Planning an Effective Elearning Content Creation Strategy to Attract Your Ideal Students
Apr 8, 2025, 12:00 AM
Many course creators fall into the trap of thinking “more is better”—that the more information you cram into your course, the more valuable it becomes. However, in reality, that approach often overwhelms learners. Your audience isn’t looking for a firehose of information—they’re looking for clarity, support, and a path they can actually follow.
Your learners are busy. Distracted. Maybe even a little intimidated.
If your course feels like a chore, they’re going to check out fast.
So, what keeps them engaged?
Its content feels like it was made just for them.
Content that speaks their language, gets their struggles, and leads them step-by-step toward something they actually care about.
And that’s the heart of effective eLearning content creation—crafting learning experiences that are purposeful, accessible, and built around real human needs.
To create that kind of experience, you’ve got to start by knowing your learners—really knowing them.
Who are they?
What’s frustrating them about learning right now?
What’s keeping them from making progress?
What would a meaningful win look like for them?
Complex learning paths, dense jargon, and endless lectures don’t build transformation—they build dropout rates.
But when your strategy is built around your learners—their needs, their pace, their goals—your content becomes more than educational.
Understand Who You're Creating Your eLearning Content Creation Strategy For
A content strategy that connects starts with understanding exactly who you’re building for. Here’s how:
1. Talk to Real People (Not Just Your Assumptions)
Run short interviews or surveys with your past or potential students.
Ask questions like:
What made you look for a course like this?
What’s been your biggest frustration while learning online?
What would success look like for you after taking this course?
Tool Tip: Use Google Forms, Typeform, or just a Zoom call to keep it simple.
Source
2. Explore Where They Hang Out
Look at Reddit, Facebook Groups, LinkedIn communities, or niche forums.
Search for threads like:
“Best way to learn [topic] online”
“Struggling with [skill/problem]”
Take note of the language they use, the problems they raise, and what solutions they’ve tried.
Source
3. Create Student Personas
Summarize your findings into a few “learner profiles” to guide your online course creation.
Example Persona:
Name: Sarah
Age: 32
Role: Small business owner
Goal: Learn SEO basics to improve her online store
Pain Points: Doesn’t have time, gets overwhelmed with jargon
Now, build your course with Sarah in mind.
4. Analyze Course Feedback and Drop-Off Points
Already have a course running? Perfect.
Look at quiz results, video completion rates, and survey responses.
Where do people drop off?
What modules get the most “aha” moments or positive feedback?
Example: If 80% of students drop off in Module 3, it may be too dense or confusing—time to simplify or split it.
Source
5. Use Search and Analytics Tools
Use tools like:
Google Search Console – to see what people are searching before landing on your site.
AnswerThePublic or AlsoAsked – to see common questions around your course topic.
ChatGPT – Use AI tools to summarize online discussions from forums or feedback.
Tip: Search “What are people struggling with when learning [your topic]?” and feed those discussions into ChatGPT for insights.
Bonus Tip: Use the eLearning Content Opportunity Finder to uncover high-demand topics and create engaging, effective, and inclusive eLearning content strategies that cater to diverse learner populations while addressing technical challenges and fostering meaningful interactions between instructors and students.  |
What’s Holding Your Learners Back? Best Practices to Remove eLearning Content Creation Strategy Roadblocks
After understanding your target learners, ensure your strategy is supported by the following best practices to maximize learner engagement, accessibility, and long-term success. Here are the best practices based on market research:
Build Trust
Challenges:
A lack of real connection often keeps potential learners from hitting “buy.” If your audience doesn’t feel seen, heard, or engaged, they’re more likely to scroll past your course—even if it’s exactly what they need.
Best Practices:
Use social media to open up real conversations—not just broadcast announcements.
Run polls, Q&As, or “this or that” posts to encourage participation
Go live to answer questions, break down a concept, or just chat casually
Use Stories or Reels to share behind-the-scenes moments or learner wins
Ask your audience what they’re struggling with and respond with tips or mini-lessons
Source
Overcome Technical Limitations
Challenges: Learners may experience slow internet connections, software bugs, or hardware incompatibility, which disrupts their learning flow and causes frustration or dropouts.
Source
Best Practices:
Design intuitive, mobile-friendly course interfaces.
Optimize media for fast loading and minimal buffering.
Offer offline access (PDFs, downloadable videos).
Ensure fast, reliable tech support for users.
Example:
Compress videos using tools like HandBrake to reduce file sizes without losing quality. Offer a "Low Bandwidth Mode" option on your course platform. Provide downloadable lesson transcripts and resources and integrate a chatbot or ticket-based support system for quick tech troubleshooting.
Enhance Learner Engagement and Motivation
Challenges: The lack of live interaction or real-time feedback often leads to learner isolation, boredom, and course abandonment.
Best Practices:
Define clear learning goals and progress milestones.
Include interactive elements like quizzes and discussions.
Use gamification (badges, points, streaks).
Encourage communication with instructors and peers.
Example:
Add progress bars and streak rewards using your LMS's gamification plugins (e.g., LearnDash’s BadgeOS). Insert quizzes at the end of each module to maintain engagement. Use tools like Zoom or Circle to host live Q&As and create a private student group for peer support.
Source
Ensure Content Quality and Relevance
Challenges: Outdated or irrelevant material lowers engagement and doesn't deliver meaningful value to learners.
Best Practices:
Review and update course content regularly.
Align with current industry trends and tools.
Involve SMEs in course creation and feedback.
Use case studies and real-world scenarios.
Example:
Set a quarterly reminder to audit your content and update any outdated info. Subscribe to industry newsletters to stay current. Involve guest experts in review sessions and gather feedback via surveys to improve lesson accuracy and relevance.
Personalize the Learning Experience
Challenges: Learners have different backgrounds, learning styles, and goals — a rigid course structure fails to accommodate them all.
Best Practices:
Use adaptive learning tools that tailor content.
Let learners choose topics or modules that interest them.
Assess learners at the start to identify knowledge gaps.
Example:
Create multiple learning tracks (beginner, intermediate, advanced) and allow learners to choose based on a quick intro quiz. Use tools like LearnDash Groups or MemberPress to unlock content progressively based on learner progress or interest.
