The power of audio in mlearning is something that we often underestimate. A lot had been said about how visual we have become because of the digital era. We are easily stimulated, engaged, motivated and encouraged by what we see. It has something to do with how our minds are more inclined to receive images than text.
However, there is an untapped power in the auditory element of in any learning material. Videos become powerful learning tools because of both visual and auditory stimulants. If you are giving much thought about the visuals element of a course, you have to think about your audio choices as well.
The audio in mobile learning is more crucial because of the short attention span that learners usually have. While it is meant to be short because it caters to on-the-go or as-needed learning requirements, the learning experience can be heightened by a great audio element.
When planning the audio of your mlearning course, it is important to follow these 5 rules to make it successful.
Use the appropriate audio equipment.
This will depend on the type of audio that you will use. If you plan on recording a narrative, you should have a good quality microphone, recording software and an editing tool that will help produce a good narration for the course. Sometimes, outsourcing this requirement proves to be more cost-efficient. Think about what you need and the role of the audio in your course. If it is crucial to delivering the course content, then you should invest in it. Sometimes, this is the faster and more economical route to take.
Keep the narration conversational.
If you will use a narration in the video or the slides that you will use in the course, make sure that the script will be conversational. This will help make it relatable. It is no fun to listen to a monotonous narrator. Make it light, engaging and very conversational.
Promote immersion through the background music.
This music is meant to support whatever the learner is trying to study. If this music is too loud, it might outshine the content of the lesson and be a distraction. Make sure you choose the right music that will help immerse the learner in the lesson. It should evoke the right emotion so the retention rate can increase. Just make sure it is aligned to the subject matter so it can help you meet your elearning goals.
Discuss graphics through the audio.
When you have graphics, it can be discussed thoroughly with an audio narrative. This can heighten the retention and help explain complicated concepts in the course. When combined with the right images like charts, tables, or infographics, the audio element can explain even the most complex of ideas.
Select sound effects that are royalty free.
Royalty refers to the payment that you will make every time you use something. This is why you have to choose royalty free music. That way, you can use it for as long as possible in your mlearning course and it will not be compromised while it is being used. Make sure you give the right attributes for everything that you will use in the course – to avoid problems in the future.
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