It is accepted among trainers and the training industry that learner engagement and the user experience are linked. Learning is a journey, and an unmotivated learner is unlikely to stay focused on learning the skills and knowledge he was motivated to learn. A lack of engagement hinders knowledge acquisition. Thus, choose an LMS with a good user interface or customize it to meet your needs. LMS that gives customization options is Docebo, TalentLMS app, Absorb LMS, and others.
Defining Learner Engagement
The engagement of the trainee in a subject is a reflection of their commitment and involvement. Learning is a continuous process. The dedicated learner will stay involved not only in acquiring but also in retaining knowledge. In this manner, both trainers and trainees will achieve successful outcomes. Learning enthusiasts who are interested in personal growth and development are more likely to engage with the subject matter at hand. Yet, even those who are devoted to training can become disengaged if they are not satisfied with the learning experience. The usual requirements of training, such as revisions, tutorials, assessments, etc., become impossible without an excellent UX.
How should be your UX
Learning how to get a bored learner back on track is particularly challenging. This is one of the consequences of e-learning today. Students are more inclined to choose short courses and microlearning over traditional methods. Reengagement and regaining necessary attention are difficult in such a short period. Thus, it cannot be denied that the engagement process and elements need to be created from the start.
Engaging elements must be crafted by designers and trainers. This includes the key elements of any training program and strategy. Courses that follow a logical structure, content that is relevant to real life, graphics and visual aids, active learning, and group collaboration tools like meetings, webinars, discussion rooms, etc. All these aspects contribute to meeting the psychological, emotional, educational, and social needs of a learner. By incorporating all these aspects, you can enhance the level of learner engagement.
Critical Elements to consider
Accessibility
The UI should be responsive and simple to navigate. Design, colors, icons, graphical elements, etc., must be aesthetically pleasing. The user should not be swamped by information. You should make sure the users are comfortable and can interact with the UI without requiring specialized knowledge. Keep things consistent across all screens to prevent disassociation.
Content
Focus on training goals will ensure that learners stay focused when they are presented with well-structured, relevant content. Communicating the benefits of a particular course, in the beginning, is crucial for motivating and engaging students. Focus on creating content that engages learners. To make knowledge absorption convenient and easy to digest and keep, use small pieces of data, snippets, key points, and examples. You can spice up your content by including activities, quizzes, assessments, and content that encourages learners to take part in the learning process. Features like games, charts, and multimedia will make lessons more interesting and memorable. Learners should be guided by real-life situations and problems that relate to their work.
Communication
The learner’s interest can be kept intact by interacting with them both throughout the course and off-line as well. It creates an emotional connection with the user and makes for a better customer experience. Keeping learners informed and engaged with regular notifications, alerts, and messages is important. Engaged learners are attracted to personalized communications that help them feel recognized and appreciated.
Convenience
The ability to learn anywhere and anytime is now common practice. If learners can’t access training programs with ease, they may drop out. Multi-channel mobile device support is needed for courses so learners can consume information when and where they want. A positive user experience starts with convenience.
Conclusion:
To sum up, many factors contribute to the learner experience. This includes easy accessibility, simplicity, creative content, real-life application, and several other things.
Engaging learners isn’t a psychological phenomenon. There are ways to ease it and encourage it in training programs. It is an essential element of any teaching that increases the chances of learner engagement. Good user experience isn’t a preventative measure against learners disengaging from learning, it’s also an active strategy to keep learners engaged.
