There's a big difference between designing distance learning and designing online curriculum. There's a question we often get asked: “How can I become an employed Instructional Designer?”  Some job seekers want to know what sort of certification they need in order to get a job. Other job seekers are frustrated that, despite possessing a lot of training in instructional design, they find it difficult to get a job. When answering these questions, we always make the distinction between the skills needed to develop distance learning curriculum, versus the skills needed to design asynchronous online training—distance learning and online training are…

This is the second of a two-part series about online learner engagement. This week, instructional and eLearning designer Laureen Barry provides some tips on online course development and how to make your curriculum more engaging. Make Learning Personal Adding a personal touch to elearning content is one of the most basic ways to boost learner engagement. For example, use the first person: I, me, you, your, to make the learning more personal. The personal touch can form the fundamental structure of your curriculum as well. You can do this by using scenarios or characters throughout the course that the learner…