Until recently, creating good quality eLearning content was challenging and time-consuming. But thanks to the development of eLearning technologies, creating effective eLearning content is now simpler than ever.
Many organisations are now investing in eLearning tools to improve their digital learning content and deliver their training programs successfully to users, including learning management systems and authoring tools.
What is an eLearning authoring tool?
An eLearning authoring tool is a software program that is used to create digital learning content and distribute it to users through a learning management system (LMS). Authoring tools help teams collaborate more effectively and distribute courses wherever the learner is located. It also makes it easier to update the content easily. eLearning authoring tools can be desktop or cloud-based. Different eLearning systems use different eLearning formats, including SCORM and HTML5 (H5P).
What is SCORM?
SCORM, which stands for Shareable Content Object Reference Model is considered the gold standard of eLearning solutions. Technically, there are many SCORM versions: SCORM 1.1, SCORM 1.2, SCORM 2004 2nd Edition, SCORM 2004 3rd Edition and SCORM 2004 4th Edition with SCORM 1.2 and SCORM 2004 3rd Edition being the most commonly used versions. SCORM governs how eLearning content and LMSs communicate with each other. This means that if an LMS is SCORM conformant, it can play any content that is SCORM conformant.
SCORM authoring tools allow you to create SCORM-compliant content and publish them to a SCORM compliant LMS. SCORM is a powerful tool that can be used within and across organisations.
SCORM provides a good interactive experience for learners while giving you better control of the content you produce with its plug-and-play functionality. One of the advantages of using SCORM is its ability to track data within the course including test results and learner’s progress.
It should be noted that authoring tools can be costly and can be a steep learning curve, especially for new users.
What is H5P?
H5P or HTML5 Package is an online tool that assists content creators in creating and delivering content. It integrates with many LMSs platforms. H5P allows interactive content to be created without having to use plugins. It is also easy to use and is mobile friendly. H5P is ideal for non-programmers as it allows easy creation of widgets including quizzes, interactive videos and presentations. You can even create games, books or flashcards through H5P.
H5P content is fully responsive and mobile-friendly, which makes it ideal for learners who want to access resources on any device anytime they want to.
However, H5P does not have an auto-save functionality and a preview feature. It also does not have an image library. Another notable limitation is H5P’s lack of screen record capability. This means that you need to record your screen using a third-party recording tool while using H5P. The tool also does not offer the option of adding embeddable web pages. Any links added to your content will automatically redirect the user into a web browser.
The Bottom Line
eLearning authoring tools will help you streamline content creation and users to easily use it. It is important to make an informed choice before finally deciding on the right eLearning tool for your organisation’s needs. Research every option available to you and make trial runs.
If you are looking for more advice on eLearning tools and learning management solutions, get in touch with Skills Leap Australia! Book a demo to learn more about the eLearning solutions we offer.