How to Write in Plain language: Microlearning Course
Why I created it
I created this project to make digital content more accessible through plain language techniques. It addresses communication barriers that affect people with cognitive disabilities, non-native speakers, and those with reading difficulties. This work is particularly important since 1 in 5 Americans has a cognitive disability that affects reading comprehension.
Through this project, I developed skills in microlearning design, accessibility-focused content creation, and interactive e-learning development. My goal was to improve how I communicate complex principles in a short, engaging format that users can complete in under 10 minutes.
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Project Details
Date: April 2024
Role: eLearning Designer
Brief: Create a microlearning course on Plain Language writing
Duration: 2 days
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Tools used
Genially
Freepik
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Skills
Microlearning
Chunking
Using Genially
Project Overview
This microlearning module teaches content creators and communications professionals how to revise complex text into plain language, making content more accessible to all users, especially those with cognitive disabilities.
My role as the eLearning Designer included content development, instructional design, interactive element creation, and implementation planning. I was responsible for the entire project from conception to delivery.
Key constraints included keeping the training under 10 minutes while still covering four essential principles and providing practice opportunities for learners.
Learning Objectives
The microlearning module addresses one primary measurable learning objective:
By the end of this 10-minute microlearning module, learners will be able to revise complex text into plain language using four key principles to make content more accessible for all users.
The training follows WCAG 2.1 guidelines for accessible content and incorporates microlearning best practices as outlined by Cathy Moore.
Demo
Design Process
Instructional Strategy
The instructional approach focuses on immediate application of plain language principles through before/after examples and practice opportunities. The module uses a scaffolded approach that introduces each principle individually before combining them in a final practice activity.
Key strategies included:
Creating emotional connection by highlighting accessibility statistics
Using side-by-side before/after examples for immediate comparison
Incorporating mini-practice activities after each principle
Visual Design
In an effort to stick to the theme of plain language, I decided to go with a very simple design and color palette. I used Blue-purple-white-and black. This theme supports the simple but effective nature the course.
Challenges and Future Iterations
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Challenges and Future Iterations *
The hardest part was fitting thorough content into just 10 minutes. I solved this by narrowing down to one main goal with four supporting ideas instead of trying to cover too many topics. I also kept the interactive elements simple to engage learners without making things unnecessarily complicated.
In the future, I'd like to expand this into a series of short lessons covering different aspects of digital accessibility. It might also be effective to add writing exercises or create examples tailored to specific job roles to make the learning feel more personal and realistic. I would also want to include more videos, audio, and visual elements in the next version.
I’d also like to note that I LOVE Genially for Microlearning. The default transitions and built-in interactivities create effortless engagement. It’s also very user-friendly. I had no issues creating something beautiful and effective as a first-time user.
Competencies
Microlearning design
Accessibility-focused content development
Concise instructional writing
Time-constrained instructional design