How To Create Online Training Modules: The Ultimate Guide

The increasing use of smartphones and the Internet has transformed how people learn, with static online courses giving way to more dynamic, interactive formats. Technologies like Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), and the Internet of Things (IoT) are reshaping content delivery, offering engaging and immersive learning experiences.

Interactive training modules have gained prominence in corporate learning, benefiting both organizations and employees. By improving skills and knowledge, they boost productivity, reduce costs, and enhance job satisfaction, which in turn supports better retention and performance.

With access to a wide range of digital tools, creating training modules has become more accessible. Businesses that focus on clear objectives and engaging content can provide impactful training experiences, aligning employee growth with organizational success.

What is a Training Module?

In simple terms, a training module can be defined as a structured section of various e-learning courses. The content within a training module should be organized, designed, and created to smooth the learner's journey and retention of the engaging content it consists of. 

Grouping training units creates step-by-step learning. In order to achieve their training objectives, students move progressively through a course, completing each module as one section of a larger topic. It's a strategy for improving the digestibility of training delivered using a learning management system.

There are a variety of reasons behind developing online training modules. Some organizations want to provide employees with better growth opportunities, others want to improve customer relationships, and others are actively looking to reduce training costs. 

Additionally, you can utilize them to set your business apart from rivals or boost the marketability of your employees. You can use a myriad of learning modules to teach different topics to your customers, employees, or business partners. 

For example, one module can be designed for your sales teams, the other can be developed for new hires, and the other one might be dedicated to management persons.

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Types of Training Modules

Training modules come in various formats, each tailored to different learning objectives and audiences. Here are some popular types of training modules, along with examples to inspire your next project:

1. Onboarding Training Modules: Helps new employees integrate into the company culture, policies, and processes.
   Example: An interactive walkthrough of company values, policies, and organizational structure using EdisonOS’s drag-and-drop course builder.

2. Compliance Training Modules:  Covers legal requirements, workplace ethics, and safety regulations.
   ‍Example: Scenario-based modules with branching dialogues simulating ethical decision-making in the workplace.

3. Product Training Modules: Focuses on teaching employees or customers how to use a product effectively.
   ‍Example: Interactive video demonstrations with quizzes for a new software tool.

4. Soft Skills Training Modules: Enhances skills like communication, leadership, and teamwork.
   ‍Example: Gamified role-play scenarios for improving conflict resolution skills.

5. Technical Skills Training Modules: Builds specialized skills such as coding, data analysis, or design.
   ‍Example: Step-by-step coding tutorials with real-time assessments.

6. Sales Training Modules: Helps sales teams improve negotiation techniques and close deals.
   ‍Example: Case studies showcasing successful sales strategies and methods.

7. Customer Service Training Modules: Teaches employees how to handle customer inquiries and complaints effectively.
   ‍Example: Role-playing exercises with video simulations of customer interactions.

8. Leadership Training Modules: Designed to develop managerial and leadership skills. 
   ‍Example: Interactive exercises for decision-making and team management using EdisonOS.

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Module vs Lesson

In summary, a module is a larger framework encompassing multiple lessons, each addressing a focused aspect of the overarching topic.

Why Should Organizations Create Online Training Modules?

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There are many benefits to using training module formats for each stakeholder involved.

• Enhanced Learning Retention: Employees or team members can swiftly grasp and remember e-learning content from training modules. Each employee will retain more of what they have learned in their training courses, enabling them to perform their jobs more effectively.

• Improved Job Performance: Training module formats ensure that employees consistently apply the knowledge gained, leading to better execution of their responsibilities and overall productivity.

• Global Consistency: Utilizing training module formats helps businesses maintain uniformity across all locations worldwide. This consistency simplifies management for leaders overseeing multiple departments and reduces issues stemming from varied learning styles.

• Streamlined Onboarding for Managers: A training module format reduces the need to train new managers on every facet of managing their departments. New managers can rely on established practices, minimizing disruption during transitions.

• Preservation of Established Practices: Employees can trust that if certain processes have always been followed, there is likely a reason for their continued implementation, reducing the inclination for unnecessary changes.

