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Every time I undertake a new e-learning project, I explain to my client that a good online learning experience needs to take into account at least six basic aspects: visual design; information architecture; web standards and accessibility; principles of multimedia learning; pedagogical considerations; and of course quality of content. Each of these components is important to enhancing the learning experience.
Visual design is usually an aspect that is neglected or implemented at a less than professional level in online learning. Why is good visual design and aesthetics important in online learning? Design and aesthetics have a profound impact on how users perceive information and learn, judge credibility and usability, and ultimately assign value to an online experience. This article will summarise the principles of visual design applied in online learning. The aim is for readers to review and apply this knowledge to enhance usability, influence perception, increase appeal, and make better design decisions when designing online courseware.
Design elements and principles
To apply visual design effectively, it is important to understand the elements and principles of design which underpin good visual design. The purpose of this article is not to cover these concepts in-depth but to remind e-leaming professionals of the importance and impact of these in the development of visually appealing courses. Briefly, the elements of design are: line, colour, shape, texture, space, and form. Principles of design are tools that are applied to these elements bring them together into one design. How these principles are applied determines how successful a design is. Successful application of design elements and principles is not an easy task, and it takes time to achieve consistent results. It is important to remember that the best designers sometimes disregard the principles of design. When they do so, however, there is usually some compensating merit attained at the cost of the breach. Unless you are certain of doing so as well, it is best to abide by the principles.
When developing a visual interface for e-leaming, the golden rule is to play it safe and use a symmetrical and clean design. Symmetry is an age-old device of the visual artist. The word refers to two halves that perfectly mirror each other. In design, symmetry is closely tied to balance....