How To Use Downloadable eLearning Content
Technology can be a double-edged sword. It allows online learners to access learning materials from anywhere in the world, and when it’s most convenient. Social media, emails, and other online training resources may become a hindrance in the learning process, though. Another challenge is venturing out of wi-fi range when they need crucial information from the eLearning course. Here are 9 tips to use downloadable eLearning content.
1. Specify Which Tools Are Necessary For Offline Access
Clarify which tools online learners need to access the downloaded online training resources, such as apps, viewers, or video players. Provide links to relevant tools they’ll need to install on their device beforehand. For example, hyperlink the Adobe site so that online learners can download the PDF reader. You don’t want them downloading online training materials, only to discover they can’t open the file when they’re out of Wi-Fi range. In addition, make certain that you provide tools for different platforms. For instance, Android and Apple users may need to download different versions of the app.
2. Offer Topic-Centered Guides That Are Quick To Consume
Downloadable guides and eBooks should focus on a specific topic or task. That way online learners can quickly get the information they need and use the resource for future reference. For example, a handy downloadable guide that features compliance tips for your HR department. They can always explore the subject matter at length when they’re back online. Another downloadable resource to consider is targeted infographics. These give online learners a quick but comprehensive overview of the topic, and it all fits on a single page.
3. Provide A PDF Version Of Online Training Materials
Create a downloadable PDF version of the essential online training materials. For instance, a summary of the takeaways featured in your negotiation skills module, or a text-based version of the branching scenario that features a diagram in lieu of clickable decision-making paths. Just make sure that you follow tip #1 and verify that online learners have PDF viewers installed on their mobile devices.
4. Compile A Downloadable Online Content Library
A centralized online content library gives learners the ability to access all the online training materials in one place. They can quickly find the online training resources they require and download them for later use. Divide the online training repository into categories and include a brief description for each item. For example, "this demo requires a video player and helps online learners build their communication skills". You can also include these links at the end of their respective online training modules or activities, which allows learners to conveniently download the online training resources before they log off.
5. Choose An LMS That Features Offline Access
There are many Learning Management Systems that accommodate downloadable eLearning content. Essentially, online learners are able to sync back up with the system when they get back online. This allows them to track their progress in the LMS and receive credit for online training activities or assessments they complete offline. The system also compiles offline data and integrates it into LMS reports. For instance, the platform automatically grades the downloadable online assessment and adds the results to the learner’s profile.
6. Offer Microlearning Tip Sheets And Pop Quizzes
Microlearning tips sheets, checklists, and self-assessments are ideally suited for asynchronous offline learning. Online learners can even keep printable versions on hand in case of emergency. For example, they’re in the middle of a work task and suddenly forget how to complete the last stage of the process. The handy-dandy walkthrough they just downloaded features every step, accompanied by demo images. Survey your corporate learners and conduct a training needs analysis to determine which downloadable resources to develop. For instance, online assessments reveal that a majority of corporate learners struggle with product knowledge. In response, you can provide infographics or product spec sheets.
7. Provide Clear Instructions For Downloadable eLearning Content
People may not be aware that they can download online training resources and view them offline, or they aren’t sure how to access the downloaded eLearning content and view it on their preferred devices. Thus, you should provide clear instructions for those who aren’t tech-savvy. Label each resource so they know what to expect, including the file size and format. You might even consider online training tutorials or demos that walk them through the process.
8. Add Links To Relevant Online Training Activities And Modules
Online learners may need to gather more information once they view the downloadable eLearning content. For this reason, you should include links to online training activities and modules that tie into the subject matter. They’re able to access these online training materials when they log back into the system in order to improve their comprehension. As an example, online learners can click on a simulation hyperlink when they view the PDF on their connected device.
9. Create Printer-Friendly Resources
In some cases, online learners may prefer to print the downloaded eLearning content in lieu of using their mobile devices. Thus, you should develop printer-friendly online training materials that feature minimal images and colors. It’s also a good idea to use legible fonts that are large enough to read, but still reduce paper waste. In addition, keep online training resources brief so that learners minimize ink usage.
Downloadable eLearning content improves the accessibility of your eLearning course and removes the remaining geographical limitations that still hinder the learning process. We may have come a long way since the CD-ROM days of distance learning, and offline viewing makes internet connectivity challenges a thing of the past.
Offline access offers a broad range of benefits, ranging from self-paced online training opportunities to improved data security. Read the article 5 Key Benefits Of Offering Downloadable Online Training Content to learn about the 5 key benefits of developing downloadable online training content for your corporate audience and provide accessible online training resources even when there is no Wi-Fi spots in sight.
Do you need a new LMS that provides offline access to online training materials? Check out our free LMS directory to find the best Learning Management System for your online training program.
