mind.
6. Add eLearning Infographics To Your "Moment Of Need" Library
eLearning infographics are one of the most effective just-in-time online training tools at your disposal. They are easily digestible and quick to consume. Therefore, online learners can get the targeted information they need whenever, wherever. In a business setting, the trick is to align each corporate eLearning infographic with a work-related task or performance issue. For example, a corporate eLearning infographic may center on how to successfully complete the sales process using the POS, or troubleshooting a software issue with a client over the phone.
7. Include Thought-Provoking Images
Online learners are more likely to remember the information if it forms an emotional connection. For instance, thought-provoking images that help them relate to the topic and leave a lasting impression. Their minds will automatically tie these images to the facts and stats you want to convey. Thus, they’ll lock it away in their long-term memory for later use. Keep in mind that your eLearning infographicvisuals should never blur the line between provoking and offensive. This is yet another reason why you should research your target audience to disclose their backgrounds.
Apply these 7 tips and make the knowledge stick by using eLearning infographics. Long-term knowledge retention yields a variety of benefits. Corporate learners are more satisfied with their jobs, which reduces employee turnover rates. They also enhance the effectiveness of your corporate eLearning program, thereby improving ROI. eLearning infographics may not be comprehensive online training resources that cover every aspect of the topic. However, they are a highly engaging and memorable aid that can improve memory retention.