In the fast-paced world of online learning, clear communication is crucial for course creators. Learners often have limited time to spend on training, so when they engage with courses, the experience needs to be straightforward and easy to navigate. In this article, we explore how training materials can be revised using plain language to improve the learning experience.

Prioritizing the Learner

Imagine handing learners a training manual filled with dense, jargon-heavy text and lengthy explanations. Training doesn’t have to feel like a struggle. In fact, successful training modules are accessible, engaging, and even enjoyable. As a bonus, well-executed work-related training offers employees the opportunity to take a welcomed break from their daily routines.

Why Plain Language Matters

Plain language is a writing style that is clear, easy to follow, and uses simple words and phrases while avoiding unnecessary complexity or jargon.

  • Example using complex and jargon-filled language: “The institution leverages a comprehensive cognitive training model with an emphasis on advanced problem-solving techniques, optimizing individual learning trajectories while fostering robust cognitive restructuring.”
  • Example using simple, plain, and clear language: “At this learning center, educators use a training method that emphasizes problem-solving skills. They help learners improve their understanding by guiding them through different approaches to tackle challenges.”

The second example is more effective because it uses simplified language and direct explanations. The content becomes learner friendly and easier to grasp.

The Importance of Plain Language Writing

In the world of online learning, plain language writing is a powerful tool for designing effective courses.

Tips to write for clarity and understanding:

  • Put information in logical order, with the important details first. For example: “’Designing Accessible Outdoor Spaces’ is a new course that will be offered this fall” is easier to grasp right away than “There is a new course offering coming this fall called ‘Designing Accessible Outdoor Spaces.’”
  • Use active voice, with a clear “actor” in your writing. For example: “You must enroll in the course by Tuesday, April 9, 2024” is more clear than “Course enrollments must be completed by Tuesday April 9, 2024.”
  • Use language familiar to your target audience and provide definitions for any unusual words. For example, let’s look at the unusual word “contagion” (disease that is easily spread). Tuberculosis is an airborne contagion, which means this disease is easily spread through the air by coughing, sneezing and spitting.
  • Spell out acronyms as they are introduced and occasionally throughout the text. For example: “Every year, he donates $200 to the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA).”

Plain Language Adoption Success Story

In 2022 the OM Team determined that a set of onboarding modules for a private research university needed to be revised. The original modules were dense and text-heavy, making it difficult for learners to understand and engage with the content.

By embracing plain language and rebranding the modules, the creators were able to make the training concise, clear, and easy to understand. Learners responded enthusiastically to the new content.

Data showed a 44% increase in learner engagement and better understanding of the onboarding material. This success story demonstrates how plain language can lead to more effective and enjoyable learning experiences.

Final Thoughts

Plain language is not just a buzzword. It’s a powerful writing approach in successful course design. By embracing clarity and simplicity, course creators can transform their learning materials and uplift the learning experience for everyone.

You can find out more about using plain language and other accessibility topics by visiting Oleb Media and signing up for our newsletter: The Digital Inclusion News. You are also encouraged to download our guide on plain language: The Course and Content Creator’s Guide to Writing in Plain Language.