Overview of E-Learning Authoring Software E-Learning Heroes

E-Learning Authoring Software Defined E-learning authoring software applications are typically slide-based applications that give you the tools needed to develop e-learning modules (also known as computer based training, online training, online courses, and distance learning). There are a variety of e-learning authoring applications on the market, but they all have something in common: they let you create a “learning experience” that’s viewed on a computer and/or mobile device.

Types of E-Learning Authoring Software PowerPoint Plug-ins These e-learning authoring applications are add-ons to Microsoft PowerPoint and typically let you add functionality to your PowerPoint presentation, such as narration and quizzes. This type of software is a good idea when you don’t have time to learn a new application because you need to jump in and start developing content immediately. PowerPoint plug-ins are best used to create simple, linear courses and are also ideal for reusing existing training materials, such as PowerPoint decks created by subject matter experts. Stand-Alone Desktop Applications This type of e-learning authoring software application is a stand-alone application that you install on your computer. It’s typically more robust than a PowerPoint plug-in, and has its own interface and a range of features that are not available in the more basic tools. This type of software is ideal for building more complex e-learning courses and projects with nonlinear (branched) navigation. Stand-alone e-learning applications can also offer robust software recording capabilities and more abilities to customize your courses and add interactivity. Web Applications This type of e-learning authoring software application is hosted on a server and accessed through the web. Web applications make it easy to share and collaborate with other team members because everything is centrally stored. You might consider this option if you’re part of a team that requires shared access to projects.

PowerPoint Plug-ins These e-learning authoring applications are add-ons to Microsoft PowerPoint and typically let you add functionality to your PowerPoint presentation, such as narration and quizzes. This type of software is a good idea when you don’t have time to learn a new application because you need to jump in and start developing content immediately. PowerPoint plug-ins are best used to create simple, linear courses and are also ideal for reusing existing training materials, such as PowerPoint decks created by subject matter experts.

Stand-Alone Desktop Applications This type of e-learning authoring software application is a stand-alone application that you install on your computer. It’s typically more robust than a PowerPoint plug-in, and has its own interface and a range of features that are not available in the more basic tools. This type of software is ideal for building more complex e-learning courses and projects with nonlinear (branched) navigation. Stand-alone e- learning applications can also offer robust software recording capabilities and more abilities to customize your courses and add interactivity.

Web Applications This type of e-learning authoring software application is hosted on a server and accessed through the web. Web applications make it easy to share and collaborate with other team members because everything is centrally stored. You might consider this option if you’re part of a team that requires shared access to projects.

Users of E-Learning Authoring Software A wide variety of people use e-learning authoring software. Some applications require no (or minimal) coding or programming knowledge by users. This means if you have average computer skills, you can use elearning authoring software to develop online training. Common users of e-learning authoring software include people who work in training departments, instructional designers, and course developers.

How E-Learning Authoring Software Is Used Specific functionalities will vary from software to software. The range of things you can do with e-learning authoring software include: Using text, shapes, photos, animations, video clips, and audio to present information Recording software simulations that demonstrate step-by-step processes Include quizzes, assessments, and tests to measure learning The main thing you’ll do with e-learning authoring software is develop training that’s available on computers and/or mobile devices.

Linear Courses & Non Liner Courses There are two general types of training courses you can develop using e-learning authoring software: linear courses and nonlinear (or branched) courses.

Linear Courses Linear courses are the most basic type of e-learning built with e- learning authoring software. The word linear means “arranged in a straight line.” The navigation for a linear course is fixed and flows in one direction. Learners click “Next” or “Continue” to advance sequentially from one slide to the next

Nonlinear Courses Nonlinear courses include branched navigation, often with interactive scenarios where you present learners with multiple choices or options. Instead of learners clicking “Next” to move forward in a linear path, they’re branched to different paths based on their choices or actions.

What to Consider When Choosing ELearning Authoring Software Do you need to be able to work within PowerPoint, or can you use another application? Are you looking to create linear or nonlinear courses? Do you need to create software simulations? Do your courses need to be available for mobile devices?

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