4 Effective eLearning Communication Strategies for Instructional Design

Clear communication is an essential strategy in eLearning and instructional design because of the fact that text is the most accepted form of communication in an online course.

It is very frustrating for learners when directions aren't clear. It takes time and effort to carefully plan out a course to avoid too much confusion.

Designing effective communication in online learning can improve learner outcomes and satisfaction.

Learn about communication strategies that will help you develop a strong connection with learners via online learning.

If you would like to receive a complete list of communication strategies, consider joining the eLearning and Instructional Design for Beginners Community.

Why is Communication So Important?

Of all the challenges in eLearning, lack of personal contact is probably on the top of the list.

Isolation, lack of support, and learner completion rates are frequent issues in the online learning environment.

The best way to solve this problem lies in better communication. Learners need access to their instructor in order to address questions, concerns, and to receive feedback.

Instructor or trainer communication with their learners is essential and learner support must clearly be distinguished to them. This issue will help them feel more connected and engaged in their learning.

4 Learner Communication Strategies

1. Provide Clearly Understood Contact Information

When the learners are having a problem in the course, you don’t want to add to their struggles by making it difficult for them to reach the instructor.

Contact information needs to be displayed front and center. If the instructor has a contact method that they prefer, highlight that.

2. Use Announcements

Communication with the learners should be utilized through the announcements section of the course.

This will save the instructor time if they can anticipate questions that the learners may ask. This will also help eliminate the flood of emails that may come their way if learners are confused.

3. Participate in the Discussion Forums

Instructor involvement can make a huge impact in an online learning environment. Of course, a healthy discussion forum should be led by the learners and shouldn’t rely on the instructors to stay alive.

But when the learners know their ideas are being read by the instructor, it encourages them to try harder and contribute to the discussion more thoughtfully.

4. Provide a Course Walkthrough

Consider including a course walkthrough at the beginning of the course. This is a great way to give an outline of what the learners should expect from taking the course.

Another effective way to do this is by including a video tutorial that explains how to navigate through the course and the learning management system.

If you wish to create a strong connection between the learners and the instructor via online learning, then you must take into consideration the suggestions mentioned in this post

The community  will provide you with a more extensive list of communication strategies for online learners. Join the eLearning and Instructional Design for Beginners Community.

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