• Reputation for Training Excellence: The speed at which word spreads about a business's proficiency in using training module formats can bolster its reputation as a well-organized and efficient organization.
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A Step-by-Step Guide to Creating a Training Module from Scratch

You may have heard the popular proverb, "Tell me and I will forget, teach me and I may remember, but involve me and I learn." This captures the essence of creating effective training modules. Developing a training module is like building a bridge—it requires a robust foundation of instructional design principles to transform knowledge into engaging and informative learning experiences. By following a structured approach, you can craft training materials that not only achieve learning objectives but also captivate learners' attention.

1. Define the Problem

Start by identifying the specific issue you want to address. For example, do your employees need improved sales training or updated technical skills? To uncover the root of the problem, ask open-ended questions such as:

• What issue needs resolution?
• What knowledge or skills are required to bridge the gap?
• How familiar are employees with this subject?

These questions will help you understand the business challenge and align training objectives with performance goals.

2. Decide the Course Length

Think of course length like choosing the perfect meal—too little leaves learners hungry, while too much overwhelms them. Strike a balance to keep learners engaged and allow them to absorb content effectively.

3. Know Your Target Audience

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Understanding your audience ensures your training content is relevant. For instance, a module for full-stack developers will differ significantly from one for graphic designers. Consider their learning environment as well—shorter, modular content may work for on-the-go learners, while in-depth lessons are better suited for desk-based employees.

4. Use Simple Language

Write at a 7th or 8th-grade reading level to ensure clarity. Avoid complex jargon unless your audience is already familiar with the terminology. Your goal is to enlighten, not to impress.

5. Plan Out the Type of Content

Choose content types based on your objectives and available resources. Here are examples:

• Text-Based Content: Use articles, eBooks, PDFs, or slides for detailed explanations.
  Example: Add screenshots from EdisonOS showing text-based module creation.

• Visual Content: Include infographics, diagrams, and charts to simplify complex information.

• Videos: Use videos for demonstrations, interviews, or lectures.

• Audio Content: Podcasts or audio tutorials cater to auditory learners.

• Scenario-Based Learning: Design interactive scenarios where learners choose outcomes, enhancing engagement.

You can use EdisonOS’s Learning Block feature to drag and drop different content types seamlessly.

6. Choose the Right Authoring Tool

Building impactful training modules requires the right tools. EdisonOS offers a comprehensive solution for creating, managing, and distributing training content. Key features include:

• Flexible Course Builder: Combine videos, interactive learning, and assessments.
  
  
• Real-Time Reporting: Track learner performance effectively.
  
  
• Gamification: Engage learners with quizzes and competitive elements.

These tools make EdisonOS a versatile platform for authoring professional training modules.

7. Divide the Training Program into Sections

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Break your course into digestible modules to improve retention and reduce cognitive load. For example:

• About the Company: Explain the company's mission and operations.
  
  
• Company Culture: Highlight values and social initiatives.
  
  
• Team Overview: Introduce team members and their roles.

8. Test the Training Module

Pilot the module with a small test audience to identify gaps and improve effectiveness. Analyze their feedback and performance to refine your content.

9. Run Experimental Projects After Revisions

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Collaborate with stakeholders for final revisions and conduct a pilot test before releasing the module widely.

10. Build the Final Version and Publish

Incorporate feedback, finalize the content, and publish your training module. Use EdisonOS to track learner progress and evaluate the module’s success in meeting objectives.

Interactive Additions

Include example images, videos, and screenshots throughout the module creation process. For instance:

• Screenshots of text-based modules in EdisonOS.
  
  
• A video showcasing the drag-and-drop course builder.
  
  
• Infographics illustrating module segmentation.

These elements make the guide more engaging and practical, enabling users to visualize the steps.

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How to Make Your Training Modules More?

