Develop Training: Quality E-Learning Checklist

Definition of e-learning

Electronic learning, or "e-learning," is training that is accessible through computerized electronic technologies, like the internet, intranet, or other digital media. Through a variety of instructional strategies, particularly interactive strategies, e-learning can be effective and engaging.

Quality e-learning checklist

Quality e-learning courses engage learners and help them gain new knowledge or skills. This checklist is designed to help ensure the quality of your e-learning course. It can also be used as part of a formative evaluation for quality assurance before releasing your e-learning course to your learners.

1. Analysis

• The identified knowledge and/or skills are suitable for both e-learning and for the target audience.
• Learning strategies are suitable to e-learning and for the intended audience.
• Clear and measurable learning objectives are suitable for e-learning and the intended audience.

2. Interactivity

• The course contains activities to help convey concepts and check for understanding.
• Interactions engage and involve the learner.
• Interactions meet Section 508 Standards.

3. Interface and navigation

• All pages are numbered.
• Contents page or menu is included.
• Home and Exit buttons are available throughout.
• Course information tabs are available throughout.
• System requirements are clearly stated at the beginning.
• Tabs link to additional information (e.g., Resources, References, and Glossary), if applicable.
• Print and Close windows, icons, buttons, or links are included, as applicable.
• Interface and navigation elements follow standard practices and do not detract from learning.
• Interface and navigation meet Section 508 Standards.

4. Content development

• Content matches course objectives.
• Content is accurate, succinct, and logical.
• Content meets the target audience’s reading level.
• Course uses conversational style (e.g., active voice, present tense, and second person).
• Concepts are organized logically.

5. Photographs and graphics

• Images are relevant to the topic and audience.
• Images support text and help convey the message on the screen.
• Images are consistent in style.
• High-quality images are prioritized over quantity of images.
• Images engage the learner and do not distract from the message.
• Permission releases of images are obtained, if applicable.
• Use of images must follow the applicable copyright law.
• Elements must comply with Section 508 Standards.

6. Learner assessment

• Assessment includes realistic scenarios or questions that match the learning objectives and overall goal of the course.
• Question development follows best practices, such as testing one idea per item, including only material relevant to the answer, and providing meaningful feedback that reinforces learning.
• Questions are well-constructed and follow rules for distracters, such as the use of reasonable distracters that are based on content within the course, and distracters that are similar to the correct answers in construction and length.

Resources

• Quality E-Learning Checklist
• E-learning Essentials: A guide for creating quality electronic learning
• Product Examples | E-learning Institute | CDC