Increase Interaction with Instructors
Challenges: Limited instructor access leads to missed learning opportunities and a lack of clarity when learners need help.
Best Practices:
Offer live sessions and office hours.
Use discussion boards or chat communities.
Provide detailed, constructive feedback.
Example:
Use Calendly to schedule weekly virtual office hours and integrate them into your LMS. Create a private Slack or Discord community for your students. After assignment submissions, offer personalized Loom video feedback to make it feel more direct and supportive.
Promote your Uniqueness
Challenges:
In a crowded market, it’s easy to get lost in the noise. If your course doesn’t have a unique hook or feel professional, people will scroll past it.
Best Practices:
Identify and promote your course’s unique benefits or teaching style
Invest in clean, branded course visuals and intuitive UX.
Use storytelling, interactive elements, and real-world applications.
Choose a niche and speak directly to a specific audience segment.
Example:
Instead of launching a general “Photography 101” course, Alex created “Street Photography for Solo Travelers,” with location-based assignments and raw, documentary-style visuals. His niche focus helped him get featured on photography blogs and drove consistent traffic from search engines.
SEO-Friendly Content
Challenges:
Even the best content can’t convert if no one sees it. Many creators struggle with low visibility, poor SEO, or weak marketing funnels.
Best Practices:
Write SEO-friendly content around topics your audience is searching for.
Create irresistible lead magnets (checklists, free mini-courses, templates).
Use opt-in funnels, retargeting ads, and strategic email sequences.
Partner with creators or communities to tap into new audiences.
Example:
Emily launched a course on digital organization but had no site traffic. She started a blog around “decluttering your digital life,” offered a free productivity planner, and appeared on two podcasts. In 8 weeks, her traffic tripled, and she grew her email list by 1,000+ subscribers. Use eLearning Content Opportunity Finder to find popular topics, tailor your course ideas, and align your content with what your learners need for starters.
Incorporating the 7 Smart Moves to Plan Your eLearning Content Creation Strategy That Works
Once you’ve identified your ideal learners and their pain points, use those insights to shape a content strategy that speaks directly to their needs. Start by applying the following 7 simple but powerful smart moves that are not only educational but also effective and engaging.
1. Start with a Clear, Simple Structure
A logical and consistent content flow keeps learners focused and makes the material easier to absorb. Start with an overview and clearly defined learning outcomes. Organize content into modules or units that build progressively.
✅ Action Tip: Begin with a short course overview and define what learners will gain. Use modules like chapters in a book—with mini goals and short quizzes along the way.
Example: Use sections like "Introduction → Key Concepts → Practice Quiz → Wrap-Up Recap" to keep learners focused and on track.
2. Know Your Why (and Theirs)
Without clear goals, content risks being unfocused — and learners disengage quickly. Identify the core objective of each course: What should learners know or do differently after completing it? Keep every piece of content aligned with this purpose — cut the fluff.
✅ Action Tip: Ask yourself: “What should my learners be able to do after this?” Then, reverse engineer the lesson to focus on that result.
Example: Instead of a vague goal like “Understand marketing basics,” use “Create a basic digital ad campaign by the end of the module.”
3. Make It Personal
Learners are more engaged when the content feels relevant to their roles, goals, or skill levels. Use learner personas to tailor content paths (e.g., beginner vs. advanced learners). Offer adaptive learning paths that change based on learner choices or quiz results. Incorporate real-life scenarios from the learner’s domain or industry.
✅ Action Tip: Create paths for different levels (e.g., Beginner vs. Pro), and use examples or case studies that reflect their industry.
Example: A sales course could include scenarios like “Pitching to a hesitant client” for beginners and “Handling objections in high-stakes B2B deals” for advanced learners.
4. Say It With Video (But Keep It Short)
Video is engaging, visually rich, and ideal for explaining complex topics in a more digestible way. Use short, focused videos (under 6 minutes) for microlearning. Add closed captions and transcripts to support different learning needs and improve accessibility.
✅ Action Tip: Keep videos under 6 minutes and include captions for accessibility. Break one big topic into a series of bite-sized clips.
Example: Instead of one 30-min lecture on UX design, break it into 5 quick videos like “What is UX?” → “User Research Basics” → “Wireframing 101.”
5. Go Mobile or Go Home
Today’s learners are mobile-first — accessibility on the go is non-negotiable. Use a mobile-responsive LMS or learning app. Break long lessons into bite-sized, mobile-friendly modules. Allow learners to download content for offline access.
Source
✅ Action Tip: Use mobile-friendly platforms and break content into bite-sized lessons that load fast and feel smooth on small screens.
Example: Offer downloadable PDFs, audio lessons, or offline quizzes they can complete on the go.
6. Make Your Learners the Hero
Learner-centric design leads to better understanding, retention, and satisfaction. Focus on solving real-world problems learners face, not just delivering information. Allow for active learning through practice exercises, simulations, or decision-based scenarios.
✅ Action Tip: Include interactive elements like scenarios, simulations, or choices that lead to different outcomes.
Example: In a leadership course, give learners a challenge: “What would you do if your team misses a deadline? Choose your response and see the consequences.”
7. Ask, Listen, and Continuously Improve
Continuous improvement keeps your content relevant, effective, and aligned with learner needs. Collect learner feedback through post-course surveys, quizzes, or pulse checks. Update content regularly to reflect new information, learner insights, or engagement trends.
✅ Action Tip: Add short feedback forms, polls, or end-of-module surveys. Look for common pain points and fix them quickly.
Example: If many learners say a quiz was confusing or too complicated, break it into smaller sections or offer hints next time.
Source
Final Thoughts: Keep It Real, Keep It Learner-First
Here’s the thing: Creating a great course isn’t about stuffing in as much info as possible or trying to sound super smart.
It’s about helping your learners get where they want to go without making it harder than it needs to be. When your content feels clear, your videos are short and helpful, and your layout actually makes sense on a phone—that’s when people stick around.
And honestly? You don’t need to be fancy. You just need to care about who you’re teaching and how they learn. Build something that feels useful and real, and your students will feel it. That’s what makes a course go from “meh” to memorable.