Creating training modules that are engaging and interactive is key to fostering effective learning experiences. Here are actionable tips to enhance interactivity in your training materials, featuring EdisonOS's unique features and real-world use cases:

1. Incorporate Scenario-Based Learning: Provide learners with realistic scenarios where they make decisions and see the outcomes unfold. This hands-on approach keeps learners engaged and helps them apply knowledge in real-world contexts.
   Example: With EdisonOS’s dialogue branching feature, you can design scenarios where learners navigate workplace dilemmas, such as handling a challenging customer or managing a project deadline. Add voiceovers for a fully immersive experience.

2. Use Gamified Elements:  Gamification adds a fun and competitive edge to learning, making it more appealing and motivating.
   ‍Example: EdisonOS’s gamification tools allow you to create quizzes, leaderboards, and achievement badges. A company onboarding module can include quizzes about company values, with employees earning badges for top scores.

3. Include Interactive Videos: Interactive videos are excellent for demonstrating processes or explaining complex concepts. Add hotspots, quizzes, or call-to-action buttons directly within the video.
   ‍Example: Use EdisonOS to embed videos into your modules and integrate interactive elements like "click to learn more" spots during product demonstrations or safety tutorials.

4. Add Visual Content for Clarity: Leverage infographics, charts, and diagrams to make information visually digestible. Visual aids break up large blocks of text and help learners retain key points.
   ‍Example: Include EdisonOS-generated infographics summarizing sales techniques or visual roadmaps for project management training.

5. Leverage Case Studies: Real-world examples make abstract concepts relatable and memorable. Use case studies to show how theoretical knowledge is applied in practical situations.
   ‍Example: EdisonOS includes templates for creating interactive case studies. For a sales training module, include a case study showing how a salesperson closed a high-value deal using specific strategies taught in the course.

6. Encourage Peer Interaction: Allow learners to collaborate, discuss, and share insights. Peer interaction fosters a community of learning and helps learners clarify concepts through discussions.
   ‍Example: EdisonOS’s discussion forums enable learners to ask questions, exchange ideas, and participate in group activities. For instance, after a module on product design, learners can brainstorm and share feedback on their designs in the forum.

7. Enable Real-Time Assessments and Feedback: Quizzes and assessments gauge understanding while immediate feedback helps learners correct mistakes and deepen their comprehension.
   ‍Example: With EdisonOS’s real-time reporting tools, you can track quiz results and provide personalized feedback. After a technical training session, offer instant corrective insights based on quiz performance.

8. Incorporate Microlearning Modules: Divide content into smaller, focused modules that are easier to consume and retain. Microlearning is ideal for busy professionals who learn on the go.
   ‍Example: EdisonOS’s modular course builder lets you create bite-sized training sessions on specific topics, such as a 5-minute crash course on email etiquette.

9. Add Customizable Learning Paths: Let learners personalize their journey by choosing the topics or modules most relevant to their roles or interests.
   ‍Example: With EdisonOS, offer learners a flexible path to explore topics like advanced coding techniques or beginner marketing strategies at their own pace.

10. Use Real-Time Data for Optimization: Analyze learner engagement and performance data to refine your content continuously.
    ‍Example: EdisonOS’s analytics dashboard reveals which modules learners find most engaging. Use this data to optimize underperforming content, ensuring every aspect of the training is impactful.

To Sum Up

Researching, training, and development is never a ONE-TIME process. 

In addition to these ongoing changes in strategies and market trends, it's important to maintain your training modules. Making your training module templates appealing and pertinent for your audience and brand is crucial for a successful training program.

eLearning modules are a fantastic method to scale up the delivery of instruction on practically any subject. As a result, businesses, training institutions, and trainers increasingly depend on this effective, affordable, and accessible digital format to train staff members, clients, and business partners.

In 2023, firms will prioritize measuring the effects of training programs, increasing learner usage of training programs, and improving training effectiveness. They are devoting most of their efforts to learning management systems and e-learning authoring tools to accomplish these aims. As a result, more and more brands will likely see an even greater uptake of training modules and other e-learning techniques in the coming years.

An effective tutorial can improve the learning process whether you are taking a course in a traditional classroom environment or from the comfort of your home. Therefore, use your imagination to develop the first training module with EdisonOS.