Hello all, thanks for visiting "E-learning Experiments". During a recent project to refine microlearning modules, I discovered "The Elements of Style" by William Strunk Jr. While it is traditionally a guide for writers, its principles offered me new insights into creating instructional materials. This book inspired me to apply these literary principles to our e-learning content development, aiming to improve clarity and learner engagement.
With over twelve years in learning and development across India, I constantly seek better methods to deliver educational experiences. This blog explores how we can use the clear and precise rules from "The Elements of Style" to enhance our instructional designs.
Section 1: The Power of Brevity
"Omit needless words." This advice from Strunk is simple yet impactful. In instructional design, where clarity is key, it's important that every word helps learners understand better. Embracing brevity helps make sure that learners receive only the information they need, making learning materials more effective.
Practical Tips:
Review and Refine: Regularly check your materials to remove extra words and unnecessary details. This makes your content clearer and more direct.
Align With Objectives: Make sure all content directly supports the learning objectives. If it doesn't help achieve these goals, it might be best to remove it.
Example: Before and After Text in an E-Learning Module
Before: "The manager needs to ensure they are capable of communicating the company’s policies to new employees in a way that is both comprehensive and easy to understand."
After: "Managers must clearly and concisely communicate company policies to new employees."
Section 2: Active Voice for Engaged Learning
Using the active voice in instructional materials makes your content more dynamic and engaging. "Use the active voice," advises Strunk, which helps make instructions more direct and easier for learners to act on.
Practical Tips:
Convert to Active: Change passive voice sentences into active ones to make your instructions more direct.
Example Sentences: Turn "The training module will be completed by employees" to "Employees will complete the training module."
Example: Rewriting Learning Objectives for Greater Impact
Before: "By the end of this module, it is hoped that employees will have a clear understanding of the health and safety policies."
After: "By the end of this module, employees will understand the health and safety policies clearly."
Section 3: Consistency in Content Structure
"Express coordinate ideas in similar form," is a principle that Strunk emphasizes for clear writing. This rule is vital in instructional design, especially when creating a series of learning modules or a comprehensive training program. Consistency helps learners predict and understand the structure of the content, which can significantly enhance their learning experience.
Practical Tips:
Standardize Formats: Use a consistent layout and format for similar types of content. For instance, if each module starts with learning objectives, continues with content, and ends with a summary, maintain this format throughout.
Parallel Instruction: When listing steps or guidelines, structure them similarly. This uniformity aids comprehension and retention.
Example: Designing Consistent Module Outlines for a Course
Before: Module 1 starts with an overview, followed by content and a quiz. Module 2 begins with a video, followed by a discussion, and ends with learning objectives.
After: Each module starts with an overview, followed by primary content, and ends with a quiz or interactive activity. Learning objectives are presented at the beginning.
Section 4: Precision in Language Choice
"Choose words with precision," Strunk advises. In instructional design, the choice of words can dramatically influence the effectiveness of the material. Precise language helps prevent misunderstandings and ensures that the instructional goals are met effectively.
Practical Tips:
Use Specific Terms: Avoid vague and general terms. Choose words that convey the exact meaning intended.
Contextual Relevance: Consider the background and level of expertise of your audience. Tailor your language to match their knowledge and expectations.
Example: Enhancing a Technical Training Manual with Precise Language
Before: "Employees should use the software to input data regularly."
After: "Employees must enter daily sales figures into the CRM system using the 'New Entry' tab."
Applying literary principles like those from "The Elements of Style" can significantly enhance the clarity, engagement, and effectiveness of instructional materials. As we strive to improve our craft, incorporating these timeless rules not only refines our work but also enriches the learning experiences we create.
I encourage all instructional designers, learning and development specialists, and capability managers to experiment with these principles. Try revising a piece of your content using the tips shared here and see the difference for yourself. Share your experiences and insights in the comments below or on social media to help spread the knowledge.