That’s where the eLearning Content Opportunity Finder can really help. It takes the guesswork out by showing you exactly what topics, keywords, and pain points your audience cares about—so you can create content they’re already out there looking for.
Many course creators fall into the trap of thinking “more is better”—that the more information you cram into your course, the more valuable it becomes. However, in reality, that approach often overwhelms learners. Your audience isn’t looking for a firehose of information—they’re looking for clarity, support, and a path they can actually follow.
Your learners are busy. Distracted. Maybe even a little intimidated.
If your course feels like a chore, they’re going to check out fast.
So, what keeps them engaged?
Its content feels like it was made just for them.
Content that speaks their language, gets their struggles, and leads them step-by-step toward something they actually care about.
And that’s the heart of effective eLearning content creation—crafting learning experiences that are purposeful, accessible, and built around real human needs.
To create that kind of experience, you’ve got to start by knowing your learners—really knowing them.
Who are they?
What’s frustrating them about learning right now?
What’s keeping them from making progress?
What would a meaningful win look like for them?
Complex learning paths, dense jargon, and endless lectures don’t build transformation—they build dropout rates.
But when your strategy is built around your learners—their needs, their pace, their goals—your content becomes more than educational.
Understand Who You're Creating Your eLearning Content Creation Strategy For
A content strategy that connects starts with understanding exactly who you’re building for. Here’s how:
1. Talk to Real People (Not Just Your Assumptions)
Run short interviews or surveys with your past or potential students.
Ask questions like:
What made you look for a course like this?
What’s been your biggest frustration while learning online?
What would success look like for you after taking this course?
Tool Tip: Use Google Forms, Typeform, or just a Zoom call to keep it simple.
Source
2. Explore Where They Hang Out
Look at Reddit, Facebook Groups, LinkedIn communities, or niche forums.
Search for threads like:
“Best way to learn [topic] online”
“Struggling with [skill/problem]”
Take note of the language they use, the problems they raise, and what solutions they’ve tried.
Source
3. Create Student Personas
Summarize your findings into a few “learner profiles” to guide your online course creation.
Example Persona:
Name: Sarah
Age: 32
Role: Small business owner
Goal: Learn SEO basics to improve her online store
Pain Points: Doesn’t have time, gets overwhelmed with jargon
Now, build your course with Sarah in mind.
4. Analyze Course Feedback and Drop-Off Points
Already have a course running? Perfect.
Look at quiz results, video completion rates, and survey responses.
Where do people drop off?
What modules get the most “aha” moments or positive feedback?
Example: If 80% of students drop off in Module 3, it may be too dense or confusing—time to simplify or split it.
Source
5. Use Search and Analytics Tools
Use tools like:
Google Search Console – to see what people are searching before landing on your site.
AnswerThePublic or AlsoAsked – to see common questions around your course topic.
ChatGPT – Use AI tools to summarize online discussions from forums or feedback.
Tip: Search “What are people struggling with when learning [your topic]?” and feed those discussions into ChatGPT for insights.
Bonus Tip: Use the eLearning Content Opportunity Finder to uncover high-demand topics and create engaging, effective, and inclusive eLearning content strategies that cater to diverse learner populations while addressing technical challenges and fostering meaningful interactions between instructors and students. |
What’s Holding Your Learners Back? Best Practices to Remove eLearning Content Creation Strategy Roadblocks
After understanding your target learners, ensure your strategy is supported by the following best practices to maximize learner engagement, accessibility, and long-term success. Here are the best practices based on market research:
Build Trust
Challenges:
A lack of real connection often keeps potential learners from hitting “buy.” If your audience doesn’t feel seen, heard, or engaged, they’re more likely to scroll past your course—even if it’s exactly what they need.
Best Practices:
Use social media to open up real conversations—not just broadcast announcements.
Run polls, Q&As, or “this or that” posts to encourage participation
Go live to answer questions, break down a concept, or just chat casually
Use Stories or Reels to share behind-the-scenes moments or learner wins
Ask your audience what they’re struggling with and respond with tips or mini-lessons
Source
Overcome Technical Limitations
Challenges: Learners may experience slow internet connections, software bugs, or hardware incompatibility, which disrupts their learning flow and causes frustration or dropouts.
Source
Best Practices:
Design intuitive, mobile-friendly course interfaces.
Optimize media for fast loading and minimal buffering.
Offer offline access (PDFs, downloadable videos).
Ensure fast, reliable tech support for users.
Example:
Compress videos using tools like HandBrake to reduce file sizes without losing quality. Offer a "Low Bandwidth Mode" option on your course platform. Provide downloadable lesson transcripts and resources and integrate a chatbot or ticket-based support system for quick tech troubleshooting.
Enhance Learner Engagement and Motivation
Challenges: The lack of live interaction or real-time feedback often leads to learner isolation, boredom, and course abandonment.
Best Practices:
Define clear learning goals and progress milestones.
Include interactive elements like quizzes and discussions.
Use gamification (badges, points, streaks).
Encourage communication with instructors and peers.
Example:
Add progress bars and streak rewards using your LMS's gamification plugins (e.g., LearnDash’s BadgeOS). Insert quizzes at the end of each module to maintain engagement. Use tools like Zoom or Circle to host live Q&As and create a private student group for peer support.
Source
Ensure Content Quality and Relevance
Challenges: Outdated or irrelevant material lowers engagement and doesn't deliver meaningful value to learners.
Best Practices:
Review and update course content regularly.
Align with current industry trends and tools.
Involve SMEs in course creation and feedback.
Use case studies and real-world scenarios.
Example:
Set a quarterly reminder to audit your content and update any outdated info. Subscribe to industry newsletters to stay current. Involve guest experts in review sessions and gather feedback via surveys to improve lesson accuracy and relevance.
Personalize the Learning Experience
Challenges: Learners have different backgrounds, learning styles, and goals — a rigid course structure fails to accommodate them all.
Best Practices:
Use adaptive learning tools that tailor content.
Let learners choose topics or modules that interest them.
Assess learners at the start to identify knowledge gaps.
Example:
Create multiple learning tracks (beginner, intermediate, advanced) and allow learners to choose based on a quick intro quiz. Use tools like LearnDash Groups or MemberPress to unlock content progressively based on learner progress or interest.
