Article Authored By: Emma Thompson (@Emma.T.93)
This course is designed to demonstrate the importance of intentionally designed homepages, visual aesthetics, and interactivity that enhance learning retention.
Who is the course for?
This course is designed for anyone interested in better understanding how to create an impactful course in Brightspace – whether you're just starting to build courses or reviewing courses you have already built. No technical knowledge is required.
Roles that might benefit from accessing this article and the course include:
- Office managers
- Learning and development managers
- Training managers
- Talent development managers
- Organizational development managers
- Technical Account Managers
- Customer Service Managers
Why was this course created?
A common question when speaking about course design is, “What does a good course look
like?” Whether you are just beginning to develop content in Brightspace or have been leveraging the platform for some time, there are a few key elements that contribute to a brilliant course. An effective online learning experience is more than just uploading materials—it’s about intentional design, learner engagement, and creating a seamless learning journey.
Setting the Stage: The Value of an Intentionally Designed Homepage
The course homepage* (must be logged into Community to access) serves as the introduction to an online course. A well-structured homepage immediately informs learners where they are, what they need to do, and how to navigate the course. It sets the tone for the learning experience, conveying credibility and organization from the outset.
A thoughtfully designed homepage can include:
- Clear progress indicators – Helping learners track their journey enhances motivation and accountability.
- Announcements and updates – Providing timely information fosters a sense of connection and ensures learners remain engaged.
- Community-building elements – Integrating Activity Feeds or collaborative spaces encourages interaction and peer learning.
An intuitive, visually appealing homepage can dramatically improve the learner’s experience by reducing confusion and ensuring seamless navigation.
Creating a Cohesive Learning Experience: The Role of Branding and
Visual Design
Beyond functionality, a course's visual aesthetic and branding plays a crucial role in engagement and motivation. A visually cohesive course helps learners connect with the material and reinforces the organization’s identity.
Key benefits of incorporating branding and visual design principles include some of the following benefits.
- Enhanced engagement and motivation: A polished, professional-looking course creates a more immersive and enjoyable experience.
- Strengthened brand identity: Learners remember where they acquired knowledge, making them more likely to return for further learning opportunities.
- Reduced cognitive load: A clean and organized layout allows learners to focus on content rather than struggle with navigation.
A well-designed course signals the level of care and consideration put into the learning experience, elevating its perceived value. This design also enhances learner retention and comprehension.
Beyond Passive Learning: The Importance of Practice Activities and Interactives
One of the most effective ways to enhance learning retention is through practice activities and interactive elements (see the tabbed panel and sorting activity on the Types of Leadership page, for example). Engaging learners with formative assessments ensures they can apply their knowledge beyond the digital classroom.
Interactive elements such as quizzes, scenario-based learning, and simulations serve to:
- Align learning activities with intended outcomes.
- Reinforce key concepts through active participation.
- Make learning experiences more engaging and dynamic.
Rich, interactive content that deepens understanding and encourages the application of knowledge signals a strong course design.
Tools used in Leadership 201
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Languages Available: English
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