Despite the utility of multimedia in eLearning, images and even videos can only go so far: the core source of information remains text. Accordingly, a basic knowledge of typography is a must for any eLearning designer. Good typography enhances readability, encourages information processing, creates a visual hierarchy, and even engages readers' emotions. Here is a 7-step guide to making your course more effective—with typography in mind.
For eLearning screens, sans-serif fonts are almost always the best bet, as they are the most easily legible. Verdana is a traditional choice, as it was designed specifically to display well on computers.
3. Experiment with font size.
The standard size for e-text reading is 12-pt font; certainly, for eLearning never go below 10. However, on tablets and phones 14- and even 16-pt font has become a popular default. Think about your target audience, what devices they use and how acute their vision is.
Whichever base size you choose, relative font size can be used to create natural hierarchy and structure. Larger words are often used for headings, titles, or terms of importance, as they draw the eye.
Note: Dominant headlines, especially when placed in the upper left corner, typically draw the eyes first.
4. Be consistent.
Overall continuity in design helps learners know what to expect and how to find information easily throughout the course, as they only have to get used to one structure and can then focus on the content. Keep text location consistent from screen to screen, above all, and use similar formatting. If you use bullets, use them the same every time. Always place headings and subheadings in the same place. This will allow for maximum readability, as inconsistency can confuse learners.
The number of fonts you use is an important consideration too. While it’s okay to work with just one font, it can make the course stale. Use no more than one or two fonts, three at most. They create hierarchy and interest but can easily be overdone.
For example, choose a combination of fonts that complement each other: Helvetica Neue and Garamond (Here are other 20 perfect font pairings). This will enable you to have some variety and visual contrast without becoming too much.
5. Let typography guide learners.
As an eLearning designer, the important thing is to create an obvious hierarchy, and typography is an effective tool to use in visual hierarchy.
To help readers focus, keep your information sorted according to natural reading patterns. Learners usually enter through a visual element, such as a heading or use of color. From there, the most important information should be at the top left, with other critical content also near the top. With the right font, font size, spacing and color, you create a visual hierarchy that assists the visual walk-through.
6. Use spacing carefully.
The body of a text should occupy 25-40% of the screen, with line spacing in proportion to the text size. The key thing to avoid is a dense "brick" of text, which loses the eye quickly. Resist the urge to adjust margins to fit in more text; if you can't make it more concise, pick a more condensed typeface or go down a font size. A small font is easier to read than a cramped one.
White space is key in organizing your screen and maintaining flow. Without it, content takes longer to read and is more frustrating, as readers must first analyze the page visually to distinguish one element from the next. Keep a solid space barrier around your words to prevent the eye from wandering in the wrong direction.
Studies, in fact found a 20% increase in comprehension due to effective use of whitespace. So make sure an ample amount of space surrounds the text.
7. Create contrast.
Don't let your screen look scattered or overwhelming! Set up contrasts to manage learners' focus, between different fonts or between text and empty space.
Learners naturally scan from point to point rather than reading line by line. In order to make this work for you, use typographic contrast to create emphasis on certain text. Not only does this enhance the visual appearance, but it also directs the learner's attention to the important content. Whether using size, color, spacing, or shape, remember that one appearance should be used for "ordinary" content, and one for critical elements. Use the second one sparingly, lest it lost impact.
Don't be afraid to experiment, but at the same time, never sacrifice legibility to aesthetic appeal. Get the balance right, and your screen will be clear and appealing, neither boring nor illegible.
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