Increase Interaction with Instructors
Challenges: Limited instructor access leads to missed learning opportunities and a lack of clarity when learners need help.
Best Practices:
Offer live sessions and office hours.
Use discussion boards or chat communities.
Provide detailed, constructive feedback.
Example:
Use Calendly to schedule weekly virtual office hours and integrate them into your LMS. Create a private Slack or Discord community for your students. After assignment submissions, offer personalized Loom video feedback to make it feel more direct and supportive.
Promote your Uniqueness
Challenges:
In a crowded market, it’s easy to get lost in the noise. If your course doesn’t have a unique hook or feel professional, people will scroll past it.
Best Practices:
Identify and promote your course’s unique benefits or teaching style
Invest in clean, branded course visuals and intuitive UX.
Use storytelling, interactive elements, and real-world applications.
Choose a niche and speak directly to a specific audience segment.
Example:
Instead of launching a general “Photography 101” course, Alex created “Street Photography for Solo Travelers,” with location-based assignments and raw, documentary-style visuals. His niche focus helped him get featured on photography blogs and drove consistent traffic from search engines.
SEO-Friendly Content
Challenges:
Even the best content can’t convert if no one sees it. Many creators struggle with low visibility, poor SEO, or weak marketing funnels.
Best Practices:
Write SEO-friendly content around topics your audience is searching for.
Create irresistible lead magnets (checklists, free mini-courses, templates).
Use opt-in funnels, retargeting ads, and strategic email sequences.
Partner with creators or communities to tap into new audiences.
Example:
Emily launched a course on digital organization but had no site traffic. She started a blog around “decluttering your digital life,” offered a free productivity planner, and appeared on two podcasts. In 8 weeks, her traffic tripled, and she grew her email list by 1,000+ subscribers. Use eLearning Content Opportunity Finder to find popular topics, tailor your course ideas, and align your content with what your learners need for starters.
Incorporating the 7 Smart Moves to Plan Your eLearning Content Creation Strategy That Works
Once you’ve identified your ideal learners and their pain points, use those insights to shape a content strategy that speaks directly to their needs. Start by applying the following 7 simple but powerful smart moves that are not only educational but also effective and engaging.
1. Start with a Clear, Simple Structure
A logical and consistent content flow keeps learners focused and makes the material easier to absorb. Start with an overview and clearly defined learning outcomes. Organize content into modules or units that build progressively.
✅ Action Tip: Begin with a short course overview and define what learners will gain. Use modules like chapters in a book—with mini goals and short quizzes along the way.
Example: Use sections like "Introduction → Key Concepts → Practice Quiz → Wrap-Up Recap" to keep learners focused and on track.
2. Know Your Why (and Theirs)
Without clear goals, content risks being unfocused — and learners disengage quickly. Identify the core objective of each course: What should learners know or do differently after completing it? Keep every piece of content aligned with this purpose — cut the fluff.
✅ Action Tip: Ask yourself: “What should my learners be able to do after this?” Then, reverse engineer the lesson to focus on that result.
Example: Instead of a vague goal like “Understand marketing basics,” use “Create a basic digital ad campaign by the end of the module.”
3. Make It Personal
Learners are more engaged when the content feels relevant to their roles, goals, or skill levels. Use learner personas to tailor content paths (e.g., beginner vs. advanced learners). Offer adaptive learning paths that change based on learner choices or quiz results. Incorporate real-life scenarios from the learner’s domain or industry.
✅ Action Tip: Create paths for different levels (e.g., Beginner vs. Pro), and use examples or case studies that reflect their industry.
Example: A sales course could include scenarios like “Pitching to a hesitant client” for beginners and “Handling objections in high-stakes B2B deals” for advanced learners.
4. Say It With Video (But Keep It Short)
Video is engaging, visually rich, and ideal for explaining complex topics in a more digestible way. Use short, focused videos (under 6 minutes) for microlearning. Add closed captions and transcripts to support different learning needs and improve accessibility.
✅ Action Tip: Keep videos under 6 minutes and include captions for accessibility. Break one big topic into a series of bite-sized clips.
Example: Instead of one 30-min lecture on UX design, break it into 5 quick videos like “What is UX?” → “User Research Basics” → “Wireframing 101.”
5. Go Mobile or Go Home
Today’s learners are mobile-first — accessibility on the go is non-negotiable. Use a mobile-responsive LMS or learning app. Break long lessons into bite-sized, mobile-friendly modules. Allow learners to download content for offline access.
Source
✅ Action Tip: Use mobile-friendly platforms and break content into bite-sized lessons that load fast and feel smooth on small screens.
Example: Offer downloadable PDFs, audio lessons, or offline quizzes they can complete on the go.
6. Make Your Learners the Hero
Learner-centric design leads to better understanding, retention, and satisfaction. Focus on solving real-world problems learners face, not just delivering information. Allow for active learning through practice exercises, simulations, or decision-based scenarios.
✅ Action Tip: Include interactive elements like scenarios, simulations, or choices that lead to different outcomes.
Example: In a leadership course, give learners a challenge: “What would you do if your team misses a deadline? Choose your response and see the consequences.”
7. Ask, Listen, and Continuously Improve
Continuous improvement keeps your content relevant, effective, and aligned with learner needs. Collect learner feedback through post-course surveys, quizzes, or pulse checks. Update content regularly to reflect new information, learner insights, or engagement trends.
✅ Action Tip: Add short feedback forms, polls, or end-of-module surveys. Look for common pain points and fix them quickly.
Example: If many learners say a quiz was confusing or too complicated, break it into smaller sections or offer hints next time.
Source
Final Thoughts: Keep It Real, Keep It Learner-First
Here’s the thing: Creating a great course isn’t about stuffing in as much info as possible or trying to sound super smart.
It’s about helping your learners get where they want to go without making it harder than it needs to be. When your content feels clear, your videos are short and helpful, and your layout actually makes sense on a phone—that’s when people stick around.
And honestly? You don’t need to be fancy. You just need to care about who you’re teaching and how they learn. Build something that feels useful and real, and your students will feel it. That’s what makes a course go from “meh” to memorable.
That’s where the eLearning Content Opportunity Finder can really help. It takes the guesswork out by showing you exactly what topics, keywords, and pain points your audience cares about—so you can create content they’re already out there looking for.
