5 Tips for effective storytelling in Learning and Development
Storytelling in eLearning isn't simply about entertaining the learner; it's about engagement on a deeper level. When you create a compelling narrative, learners become invested in the characters, intrigued by the plot, and more receptive to the underlying message.
At Access, the dedicated team behind our eLearning courses has a wealth of experience in creating engaging and impactful content with the help of storytelling. We understand that truly engaging eLearning goes beyond simply presenting facts; it's about creating connections that resonate.
If you're looking to create similar learning experiences, read on for five essential tips to supercharge your approach to storytelling in eLearning:
Tip 1: Hook them with a narrative
When you choose a narrative style over listing policies and procedures, you're tapping into something memorable. It makes the information easier to follow and far more interesting. So, instead of outlining "Procedure 4.2: Reporting Protocol,” why not tell the story of Sarah, who encountered a tricky situation and successfully navigated it using the reporting protocol? This will help to really get the learner invested in the story – and highlights the power of storytelling in eLearning.
Tip 2: Storytelling is fun
When some eLearning content can be seen as dry and difficult to follow, it’s important to make it fun with storytelling. A well-told story allows us to step into different shoes, explore possibilities, and even challenge our own perspectives in a safe space. Think about how eLearning that incorporates storytelling often leave a lasting impression because they engage us emotionally, not just intellectually.
Tip 3: Three building blocks: Characters, Setting, Plot
Storytelling in learning and development usually has three fundamental building blocks: characters, setting, and plot. Your characters can be relatable individuals facing challenges or demonstrating best practices. The setting provides context – perhaps a specific professional environment. Lastly, the plot is a sequence of events, the problem they encounter, the steps they take, and the resolution.
These elements can be turned into powerful cautionary tales, showcases of best practices, or demonstrations of how to avoid common pitfalls. Telling a story is a fantastic way to guide learners through complex processes.
Tip 4: Storytelling matters
Storytelling matters because believability is key to making learning resonate. If your audience can't connect with the characters or the situation, the message could easily fall flat. When you're tackling complex issues, making your stories relatable is crucial for sparking curiosity. Remember, facts inform, but stories transform. When considering your eLearning resources, think about how you can create scenarios that feel authentic and true to life.
Tip 5: Three questions to ask
Before you begin working on your next piece of eLearning content, ask yourself these three essential questions:
- What is my core message? What is the one thing you want learners to take away from this story?
- Is my story relatable? Will your audience connect with the characters, setting, and challenges presented?
- Is my story well structured? Does it have a clear beginning, rising action, climax, and resolution?
By keeping these questions in mind, you'll be well on your way to crafting impactful and memorable storytelling eLearning experiences.
Storytelling eLearning examples
Now we have covered the five tips to help you create great eLearning content with the help of storytelling, let’s explore some examples. Here are two storytelling eLearning examples we’ve used within our own content to make essential learning memorable.
1. The Shift – Consumer Duty Training
Our Consumer Duty Training brought to life fundamental principles of the Financial Conduct Authority’s (FCA) Consumer Duty with the help of The Shift, an engaging series of videos. Follow a fictional character, Jack, through his financial services career and the challenges that arise because of his conduct and the decisions he makes.
Watch The Shift trailer to find out more.
2. The Mixer - Bullying & Harassment Training
To deliver impact with our Bullying & Harassment Training, we created The Mixer, a compelling dramatisation of some questionable events at an after-work party. It showcases individual reactions to the scenario and challenges learners to identify the harmful behaviours presented to them.
Watch The Mixer trailer to find out more.
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