The Four Levels of e-Learning and How They Affect Your Instructional Design

In today’s business world, it is important that employees are continually learning new things in order to stay ahead of the curve. With so many advancements in technology, instructional designers are also encouraged to diversify the approach to developing courses. One of the most commonly used approaches is e-Learning. There are many different types of e-learning available, and each has its benefits. In this article, we will discuss the four different levels of e-learning in terms of interactivity.

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Level 1: Passive Learning

At this level, learners are mere recipients of the information. The primary focus is to disseminate information to the learners such as announcements or changes in a procedure. Some examples of eLearning materials at this level include presentation slides, podcasts, video lectures, or demonstrations. Assessments, on the other hand, are usually limited to the most commonly used question types such as multiple choice and true or false.

Level 2 Learning: Limited Interactivity

Limited interactivity, on the other hand, provides learners with some interactive animations such as clickable graphics, video, and audio resources. This level provides learners with quick reference guides so they easily improve the fundamental skills needed in the workplace. An example of this is demonstration videos. In these videos, learners watch an instructor or a step-by-step recording demonstrating how to do specific tasks.

Level 3 Learning: Moderate Interactivity

This level requires a more complex interaction and customization. With moderate interactivity, learners are given more control over how they would navigate through the course. Some examples under this level include scenario-based interaction, animated videos, and custom responses. It is at this level that learners are somehow provided with practice sessions based on what they have learned through a scenario-based assessment.

Level 4 Learning : Full Interactivity

Level 4 mainly involves the use of games in delivering content and in improving learners’ skills. Games can be used for learning as well as for entertainment purposes. They’re often used in practice sessions because games can make learning more fun and engaging. Other tools used at this level include simulation software for chat or typing skills, interactive videos, audio, Augmented Reality (AR), and Virtual Reality (VR).

How do These Levels Affect Instructional Design

Developing courses is no longer based solely on the content. Instructional designers must consider several factors in determining the type of instruction, duration of the course, and even choosing among the levels of interactivity for e-Learning courses. Some of these factors include the budget, the target audience, and their availability, the identified goals, and the level of motivation of the learners. Thus, in choosing the level of interaction to use in your e-learning materials, it is important to consider these factors. This is to maximize the benefits of the course for both the company and its employees.