Many course creators fall into the trap of thinking “more is better”—that the more information you cram into your course, the more valuable it becomes. However, in reality, that approach often overwhelms learners. Your audience isn’t looking for a firehose of information—they’re looking for clarity, support, and a path they can actually follow.
Your learners are busy. Distracted. Maybe even a little intimidated.
If your course feels like a chore, they’re going to check out fast.
So, what keeps them engaged?
Its content feels like it was made just for them.
Content that speaks their language, gets their struggles, and leads them step-by-step toward something they actually care about.
And that’s the heart of effective eLearning content creation—crafting learning experiences that are purposeful, accessible, and built around real human needs.
To create that kind of experience, you’ve got to start by knowing your learners—really knowing them.
Who are they?
What’s frustrating them about learning right now?
What’s keeping them from making progress?
What would a meaningful win look like for them?
Complex learning paths, dense jargon, and endless lectures don’t build transformation—they build dropout rates.
But when your strategy is built around your learners—their needs, their pace, their goals—your content becomes more than educational.
Understand Who You're Creating Your eLearning Content Creation Strategy For
A content strategy that connects starts with understanding exactly who you’re building for. Here’s how:
1. Talk to Real People (Not Just Your Assumptions)
Run short interviews or surveys with your past or potential students.
Ask questions like:
What made you look for a course like this?
What’s been your biggest frustration while learning online?
What would success look like for you after taking this course?
Tool Tip: Use Google Forms, Typeform, or just a Zoom call to keep it simple.
Source
2. Explore Where They Hang Out
Look at Reddit, Facebook Groups, LinkedIn communities, or niche forums.
Search for threads like:
“Best way to learn [topic] online”
“Struggling with [skill/problem]”
Take note of the language they use, the problems they raise, and what solutions they’ve tried.
Source
3. Create Student Personas
Summarize your findings into a few “learner profiles” to guide your online course creation.
Example Persona:
Name: Sarah
Age: 32
Role: Small business owner
Goal: Learn SEO basics to improve her online store
Pain Points: Doesn’t have time, gets overwhelmed with jargon
Now, build your course with Sarah in mind.
4. Analyze Course Feedback and Drop-Off Points
Already have a course running? Perfect.
Look at quiz results, video completion rates, and survey responses.
Where do people drop off?
What modules get the most “aha” moments or positive feedback?
Example: If 80% of students drop off in Module 3, it may be too dense or confusing—time to simplify or split it.
Source
5. Use Search and Analytics Tools
Use tools like:
Google Search Console – to see what people are searching before landing on your site.
AnswerThePublic or AlsoAsked – to see common questions around your course topic.
ChatGPT – Use AI tools to summarize online discussions from forums or feedback.
Tip: Search “What are people struggling with when learning [your topic]?” and feed those discussions into ChatGPT for insights.
Bonus Tip: Use the eLearning Content Opportunity Finder to uncover high-demand topics and create engaging, effective, and inclusive eLearning content strategies that cater to diverse learner populations while addressing technical challenges and fostering meaningful interactions between instructors and students. |
What’s Holding Your Learners Back? Best Practices to Remove eLearning Content Creation Strategy Roadblocks
After understanding your target learners, ensure your strategy is supported by the following best practices to maximize learner engagement, accessibility, and long-term success. Here are the best practices based on market research:
Build Trust
Challenges:
A lack of real connection often keeps potential learners from hitting “buy.” If your audience doesn’t feel seen, heard, or engaged, they’re more likely to scroll past your course—even if it’s exactly what they need.
Best Practices:
Use social media to open up real conversations—not just broadcast announcements.
Run polls, Q&As, or “this or that” posts to encourage participation
Go live to answer questions, break down a concept, or just chat casually
Use Stories or Reels to share behind-the-scenes moments or learner wins
Ask your audience what they’re struggling with and respond with tips or mini-lessons
Source
Overcome Technical Limitations
Challenges: Learners may experience slow internet connections, software bugs, or hardware incompatibility, which disrupts their learning flow and causes frustration or dropouts.
Source
Best Practices:
Design intuitive, mobile-friendly course interfaces.
Optimize media for fast loading and minimal buffering.
Offer offline access (PDFs, downloadable videos).
Ensure fast, reliable tech support for users.
Example:
Compress videos using tools like HandBrake to reduce file sizes without losing quality. Offer a "Low Bandwidth Mode" option on your course platform. Provide downloadable lesson transcripts and resources and integrate a chatbot or ticket-based support system for quick tech troubleshooting.
Enhance Learner Engagement and Motivation
Challenges: The lack of live interaction or real-time feedback often leads to learner isolation, boredom, and course abandonment.
Best Practices:
Define clear learning goals and progress milestones.
Include interactive elements like quizzes and discussions.
Use gamification (badges, points, streaks).
Encourage communication with instructors and peers.
Example:
Add progress bars and streak rewards using your LMS's gamification plugins (e.g., LearnDash’s BadgeOS). Insert quizzes at the end of each module to maintain engagement. Use tools like Zoom or Circle to host live Q&As and create a private student group for peer support.
Source
Ensure Content Quality and Relevance
Challenges: Outdated or irrelevant material lowers engagement and doesn't deliver meaningful value to learners.
Best Practices:
Review and update course content regularly.
Align with current industry trends and tools.
Involve SMEs in course creation and feedback.
Use case studies and real-world scenarios.
Example:
Set a quarterly reminder to audit your content and update any outdated info. Subscribe to industry newsletters to stay current. Involve guest experts in review sessions and gather feedback via surveys to improve lesson accuracy and relevance.
Personalize the Learning Experience
Challenges: Learners have different backgrounds, learning styles, and goals — a rigid course structure fails to accommodate them all.
Best Practices:
Use adaptive learning tools that tailor content.
Let learners choose topics or modules that interest them.
Assess learners at the start to identify knowledge gaps.
Example:
Create multiple learning tracks (beginner, intermediate, advanced) and allow learners to choose based on a quick intro quiz. Use tools like LearnDash Groups or MemberPress to unlock content progressively based on learner progress or interest.
