You’ve likely noticed that some online courses increase engagement more than others. You might have simply watched video lectures in one course, while in another, you were actively participating in simulations or games. That’s because not all online learning activities are created equal. Learning designers talk about the “hierarchy of interactivity” that can make a big difference in how well we learn and retain information. Let’s break down these levels from the simplest to the most complex.
1. Passive Activity
This is the most basic level of engagement. Think of it as sitting back and consuming content without exerting much effort. You might be reading an eBook, watching lecture videos, or listening to a podcast. It’s the simplest way to learn, but let’s be honest: this is where our attention starts to wane the fastest—usually around the three-minute mark. While it’s a comfortable way to get introduced to a topic, it doesn’t demand much from learners.
2. Limited Interactivity
Next, we kick it up a notch. The second level involves more from you, the learner, such as responding to on-screen prompts or answering multiple-choice questions during a video. These small interactions help keep your mind engaged a little longer than just passive viewing, gently nudging you to keep your mind fully engaged.
3. Moderate Interactivity
Now, we’re getting into more engaging territory. This level requires you to analyze information and often gives you immediate feedback on your actions. You could be matching terms with their definitions, dragging items to categorize or put them in proper sequence, or completing timed challenges. These activities are more demanding yet more rewarding, as they help extend your engagement beyond the basics and deepen your understanding.
4. Full Interactivity
At this level decisions have a major impact. The learning path might branch in a different direction based on your decisions, much like choosing your own adventure in a video game. You could be participating in scenario-based learning, where you play a role in a simulated environment, or interact in real-time with instructors or other students. These types of deep interactions can extend engagement by hours! When the experience is dynamic and memorable, time passes very quickly.
5. Immersive Interactivity
Finally, we reached the peak of the engagement hierarchy. This level uses advanced technology like VR headsets and interactive video projection booths to create engrossing, lifelike experiences. Whether you’re flying a fighter jet in a combat simulator, or practicing your swing in an indoor golf practice booth, these tools make learning incredibly vivid and interactive. It’s the closest you can get to the real thing, which can be tremendously effective at sustaining attention and enhancing learning.
Conclusion
The more we include complex and frequent interactions, the more involved learners get, which improves participation and learning results.
It’s exciting to see how far online learning has come, and even more thrilling to think about where it might go next. If you’ve had experience creating activities for learners, or if you have thoughts on how these methods might be improved, let’s get a conversation started. We are passionate about creating excellent learning templates and technologies and love to listen about the successes and challenges of others.
Community engagement is one of the most powerful ways to learn. We look forward to learning your thoughts and ideas!