Creating impactful training materials is more than just putting info on paper—it’s about creating a learning experience that’s intuitive, engaging, and memorable!
Here are four core strategies to create training resources that actually stick.
1. Tailor Materials to Your Audience
The first step is asking, “Who will be using these materials?”
Once you have your answer, adjust your production specs accordingly! For example, using uncoated paper makes it easier to write on, and coil binding helps the material to lay flat. Both of these considerations are especially helpful for users who’ll be writing frequently.
2. Prioritize the Learner’s Experience
Design isn’t just about making things look good—it’s about making them user-friendly and accessible. Think about elements like white space, font choice, visual cues, colors, and general flow. These all play a big role in how easily information is absorbed and retained.
Here are a few ways to maximize usability:
- Visual communication | Avoid overwhelming learners with long, bulky blocks of text. Use visuals and graphics to break down complex ideas, or consider infographics for a more concise, engaging presentation.
- Short, digestible sections | With attention spans at a premium, structure your material into shorter sections. This gives learners natural pauses and a better chance to digest what they’ve just read.
3. Layer On the Learning Experience
Learners usually need more than one method to reinforce what they’ve learned. Here’s how to introduce multiple layers for a richer experience:
- Quick overviews | Begin each section with a quick overview of key topics, so learners know what’s coming and can mentally prepare.
- Interactive elements | Adding quizzes or bite-sized reflection exercises throughout helps reinforce the content in real time. Consider adding a little space for “brain breaks” or doodling—these small pauses can refresh focus and enhance retention.
- Call-out boxes | Call-outs, like “Putting It Into Practice,” offer readers practical examples and extra context, making it easier for them to connect theory to real-world scenarios.
- Chapter summaries | Wrap up each chapter with a summary of key takeaways. These overviews help cement important points and reinforce understanding.
4. Link to Supplementary Resources
Guess what? Printed materials don’t have to be standalone! You can amplify the learning experience by incorporating QR codes that link to extra resources, like videos, podcasts, or virtual demos. This added layer of attention helps learners explore content in different formats and deepens their understanding.
Before You Go…
Yes, creating thoughtful, learner-centered materials will help your training program shine, but it will also make it more effective and memorable for everyone involved!
Just one question: are you ready to make your material shine this semester?
Start a conversation at the link below.
