How to Evaluate eLearning Guide

To assist L&D teams in the evaluation of eLearning effectiveness, CorpU has created the following How-To-Guide for
evaluating eLearning. Included are criteria to consider, questions to ask and why the criteria is important.

Criteria Questions to Ask Why Important
Objectives
Do eLearning and blended learning
objectives match or complement each
other?
Objectives that match or complement each other
will reinforce learning.
Consistency
Are the eLearning and classroom modules
designed with similar elements?
Using similar elements in the design will allow
learners to focus on the material and not the
course structure.
Real-World
Problems
Does the eLearning mimic real-world
problems and environment?
Using real-world problems and mimicking a real-
world environment increases the transference of
changing behaviors on the job.
Reinforcement
Does the eLearning reinforcement or
support the learning that takes place in the
classroom or on the job?
By ensuring that eLearning supports the classroom
and on-the-job training, concepts will be reinforced
and levels of learning increased.
Course Structure
Is the course presented in a logical format?

Are modules broken down into manageable
pieces?

Are directors clear?

Does feedback for questions appear on the
screen near the question?
All of the questions listed have been proven to
have an affect on the increase and retention of
learning.
Instructional
Design
Do practice examples reinforce the learning
objectives?

Are graphics and text relevant?

Is the text and/or narration conversational in
style?

Where possible, does the eLearning use
narration instead of text to communicate
content?

Where possible, does the eLearning use
working examples with real-world job tools
and situations?

Does the eLearning promote self-
questioning when learners are learning for
receptive eLessons?

Does the eLearning use pre and post
assessments to measure the levels of
learning?

Does the eLearning allow learners to
choose advanced or beginner options based
on their skill level and experience?
All of the criteria listed have been proven to have
an affect on the increase and retention of learning.
User Interface
Is the eLearning intuitive to use for learners
who are new to eLearning?

Are the icons clear and used consistently?

Do learners have to scroll down or can they
access all of the information on their
screen?

Are plug-ins avoided or available by easy
download?

Can leaners bookmark the site so they can
quit and return without losing their place?

Are help screens available to learners?

Is the eLearning accessible 24/7?
Keeping the user interference simple will allow
learners to focus on the learning and not how to
navigate through the eLearning module.
Global
Appropriateness
Are graphics and scenarios appropriate for
a global audience?

Is the eLearning general enough that it does
not refer to specific holidays or national
events?

Does the eLearning avoid slang, jargon, or
local phrases?

Does the eLearning avoid humor, which
could be misinterpreted?

Where possible, are icons used instead of
buttons with text?

Does the eLearning allow space for
translation if necessary?
With globalization a focus for many companies,
eLearning that is culturally sensitive will decrease
the number of customized courses that are
necessary to accommodate different cultures.