Increase Interaction with Instructors
Challenges: Limited instructor access leads to missed learning opportunities and a lack of clarity when learners need help.
Best Practices:
Offer live sessions and office hours.
Use discussion boards or chat communities.
Provide detailed, constructive feedback.
Example:
Use Calendly to schedule weekly virtual office hours and integrate them into your LMS. Create a private Slack or Discord community for your students. After assignment submissions, offer personalized Loom video feedback to make it feel more direct and supportive.
Promote your Uniqueness
Challenges:
In a crowded market, it’s easy to get lost in the noise. If your course doesn’t have a unique hook or feel professional, people will scroll past it.
Best Practices:
Identify and promote your course’s unique benefits or teaching style
Invest in clean, branded course visuals and intuitive UX.
Use storytelling, interactive elements, and real-world applications.
Choose a niche and speak directly to a specific audience segment.
Example:
Instead of launching a general “Photography 101” course, Alex created “Street Photography for Solo Travelers,” with location-based assignments and raw, documentary-style visuals. His niche focus helped him get featured on photography blogs and drove consistent traffic from search engines.
SEO-Friendly Content
Challenges:
Even the best content can’t convert if no one sees it. Many creators struggle with low visibility, poor SEO, or weak marketing funnels.
Best Practices:
Write SEO-friendly content around topics your audience is searching for.
Create irresistible lead magnets (checklists, free mini-courses, templates).
Use opt-in funnels, retargeting ads, and strategic email sequences.
Partner with creators or communities to tap into new audiences.
Example:
Emily launched a course on digital organization but had no site traffic. She started a blog around “decluttering your digital life,” offered a free productivity planner, and appeared on two podcasts. In 8 weeks, her traffic tripled, and she grew her email list by 1,000+ subscribers. Use eLearning Content Opportunity Finder to find popular topics, tailor your course ideas, and align your content with what your learners need for starters.
Incorporating the 7 Smart Moves to Plan Your eLearning Content Creation Strategy That Works
Once you’ve identified your ideal learners and their pain points, use those insights to shape a content strategy that speaks directly to their needs. Start by applying the following 7 simple but powerful smart moves that are not only educational but also effective and engaging.
1. Start with a Clear, Simple Structure
A logical and consistent content flow keeps learners focused and makes the material easier to absorb. Start with an overview and clearly defined learning outcomes. Organize content into modules or units that build progressively.
✅ Action Tip: Begin with a short course overview and define what learners will gain. Use modules like chapters in a book—with mini goals and short quizzes along the way.
Example: Use sections like "Introduction → Key Concepts → Practice Quiz → Wrap-Up Recap" to keep learners focused and on track.
2. Know Your Why (and Theirs)
Without clear goals, content risks being unfocused — and learners disengage quickly. Identify the core objective of each course: What should learners know or do differently after completing it? Keep every piece of content aligned with this purpose — cut the fluff.
✅ Action Tip: Ask yourself: “What should my learners be able to do after this?” Then, reverse engineer the lesson to focus on that result.
Example: Instead of a vague goal like “Understand marketing basics,” use “Create a basic digital ad campaign by the end of the module.”
3. Make It Personal
Learners are more engaged when the content feels relevant to their roles, goals, or skill levels. Use learner personas to tailor content paths (e.g., beginner vs. advanced learners). Offer adaptive learning paths that change based on learner choices or quiz results. Incorporate real-life scenarios from the learner’s domain or industry.
✅ Action Tip: Create paths for different levels (e.g., Beginner vs. Pro), and use examples or case studies that reflect their industry.
Example: A sales course could include scenarios like “Pitching to a hesitant client” for beginners and “Handling objections in high-stakes B2B deals” for advanced learners.
4. Say It With Video (But Keep It Short)
Video is engaging, visually rich, and ideal for explaining complex topics in a more digestible way. Use short, focused videos (under 6 minutes) for microlearning. Add closed captions and transcripts to support different learning needs and improve accessibility.
✅ Action Tip: Keep videos under 6 minutes and include captions for accessibility. Break one big topic into a series of bite-sized clips.
Example: Instead of one 30-min lecture on UX design, break it into 5 quick videos like “What is UX?” → “User Research Basics” → “Wireframing 101.”
5. Go Mobile or Go Home
Today’s learners are mobile-first — accessibility on the go is non-negotiable. Use a mobile-responsive LMS or learning app. Break long lessons into bite-sized, mobile-friendly modules. Allow learners to download content for offline access.
Source
✅ Action Tip: Use mobile-friendly platforms and break content into bite-sized lessons that load fast and feel smooth on small screens.
Example: Offer downloadable PDFs, audio lessons, or offline quizzes they can complete on the go.
6. Make Your Learners the Hero
Learner-centric design leads to better understanding, retention, and satisfaction. Focus on solving real-world problems learners face, not just delivering information. Allow for active learning through practice exercises, simulations, or decision-based scenarios.
✅ Action Tip: Include interactive elements like scenarios, simulations, or choices that lead to different outcomes.
Example: In a leadership course, give learners a challenge: “What would you do if your team misses a deadline? Choose your response and see the consequences.”
7. Ask, Listen, and Continuously Improve
Continuous improvement keeps your content relevant, effective, and aligned with learner needs. Collect learner feedback through post-course surveys, quizzes, or pulse checks. Update content regularly to reflect new information, learner insights, or engagement trends.
✅ Action Tip: Add short feedback forms, polls, or end-of-module surveys. Look for common pain points and fix them quickly.
Example: If many learners say a quiz was confusing or too complicated, break it into smaller sections or offer hints next time.
Source
Final Thoughts: Keep It Real, Keep It Learner-First
Here’s the thing: Creating a great course isn’t about stuffing in as much info as possible or trying to sound super smart.
It’s about helping your learners get where they want to go without making it harder than it needs to be. When your content feels clear, your videos are short and helpful, and your layout actually makes sense on a phone—that’s when people stick around.
And honestly? You don’t need to be fancy. You just need to care about who you’re teaching and how they learn. Build something that feels useful and real, and your students will feel it. That’s what makes a course go from “meh” to memorable.
That’s where the eLearning Content Opportunity Finder can really help. It takes the guesswork out by showing you exactly what topics, keywords, and pain points your audience cares about—so you can create content they’re already out there looking for.
