Peter Huppertz

In the eLearning industry, "interactivity" is a term often misused. Many try to make you believe that incorporating fancy slide transitions, animated text, talking-head videos, flip card games, and multiple-choice exercises equates to interactivity. While these elements can initially make a course visually appealing, they frequently fail to add instructional value.

The Pitfall of Superficial Interactivity

Imagine a scenario where an employee spends hours flipping digital cards to memorise terms or answers a series of multiple-choice questions that do not relate to real-world applications. These activities might seem interactive, but they often do not contribute meaningfully to the learner’s understanding or skill acquisition. Obviously, in most work environments, employees do not flip cards or fill out multiple-choice quizzes. Instead, they solve problems, collaborate with peers, and apply their knowledge in practical ways.

Case Example: Effective Interactivity

Consider a customer service training program. Instead of using traditional multiple-choice questions to test knowledge, an effective course might use role-playing simulations where learners interact with virtual customers. They can choose responses, handle complaints, and navigate real-life scenarios. This kind of interactivity mirrors actual job tasks, helping learners develop relevant skills and gain confidence in their abilities.

The Importance of Meaningful Interaction

To truly add value, eLearning must go beyond superficial features and focus on meaningful interactions. Here are a few strategies to ensure interactivity is purposeful:

1. Scenario-Based Learning: Create realistic scenarios where learners can apply their knowledge in a context similar to their job.
2. Problem-Solving Activities: Design exercises that require critical thinking and problem-solving, reflecting real challenges learners might face.
3. Collaborative Tasks: Encourage collaboration through group projects or discussion forums, fostering a learning community.
4. Feedback Mechanisms: Provide instant, constructive feedback to help learners understand their mistakes and learn from them.

Background and Research

Research in instructional design emphasises that meaningful interactivity is crucial for effective learning. According to educational theorists, learners retain information better when they actively engage with the content and apply it in practical ways. Studies show that well-designed interactive elements can enhance learning outcomes significantly more than superficial interactions.

Conclusion

Interactivity in eLearning should not just be about making content look appealing. It must be about engaging learners in meaningful ways that enhance their understanding and skills. By focusing on realistic scenarios, problem-solving, collaboration, and effective feedback, we can create truly interactive eLearning experiences that add real instructional value.

By understanding and implementing these principles, we can transform eLearning from a passive activity into an engaging and impactful learning journey. If you’re ready to elevate your eLearning courses with meaningful interactivity, join our self-paced course and start creating effective eLearning today!