eLearning Authoring Tools
- Kasey Brown
- Oct 9, 2023
- 3 min read
What are authoring tools and why are they important?
Introduction
In looking up and gathering information about eLearning authoring tools, it is evident that there are many options out there and much debate surrounding what the best tools are for developing inhouse training modules. In order to understand which tool is best, it is important to understand the underlying purpose of an authoring tool and how it can help support the creation of digital learning courses.
What are Authoring Tools?
Authoring tools are programs that enable the creation of digital learning platforms without the need for coding. With the correct authoring tools, courses can be created that tailor to the needs of learners with engaging content. Authoring tools can either stand-alone or built-in within Learning Management Systems (Nichols, n.d.). While it is important to understand the basics of LMS and the preferred authoring tool, IT expertise is not required to use these two things cohesively. Authoring tools allow for courses to be developed in more affordable and timely manners when an in-house coding specialist is unavailable. They also allow the updating of the course to be done in a more timely manner, keeping the course content up-to-date.
Understanding modern learning within eLearning is important when considering an authoring tool to develop courses. In a world where things like microcredentials are really gaining momentum, it is important for companies to be able to provide fast, purposeful training that tailors to the needs of their learners. Authoring tools combined with a proper LMS can aid in providing those experiences in cost effective manners. Authoring tools enable courses to be created that enable mobile access, feature specialized tools, and are convenient to complete for the user.
Accessing Authoring Tools
Authoring tools can be accessed in a variety of ways. One of my most current trends is via cloud-based, meaning software does not need to be installed on a computer to use the tool. With all the actual creation done online, this allows content creators to create and adjust material as needed (Ganci, 2018). Depending on the cloud-based tool used, this option lends itself to be very beneficial in developing and maintaining course content.
Features of Authoring Tools
A few main features of authoring tools can include the types of interactions available for the learners or the ability to be mobile friendly. Inputting interactions that allow learners to complete a variety of exercises including drag and drop activities, surveys, or quiz questions are strong qualities to establish within a course. Also with so many learners learning on the move, it is important that they be able to access materials via their mobile devices.
In examining content to be included within eLearning courses, authoring tools can aid in delivering the content in a variety of ways. A few ways that content can be produced through the use of an authoring tool are through webinars, gamification modes, interactive videos, and chatbots (Ganci, 2018).
Webinars: Through the use of webinars, learning can be synchronous or asynchronous. Live sessions allow users to interact with the lecturer and ask questions, while recorded sessions offer the flexibility for users to stream the content at their own convenience.
Gamification: Through gamification modes, learners can grasp concepts faster by competing in games and being celebrated through leaderboards for their successes. Gamification modes increase motivation and engagement in learning.
Interactive Videos: More than just a YouTube link, interactive videos allow users to determine the direction of the video by periodically making choices or determining outcomes as the video is played. This is a great tool for teaching on the spot skill sets.
Chatbots: Automated assistance that operate through the use of AI, chatbots help walk users through content and answer any questions they have as they go. This is great for asynchronous learning opportunities because it can offer live assistance when the course creator or instructor is not available to answer questions.
Conclusion
It is evident that authoring tools are incredibly influential on creating solid eLearning opportunities. As an instructional technologist, it is important that we know the tools that are out there and how they can help support our fields. I feel like we have just brushed the surface of these tools and that they will continue to establish themselves within the eLearning world.
Additional Resources:
References
Ganci, J. (2018, November 8). What is an eLearning authoring tool? [Review of What is an eLearning authoring tool? ]. DominKnow. https://www.dominknow.com/blog/what-is-an-elearning-authoring-tool
Nichols, R. (n.d.). What is an authoring tool and do you really need one? [Review of What is an authoring tool and do you really need one?]. 360Learning. https://360learning.com/blog/authoring-tool/
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