Many course creators fall into the trap of thinking “more is better”—that the more information you cram into your course, the more valuable it becomes. However, in reality, that approach often overwhelms learners. Your audience isn’t looking for a firehose of information—they’re looking for clarity, support, and a path they can actually follow.
Your learners are busy. Distracted. Maybe even a little intimidated.
If your course feels like a chore, they’re going to check out fast.
So, what keeps them engaged?
Its content feels like it was made just for them.
Content that speaks their language, gets their struggles, and leads them step-by-step toward something they actually care about.
And that’s the heart of effective eLearning content creation—crafting learning experiences that are purposeful, accessible, and built around real human needs.
To create that kind of experience, you’ve got to start by knowing your learners—really knowing them.
Who are they?
What’s frustrating them about learning right now?
What’s keeping them from making progress?
What would a meaningful win look like for them?
Complex learning paths, dense jargon, and endless lectures don’t build transformation—they build dropout rates.
But when your strategy is built around your learners—their needs, their pace, their goals—your content becomes more than educational.
Understand Who You're Creating Your eLearning Content Creation Strategy For
A content strategy that connects starts with understanding exactly who you’re building for. Here’s how:
1. Talk to Real People (Not Just Your Assumptions)
Run short interviews or surveys with your past or potential students.
Ask questions like:
What made you look for a course like this?
What’s been your biggest frustration while learning online?
What would success look like for you after taking this course?
Tool Tip: Use Google Forms, Typeform, or just a Zoom call to keep it simple.
Source
2. Explore Where They Hang Out
Look at Reddit, Facebook Groups, LinkedIn communities, or niche forums.
Search for threads like:
“Best way to learn [topic] online”
“Struggling with [skill/problem]”
Take note of the language they use, the problems they raise, and what solutions they’ve tried.
Source
3. Create Student Personas
Summarize your findings into a few “learner profiles” to guide your online course creation.
Example Persona:
Name: Sarah
Age: 32
Role: Small business owner
Goal: Learn SEO basics to improve her online store
Pain Points: Doesn’t have time, gets overwhelmed with jargon
Now, build your course with Sarah in mind.
4. Analyze Course Feedback and Drop-Off Points
Already have a course running? Perfect.
Look at quiz results, video completion rates, and survey responses.
Where do people drop off?
What modules get the most “aha” moments or positive feedback?
Example: If 80% of students drop off in Module 3, it may be too dense or confusing—time to simplify or split it.
Source
5. Use Search and Analytics Tools
Use tools like:
Google Search Console – to see what people are searching before landing on your site.
AnswerThePublic or AlsoAsked – to see common questions around your course topic.
ChatGPT – Use AI tools to summarize online discussions from forums or feedback.
Tip: Search “What are people struggling with when learning [your topic]?” and feed those discussions into ChatGPT for insights.
Bonus Tip: Use the eLearning Content Opportunity Finder to uncover high-demand topics and create engaging, effective, and inclusive eLearning content strategies that cater to diverse learner populations while addressing technical challenges and fostering meaningful interactions between instructors and students. |
What’s Holding Your Learners Back? Best Practices to Remove eLearning Content Creation Strategy Roadblocks
After understanding your target learners, ensure your strategy is supported by the following best practices to maximize learner engagement, accessibility, and long-term success. Here are the best practices based on market research:
Build Trust
Challenges:
A lack of real connection often keeps potential learners from hitting “buy.” If your audience doesn’t feel seen, heard, or engaged, they’re more likely to scroll past your course—even if it’s exactly what they need.
Best Practices:
Use social media to open up real conversations—not just broadcast announcements.
Run polls, Q&As, or “this or that” posts to encourage participation
Go live to answer questions, break down a concept, or just chat casually
Use Stories or Reels to share behind-the-scenes moments or learner wins
Ask your audience what they’re struggling with and respond with tips or mini-lessons
Source
Overcome Technical Limitations
Challenges: Learners may experience slow internet connections, software bugs, or hardware incompatibility, which disrupts their learning flow and causes frustration or dropouts.
Source
Best Practices:
Design intuitive, mobile-friendly course interfaces.
Optimize media for fast loading and minimal buffering.
Offer offline access (PDFs, downloadable videos).
Ensure fast, reliable tech support for users.
Example:
Compress videos using tools like HandBrake to reduce file sizes without losing quality. Offer a "Low Bandwidth Mode" option on your course platform. Provide downloadable lesson transcripts and resources and integrate a chatbot or ticket-based support system for quick tech troubleshooting.
Enhance Learner Engagement and Motivation
Challenges: The lack of live interaction or real-time feedback often leads to learner isolation, boredom, and course abandonment.
Best Practices:
Define clear learning goals and progress milestones.
Include interactive elements like quizzes and discussions.
Use gamification (badges, points, streaks).
Encourage communication with instructors and peers.
Example:
Add progress bars and streak rewards using your LMS's gamification plugins (e.g., LearnDash’s BadgeOS). Insert quizzes at the end of each module to maintain engagement. Use tools like Zoom or Circle to host live Q&As and create a private student group for peer support.
Source
Ensure Content Quality and Relevance
Challenges: Outdated or irrelevant material lowers engagement and doesn't deliver meaningful value to learners.
Best Practices:
Review and update course content regularly.
Align with current industry trends and tools.
Involve SMEs in course creation and feedback.
Use case studies and real-world scenarios.
Example:
Set a quarterly reminder to audit your content and update any outdated info. Subscribe to industry newsletters to stay current. Involve guest experts in review sessions and gather feedback via surveys to improve lesson accuracy and relevance.
Personalize the Learning Experience
Challenges: Learners have different backgrounds, learning styles, and goals — a rigid course structure fails to accommodate them all.
Best Practices:
Use adaptive learning tools that tailor content.
Let learners choose topics or modules that interest them.
Assess learners at the start to identify knowledge gaps.
Example:
Create multiple learning tracks (beginner, intermediate, advanced) and allow learners to choose based on a quick intro quiz. Use tools like LearnDash Groups or MemberPress to unlock content progressively based on learner progress or interest.
Increase Interaction with Instructors
Challenges: Limited instructor access leads to missed learning opportunities and a lack of clarity when learners need help.
