Why Visual Learning Matters
In this digital age, our brains are bombarded with new information every single day. So how can you make training materials that break through all the noise and connect with audiences?
In the workspace, e-learning can be a powerful tool for educating, upskilling and changing behaviours. Effective e-learning modules come in many different forms, but what they all have in common is a dedication to using visual techniques. That’s because, although we all retain information a bit differently, research suggests that 65% of people are visual learners. Don’t be fooled, words are also important for transferring knowledge, but only in moderation. If people wanted to read a training handbook the size of The Iliad, they would probably tell you.
The power of visual learning
Humans process visuals 60,000 times faster than text. This is because we decode elements of text step by step, while our brains can decipher multiple illustrative elements at once, and identify and remember images we’ve seen for as little as 13 milliseconds.
Although having a healthy balance of visuals, audio, text and tactile elements is important for educational materials, prioritising elements like photos, videos, graphs and diagrams – especially for communicating complex ideas – will help audiences grasp concepts easily.
Plus, emotions and visual information are processed in the same part of the brain, meaning visuals can encourage feelings of excitement, curiosity and motivation in learners.
There are so many simple ways you can add visual elements to your e-learning courses.
5 ways to make your e-learning modules more visual
Use visual storytelling
Use videos, images and animations to present a logical narrative, helping e-learning participants retain information quickly and engage with the content on an emotional level.
We recently supported the Fair Work Commission to develop an e-learning module, providing users with an overview of workplace sexual harassment. A live-action video was presented in parts throughout the module, with a single scenario playing out from the perspectives of multiple characters. After watching these perspectives, users had the opportunity to participate in the scenario through an interactive “choose your path” exercise. This transformed the learning experience from passive to active and invited users to understand real-world applications of the concepts.
Develop infographics
Infographics combine charts, graphs and images with clear messaging. They help communicate information in an engaging way and can be used for many different purposes, including explaining processes, comparing data, presenting statistics, illustrating timelines and summarising a concept.
In 2023, Optus Enterprise sought to improve its existing digital Hub, by adapting five PDF playbooks into a singular, self-led digital employee experience. We developed a range of bespoke e-learning modules for their new digital platform, each equipped with dynamic infographics using the brand’s signature yellow, blue and white theme.
Include a progress bar
Progress bars can fuel motivation in participants and give them a sense of purpose throughout their learning journey. It’s important for a visual indication of their progress to feature at every stage of an e-learning module.
Our recycling campaign for Cleanaway, Australia’s largest waste management company, featured two e-learning modules for educating primary and high school-aged children on the dos and don’ts of waste. Both modules contained a progress bar on the side of the screen and concluded with a celebratory certificate of completion, certifying each participant as a Qualified Garbologist.
Design illustrations and animations
Adding a human element through illustrations is a simple way to represent diverse audiences, strengthening a module’s ability to resonate with learners for better educational outcomes.
In another e-learning module for the Fair Work Commission, we used a variety of human illustrations to ensure their broad audience was informed on how to prepare for an unfair dismissal conciliation and where to seek support.
Illustrations are not only great for representing humans but can also be used to create engaging animations and visual metaphors, helping to simplify complex concepts and accompany clear messaging components.
In e-learning modules aimed at teaching cyber security to everyday people across the Pacific, we brought familiar oceanic scenes and symbols to life in animations, presenting complex lessons in an engaging and accessible way for learners with limited existing cyber security knowledge.
Have a consistent visual theme
A consistent visual theme is key for enhancing a viewer’s learning experience. Its tone should aim to resonate with your target audience and subject matter. Maintaining a cohesive colour palette and readable typography creates a sense of familiarity for learners, making it easier for them to absorb information as they progress through a module. Developing a coordinated theme allows you to inspire a certain reaction from learners, such as excitement or curiosity.
We created two e-learning modules to support the NSW Ombudsman in delivering a new Public Interest Disclosure Act (PID Act). Our training materials possessed a consistent visual theme, featuring a graphic device icon that alludes to multiple PID themes – it can be adapted into a speech bubble and suggests a process or the way forward. The device informed the visual structure of the module, with angular shapes as windows for imagery and information. We also used optimal colours for education and retention, matching different colours to different kinds of content.
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