It happened again the other day. Someone trying to showcase an engaging self-paced elearning ”course” that used a page-turning, text-heavy, click-next approach.  As I readied to launch into  the definition of engagement and potential learning impact of a “click-through” approach, I paused. Lightening-quick memories of past design consulting challenges flashed through my head: Discussions of me with SMEs and leaders influencing the use of more engaging approaches etc. I thought about Al Gore’s new ebook, “Our Choice” or Flipboard on my ipad and I had a moment of clarity. I said: “What a great ebook.”

Al Gore’s Our Choice from Push Pop Press on Vimeo.

If your client wants a flip-by-page, text-heavy, picture-spattered interface to convey information. So be it. Call it what it is. Explain it’s pro’s and con’s related to potential learning and performance impact, then move on. If you still feel strongly about it’s potential value, calling it an ebook will help you make a case for more engagement without having to go into any rant.

Full disclosure? I actually think flip-turning ebooks/digital communications have a value-added use within the wide array of possible corporate learning solutions. Particularly if the interface design allows for searching, note-taking and sharing, and graphics and content are compelling. Final thought. Depending on content and business goal, perhaps there’s an opportunity to suggest how the interface of your client’s ebook or digital communications can be enhanced vs. trying to rework the content itself?

What do you think?