Best Practices:
Offer live sessions and office hours.
Use discussion boards or chat communities.
Provide detailed, constructive feedback.
Example:
Use Calendly to schedule weekly virtual office hours and integrate them into your LMS. Create a private Slack or Discord community for your students. After assignment submissions, offer personalized Loom video feedback to make it feel more direct and supportive.
Promote your Uniqueness
Challenges:
In a crowded market, it’s easy to get lost in the noise. If your course doesn’t have a unique hook or feel professional, people will scroll past it.
Best Practices:
Identify and promote your course’s unique benefits or teaching style
Invest in clean, branded course visuals and intuitive UX.
Use storytelling, interactive elements, and real-world applications.
Choose a niche and speak directly to a specific audience segment.
Example:
Instead of launching a general “Photography 101” course, Alex created “Street Photography for Solo Travelers,” with location-based assignments and raw, documentary-style visuals. His niche focus helped him get featured on photography blogs and drove consistent traffic from search engines.
SEO-Friendly Content
Challenges:
Even the best content can’t convert if no one sees it. Many creators struggle with low visibility, poor SEO, or weak marketing funnels.
Best Practices:
Write SEO-friendly content around topics your audience is searching for.
Create irresistible lead magnets (checklists, free mini-courses, templates).
Use opt-in funnels, retargeting ads, and strategic email sequences.
Partner with creators or communities to tap into new audiences.
Example:
Emily launched a course on digital organization but had no site traffic. She started a blog around “decluttering your digital life,” offered a free productivity planner, and appeared on two podcasts. In 8 weeks, her traffic tripled, and she grew her email list by 1,000+ subscribers. Use eLearning Content Opportunity Finder to find popular topics, tailor your course ideas, and align your content with what your learners need for starters.
Incorporating the 7 Smart Moves to Plan Your eLearning Content Creation Strategy That Works
Once you’ve identified your ideal learners and their pain points, use those insights to shape a content strategy that speaks directly to their needs. Start by applying the following 7 simple but powerful smart moves that are not only educational but also effective and engaging.
1. Start with a Clear, Simple Structure
A logical and consistent content flow keeps learners focused and makes the material easier to absorb. Start with an overview and clearly defined learning outcomes. Organize content into modules or units that build progressively.
✅ Action Tip: Begin with a short course overview and define what learners will gain. Use modules like chapters in a book—with mini goals and short quizzes along the way.
Example: Use sections like "Introduction → Key Concepts → Practice Quiz → Wrap-Up Recap" to keep learners focused and on track.
2. Know Your Why (and Theirs)
Without clear goals, content risks being unfocused — and learners disengage quickly. Identify the core objective of each course: What should learners know or do differently after completing it? Keep every piece of content aligned with this purpose — cut the fluff.
✅ Action Tip: Ask yourself: “What should my learners be able to do after this?” Then, reverse engineer the lesson to focus on that result.
Example: Instead of a vague goal like “Understand marketing basics,” use “Create a basic digital ad campaign by the end of the module.”
3. Make It Personal
Learners are more engaged when the content feels relevant to their roles, goals, or skill levels. Use learner personas to tailor content paths (e.g., beginner vs. advanced learners). Offer adaptive learning paths that change based on learner choices or quiz results. Incorporate real-life scenarios from the learner’s domain or industry.
✅ Action Tip: Create paths for different levels (e.g., Beginner vs. Pro), and use examples or case studies that reflect their industry.
Example: A sales course could include scenarios like “Pitching to a hesitant client” for beginners and “Handling objections in high-stakes B2B deals” for advanced learners.
4. Say It With Video (But Keep It Short)
Video is engaging, visually rich, and ideal for explaining complex topics in a more digestible way. Use short, focused videos (under 6 minutes) for microlearning. Add closed captions and transcripts to support different learning needs and improve accessibility.
✅ Action Tip: Keep videos under 6 minutes and include captions for accessibility. Break one big topic into a series of bite-sized clips.
Example: Instead of one 30-min lecture on UX design, break it into 5 quick videos like “What is UX?” → “User Research Basics” → “Wireframing 101.”
5. Go Mobile or Go Home
Today’s learners are mobile-first — accessibility on the go is non-negotiable. Use a mobile-responsive LMS or learning app. Break long lessons into bite-sized, mobile-friendly modules. Allow learners to download content for offline access.
Source
✅ Action Tip: Use mobile-friendly platforms and break content into bite-sized lessons that load fast and feel smooth on small screens.
Example: Offer downloadable PDFs, audio lessons, or offline quizzes they can complete on the go.
6. Make Your Learners the Hero
Learner-centric design leads to better understanding, retention, and satisfaction. Focus on solving real-world problems learners face, not just delivering information. Allow for active learning through practice exercises, simulations, or decision-based scenarios.
✅ Action Tip: Include interactive elements like scenarios, simulations, or choices that lead to different outcomes.
Example: In a leadership course, give learners a challenge: “What would you do if your team misses a deadline? Choose your response and see the consequences.”
7. Ask, Listen, and Continuously Improve
Continuous improvement keeps your content relevant, effective, and aligned with learner needs. Collect learner feedback through post-course surveys, quizzes, or pulse checks. Update content regularly to reflect new information, learner insights, or engagement trends.
✅ Action Tip: Add short feedback forms, polls, or end-of-module surveys. Look for common pain points and fix them quickly.
Example: If many learners say a quiz was confusing or too complicated, break it into smaller sections or offer hints next time.
Source
Final Thoughts: Keep It Real, Keep It Learner-First
Here’s the thing: Creating a great course isn’t about stuffing in as much info as possible or trying to sound super smart.
It’s about helping your learners get where they want to go without making it harder than it needs to be. When your content feels clear, your videos are short and helpful, and your layout actually makes sense on a phone—that’s when people stick around.
And honestly? You don’t need to be fancy. You just need to care about who you’re teaching and how they learn. Build something that feels useful and real, and your students will feel it. That’s what makes a course go from “meh” to memorable.
That’s where the eLearning Content Opportunity Finder can really help. It takes the guesswork out by showing you exactly what topics, keywords, and pain points your audience cares about—so you can create content they’re already out there looking for.