04 – Learning Methods
Now that you have a topic, you need to choose the type of learning model you want to use. There are many types, but for our purposes we want to use ones that are quick and easy to put together. These can be:
• Videos
• Audios
• Written lessons
• Combination of different ones
Keep in mind people learn in different ways. It’s been shown that students are more likely to complete a course that appeals to their learning style. The different learning styles include:
• Verbal: Words using speech or writing.
• Visual: Images, pictures, videos
• Auditory: Sound, music
• Physical: Sense of touch using hands, body
• Solitary: Self-study, work alone
• Interpersonal: socializing, working in groups or others
• Logical: Systems, organization
All ecourses are hosted online but they are often taught in different ways. You can record videos or do screencasts or do live video classes. You can record audio lessons or use written lessons. Another option is to email the lessons daily or weekly, whatever suits your topic.
The three main learning models for your ecourse lessons are video, audio and written content. The type you choose depends on different factors and what is right for you and your ecourse.
Video
With video your students are able to see visual elements such as images and written content mixed with your personality and presence. You can either be on-screen, which allows your viewers to connect and engage with you or you can do a screenshare where you show what you are teaching.
Video can be demanding and will need to be edited. It might not be a good choice if you’ve never done video. But if you have, video is a great way to teach your ecourse.
Video can be done in a variety of formats. One of the most common for ecourses is talking head videos. They are easy to film and allow the student to feel connected since they can see you (or a part of you). Screencasts, slides with voiceovers, and animated lessons are all options for video as well.
Audio
If your ecourse doesn’t require visual aids, you can present it through a podcast-style audio file. You can show your personality without having to be seen. All you need is a high-quality microphone and the software to record audio.
Written
For those of you uncomfortable being in front of a camera or microphone, the written course content is a good option.
You can create an email series sent out on a scheduled time. Create and upload PDF files or slide presentations for your audience to download. Make the ecourse more personal by including stories, your personality and images in your writing.
Combination
Use a mix of different media in your ecourse content. A combination of different styles allows you to introduce variety into your course that helps keep it interesting your students.
This can be as simple as using videos along with written content such as workbooks, slides, templates or PDF transcripts of your videos. Whichever style you choose also depends on how quickly you can create it or have it created.
If you to award successful completion of the ecourse or create more interaction with your students, you can include interactive quizzes, tests, written assignments to be turned in, surveys, or infographics
Be aware of what type of medium is appropriate for what you’re teaching. Some styles won’t work well with your topic i.e. audio only with a graphics rich topic like photography.
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