Why “WIIFM” Matters For ELearning

By: Justin Ferriman • March 31, 2016
Filed Under:

comp-deskWhen creating an elearning course there are many different components that are said to improve their effectiveness.

First and foremost: the course has to have quality content.

Without good content then the course will always be sub-par.

But let’s assume your course has really good content, then what? What should you be using to improve the learning experience and help learners meet desired objectives.

Should you add gamification?

What about forums?

Chat functionality?

Simulations?

The answer could be “yes” to any of the above just as easily as it could be “no”. Those kinds of enhancements depend on the course material, target audience, and overall elearning program goals.

When it comes to adding features there isn’t a hard-set rule for when and what should be included.

But there is one key component to any elearning course. Done correctly and the course impact is likely to improve dramatically.

Make Sure You Answer “WIIFM”

Right from the start you should take on WIIFM (“What’s In It For Me”) head-on.

When someone comes to a course for the first time they are always wondering if it is worth their time. Why should they care? This is your opportunity to tell them the benefits of learning the content in a context that makes sense to the learner.

The more pointed you can be when answering this question the better.

Frame the benefits (outcomes) in a context that the learner can relate to. If the course is for a specific audience then the benefits you discuss should directly relate to that audience.

When you establish up-front what the course will achieve for the learner in a meaningful way then they will be more receptive to the content.

Justin Ferriman

Justin started LearnDash, the WordPress LMS trusted by Fortune 500 companies, major universities, training organizations, and entrepreneurs worldwide. He is currently founder & CEO of GapScout. Justin’s Homepage | GapScout | Twitter