The trend in learning management system and other e-learning content writing has traditionally followed a "voiceless writing" model.
In this model, course creators write using a formal tone and text without style or affect. This is the writing style traditionally preferred by academia–one without any trace of an author’s voice or personality.
However, a burgeoning community of e-learning developers are creating content with more voiced writing. Particularly in an e-learning context, studies suggest that students respond with more interest to a voice with personality, in contrast to a formal and impersonal tone.
It’s true that in some cases, a bland tone is simply unavoidable–and that’s fine. But to create content with that blandness as the ideal isn’t wise. And too often, course creators fall into the trap of intentionally creating difficult-to-read content in order to impress learners, or so that students will have greater respect for the content. This is a bad idea.
What’s the best solution? Clear, concise, and relevant content.
Once you’ve prepared your course content and infused it with an interesting writing style and your own enthusiasm and passion for the subject, next comes the revision process. This is a major aspect of keeping your course writing concise and clear. Put your course through what writers call "deep revision." Look over your course and ensure that no sections, paragraphs, graphics, etc. look clunky, out of place, dull, or extraneous. Just as you used your powerful writing voice, use your authorial power to scrap whole pieces that don’t seem to fit. Any unnecessary bit needs to go.
Especially in online training courses, learners require content to be to-the-point, engaging, and one hundred percent relevant to what learners will need to perform tasks later on. These may be new skills, company policies, or any other critical information.
Just remember: voiceless writing in an online course is worse than live but bland and boring lecture. E-learning strives to be better than that. When developing content for a learning management system, keep your writing clear and concise, but most importantly, your own.
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