How will learner’s computer literacy and access to technology influence my
e-learning design?
What if my learners have low speed, (low bandwidth) connections?
Successful e-learning content does not have to be media-rich. Learners with low bandwidth connections will wait a long time to download copious images, sound and video or complex interactions.
If this is a problem for your e-learners, break up content into smaller chunks, use text and resize your images. A one megabyte file can take up to 10 minutes to download on a slower dial-up connection. In this instance, a simple text-based scenario can be more effective than a media-rich interaction.
In essence, try to keep the file size down and balance effective access to learning against the genuine benefits technology can offer.
What if my learners do not have Internet access?
You can still offer quality e-learning experiences without the Internet. For example, you can provide content via CD-ROMs, communicate via video and teleconferencing or even use Short Messaging Services (SMS) on mobile phones. You can also create Digital Coaching Aids (DCAs). These are essentially small chunks of content consisting of elements such as text, video, audio delivered via Microsoft® PowerPoint®. Check out ‘How can I offer e-learning without Internet access?’ in the Q&A section of Beth McIntosh’s E-facilitator area for more about DCAs.
What if it is difficult for learners to meet hardware and software specifications?
You will need to determine whether or not your learners have access to technology in the initial design at the start of your project. If there is an issue with learners not having adequate hardware or software, you can provide low-tech alternatives such as print materials and phone contact to give learners choices in how they manage their learning. Naturally, it is vital to ensure that the learning value and engagement is the same across the range of options you are offering. Learners shouldn’t be penalised for using a low-tech alternative.
What if the learners don’t know how to download the required plugins?
If you use video, audio or animation elements within your e-learning resource, chances are your learners will need plugins to be able to view them. Many sites offering plugins provide automated download and install processes, where learners simply click a button and it’s taken care of for them. However, it’s still very important to include a link to where the learner can obtain the plugin, a brief description of what they will see and what actions they will need to take.
What if my learners have never used e-mail chat or discussion?
Many learners may be involved in a collaborative e-learning environment for the first time and may not be familiar with e-mail, chat or discussion tools. In this case, it is important to design a thorough induction program which gives the learners the chance to acquire these skills and experiences before their formal learning program begins.