E-learning is now the preferred mode of learning across educational institutions and organizations. While learning management systems are getting more complex and feature-rich, their jack-of-all-trades approach does miss out on advanced features that an e-learning authoring tool possesses. If you are on the lookout for the best tools out there, this blog post is for you. So, read on.
An e-learning authoring tool is software that allows you to create multimedia-rich digital training content. The list includes lessons, training modules, assignments, scenario-based training, simulations, and more.The highlight of these tools is that most do not require prior knowledge of coding. Instead, they come built with pre-designed templates and drag-and-drop features that allow you to create immersive courses in a fraction of the time.
The answer to this is subjective. If your training needs are simple, i.e., basic video lessons and assessments, you don't really need one. That said, if your needs go beyond the ordinary, you probably need an e-learning authoring tool. Here is a simple checklist that can help you decide if you really need one.
E-learning authoring tools come in every color of the rainbow. Each has its own strengths and focuses on certain aspects more than others. That said, a few features are common across the board, such as:
Authoring tools can classified into a number of types or sub-types based on various factors. They are primarily classified as:
Each has its own pros and cons and comes with different pricing models.
GyrusAIM is a feature-rich LMS system with an e-learning content authoring partnership with dominKnow. Extremely easy to use, features drag-and-drop content creation, and has support for gamification. Schedule a demo with them to learn more.
Articulate Storyline 360is one of the top e-learning software in the market today to create learning content. While it does not offer a lot for its price point, it also comes with a steep learning curve.
iSpring Suite is an easy e-learning content authoring tool that works best for anyone dipping their toes into content authoring or for those not looking for a full-fledged tool. It is designed to be used with Microsoft PowerPoint.
Adobe Captivate is a cloud-based content authoring tool that can create everything from video-based to responsive e-learning, gamification-based e-learning, realistic simulations, and more. All this does come at a price, as it is one of the more premium offerings in this niche.
EasyGenerator, as the same suggests, is a simple and straightforward content authoring tool aimed at novice content creators. They also have an extensive knowledge base and a help center to aid users in creating e-learning content with ease.
Elucidat is a cloud-based e-learning authoring tool that focuses on advanced users who need to create people-focused and high-quality courses. It has extensive support for localization of content and a number of advanced features.
Lectora Online is an online e-learning authoring tool that excels at creating immersive and multimedia-rich courses that can be multilingual as well as localized based on specific needs.
Evolve is a robust HTML5 learning tool that can create intuitive learning content in no time. It has support for simulations of a wide range of assessments and exports files directly in HTML5 format.
isEasy Author is an easy-to-use authoring tool that is cloud-based and can help you create content in minutes. The highlight of this tool is the ability to create learning content that is 80% compatible with AAA WCAG guidelines.
H5P is an online e-learning authoring tool that is open-source and free to use. Best suited for the creation of small courses, it allows you to create interactive HTML5 content straight from your browser.
There you have it, the top e-learning authoring tools. Choosing the right e-learning authoring tool can be a daunting task, but it's important to do your research and choose a tool that works best for your specific needs and matches your budget. The ten tools discussed in this blog are all great options, so take some time to explore them and find the one that is right for you.
Yes, learning software, otherwise known as Learning Management Sytems, is designed to manage and distribute e-learning content. Authoring tools, on the other hand, are designed to create e-learning content.
You need a dedicated e-learning authoring tool if your needs go beyond the basic, i.e., you need to create a variety of learning content fast and need the ability to scale.
Deciding on an e-learning authoring tool requires careful consideration of the following:
E-learning authoring tools are capable of creating lessons, training materials, quizzes and assessments, simulations, and more.
Yes, e-learning authoring tools allow high degrees of customization when creating content. It is only limited by the capability of the tool you are currently using.