The world of eLearning is continually changing, transforming from traditional courses to interactive modules. This would allow engagement, among other higher learning outcomes. Legacy courses continue to be a challenge as they were developed in older formats, yet present an important issue of not keeping pace with current standards and learner expectations. This blog explores the process of transforming legacy courses into interactive modules through conversion into eLearning, outlining a step-by-step pathway for successful transformation.
The Need for Conversion
Legacy technology or software is typically used to create them, which provides the outdated interactivity required for today’s learners. Such courses lack active content as well as multimedia and learner engagement methods. This conversion of such courses into interactive eLearning modules brings them within the definition of modern education and increases learner retention.
Limitations of Legacy Courses
It is first necessary to understand the limitations that legacy courses have. Such courses probably were created on outdated platforms, which made them incompatible with modern devices and browsers. Besides, they may lack interactive aspects like quizzes, simulations, and other multimedia features that capture the interest of present learners.
Steps of the Conversion Process
Before the migration process, there should be an assessment of the existing content and structure of the legacy course to identify primary learning objectives, gaps within the content, and areas for improvement. Therefore, this assessment will guide the updating of the module to meet the educational goals.
Conversion tools selection:
Select the proper tools and software to convert the legacy course. Modern authoring tools are like Articulate Storyline or Adobe Captivate, very advanced and efficient in building interactive eLearning content. They can transform static content into an interesting, interactive module.
Design and Development
In this stage, the course will be redesigned to include the integration of interactive elements. Multimedia elements such as video, animation, and audio will be included in the content of the course that make it more interesting. In this cycle, interactive elements like quizzes, drag-and-drop activities, and simulations will be developed to ensure better learning and engagement.
Integration of HTML5:
Getting existing courses converted to HTML5 would ensure compatibility with most devices and browsers. HTML5 can be effective as a full-responsive design course and must work well on desktop, tablet, and smartphone screens. For an in-depth post on this, see How to Convert Existing Courses into HTML5 for Better Compatibility.
Testing and Quality Assurance:
The new module is tested according to the finding of problems and correcting them. Interactive features are tested extensively ensuring that all the interactive elements work properly and the course runs well on various browsers and devices, using the response of an initial group of users who test it to fine-tune as appropriate.
Deployment and Monitoring:
Once the course is finalized, deploy it in your LMS. Track the performance and learner feedback for eventual modifications of the module. Continuous tweaks and revisions based on user feedback will ensure that the course remains effective with time.
Best Practices to Make a Module Succeed
Align interactivity with course learning objectives:
All interactivities should have the purpose of enhancing learner knowledge and retention of material.
Consistency in design and navigation:
Maintain uniformity both in contents and navigation in the module. It will help learners easily navigate their content while minimizing cognitive load.
Gamification:
Include gamification components like badges, leaderboards, and progress tracking to promote learners’ engagement and motivation.
The module should primarily be focused on learner experience. It should be at the center. It should feel very user-friendly, with interactive elements being intuitive and easy to work with.
Advantages of Interactive eLearning Modules
Interactive eLearning modules from converting the legacy courses have several benefits:
Interactive elements keep the learners engaged and actively participating in the course.
Interactive content helps in learning reinforcement that leads to better retention.
More Flexibility:
As the course supports HTML5, students are allowed to access it on various devices, therefore entitles the greatest flexibility.
New Content: The conversion of legacy courses enables the inclusion of newly updated information and best practices at work, so the content itself will always be fresh in approach.
Conclusion
Conversion of legacy courses into interactive eLearning modules is one of the most important processes involved in transforming educational content to enhance learner engagement. Following the above steps and utilizing the power of HTML5, courses can be recharged with life from the olden days. If interested in more details about converting existing courses into HTML5, check out our blog, How to Convert Existing Courses into HTML5 for Better Compatibility. Recharge your courses and deliver eLearning content that answers the educational needs of today and changes the interest of your learners.
