VisualSparks’ Post

Take all advice on LinkedIn with a pinch of salt. I often post on here with hints, tips and ideas for better learning design and instructional design. But remember, every thing I'm talking about is contextual. Take my Restful Refreshments project... When developing learning, 'decorative' images are usually a big no no. I see plenty of other posts on here advising others to only use images if they have a direct link to the learning, which I do agree with. But let's be real, this project is all decorative images. So does that make me a hypocrite? No. Because in this instance the decorative imagery is a key component of the overall visual design of the course. Now this aesthetic may not be everyone's cup of tea (see what I did there?), but if I had taken this advice at face value, then it would mean stripping this course of all its illustrations. Heck this Restful Refreshments course ignores quite a few of the traditional visual or learning design principles. I mean it is a bit like your nan's living room, it's cluttered and overly decorative, but it kind of works right? What I'm saying is that it doesn't have to be an all or nothing approach. You can pick and choose what feels right for you and the project you are working on. (not including accessibility of course) So before you go and delete all your images, re-configure your text, or change your UI, just pause and ask yourself if this would make your learning better, or whether you're just doing it because someone else has said to. Use theories, models and principles as your guide, but always consider the context. #learningdesign #visualdesign #elearning #digitallearning

Your e-learning design can either be a memory or a masterpiece👇 Let's turn it into the latter. 𝟭. 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆𝘁𝗲𝗹𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴: Stories not only ignite interest but also boost information retention. 𝟮. 𝗚𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: Incorporate quizzes, puzzles, and rewards. 𝟯. 𝗦𝗶𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗶𝘁𝘆: Less is often more. Use clean layouts, simple instructions, and intuitive navigation. 𝟰. 𝗩𝗶𝘀𝘂𝗮𝗹𝘀: Engage the senses. Use high-quality images, infographics, and videos. 𝟱. 𝗙𝗲𝗲𝗱𝗯𝗮𝗰𝗸: Encourage interactive responses. Facilitate discussion forums, surveys, or one-on-one feedback sessions. Remember, the goal isn't just to inform, but to inspire, engage, and ignite curiosity. To do so, you need the right tool. And that's where I come in place. What's your tip for creating masterpieces? Share with the rest of Instructional Designers. Sharing is caring! ------- 🆘 Can I help you? Yes. Link on my profile. ♻️Share to help others discover this. 👍React if you found it interesting. 🚩Save this post to find it later. #elearning #elearningdevelopment #learningtechnologies #learninganddevelopment #FLOWSPARKS

5 Ways to Look Like an E-Learning Design Pro (Even If You’re Not!) Another good article for those getting started in E-Learning. Using templates can help you get started and teach you good design. For example, the Fonts you use do matter, it is OK to have white space, use a limited color palette, and apply the same artistic treatment to all images.

Accessibility is a hot topic in the learning space. In his latest Innovative Learning Group blog, Graphic Designer Zach Swisher gives some tips on how to do it well. https://lnkd.in/efzwQKPS

You will not learn designing watching designing courses! Let me explain why. Watching courses is a great way to understand designing But until you focus on the application part, nothing is going to work Recently, I was learning Photoshop and Illustrator through a course But due to time shortage, all I was doing was watching videos It made me feel like I knew how to use Photoshop But later, when I started creating a design, I was blank That's when I realized nothing sticks until you practice If you want to improve your design skills, watch videos but, most importantly, apply them practically I thought learning design needed a set route But I was completely wrong It's a process of continuous learning Every day, you'll learn something new and still feel there's more to grasp It's easy yet complicated to learn and grow The poster shows the before and after: how I used to think learning design was straightforward But now I see there's so much to learn and explore Every step forward opens up many new directions But I'm happy because I never feel like I've done everything There's always a zeal to move and learn more Let's keep learning and growing together! What design skills are you working on? Share your experiences #DesignJourney #ContinuousLearning #Photoshop #Illustrator #CreativeGrowth #NeverStopLearning #DesignCommunity #KeepGrowing #canva #graphicdesigning #creativity

Here are the most common challenges in learning Graphic Design- 1. Creative Block: Struggling to come up with fresh ideas can slow down the learning process. 2. Overwhelmed by Tools: With so many design software options, it’s easy to feel lost on where to start. 3. Imposter Syndrome: Doubting your skills and comparing yourself to more experienced designers. 4. Lack of Feedback: Without constructive criticism, it's hard to gauge progress or identify areas for improvement. 5. Mastering the Fundamentals: Skipping basics like color theory, typography, and composition can hinder overall growth. 6. Staying Consistent: Balancing practice with other responsibilities makes consistent learning a challenge. 7. Understanding Client Needs: Learning to interpret and deliver on client expectations can be tricky at first. Stay patient, keep practicing, and remember every challenge is a step towards mastery! Feel free to adjust or add anything to suit your style! 🚀

Decoding Color Contrast: 3 Tips for Readable Learning Materials! Creating accessible and engaging learning materials is key! Here are 3 color contrast tips to ensure visual clarity: 1. Keep it simple: Black text on a white background remains the champion of readability. Simple, effective, and accessible! 2. Palette Power: Feeling overwhelmed? Utilize color palettes! Many design tools offer pre-built palettes with guaranteed high contrast. Easy and reliable! 3. Hot & Cold Harmony: Want a bolder look? Play with warm and cool color combinations. Think fiery yellow text on a dark blue background for a visually striking contrast. ❄️ Remember: Accessibility is key! #ColorContrast #InclusiveDesign #InclusiveEducation Want more tips on creating stellar learning materials? Follow me for future insights!

If you want to strengthen your ability to make sense of complex information - why not try Sketchnoting? I am running one of my online introduction to Sketchnoting workshops on Thursday 27 June between 1 and 4.15pm (BST) and then again on Thursday 26 September at the same times. This is a practical introduction to how you can use Sketchnoting, with lots of hands on practice of drawing to enable you to get started. It is aimed at people who may not have drawn since they were a child and provides lots of support and encouragement. By the end of the session, you will have produced your first Sketchnote. If you would like to communicate using visuals, find different ways to reflect, develop your sense-making skills or create memorable notes, why not give Sketchnoting a go? The sessions are kept small so that it is easy to participate. Previous participants have found the sessions relaxing and fun and have found Sketchnoting to be a valuable skill. Do get in touch if you have questions. For more details and booking: https://bit.ly/3WGMq8R #Sketchnotes #Sketchnoting #VisualThinking #Doodling #LearningToLearn #Creativity #PersonalEffectiveness

How to train your designer 🐉

Happy to announce that I have completed the basic course in Udemy on - Introduction To Graphic Design. Remember, at times it doesn't matter how advanced your knowledge or resources are. Strengthening your fundamentals often provides you with greater power and a more solid foundation of understanding. So, Firstly make your Fundamentals strong and then move for the advance ones.