There are many types of software dedicated to course creators and it can sometimes be difficult to find your way around. Here is a summary of the criteria to take into account when acquiring an authoring tool or an LCMS and the different types of authoring tools that exist.
Definition of an authoring tool
Les Author tools are software that allows you to create online courses in order to improve the learning experience. These tools offer numerous interactive options (quizzes, multiple choice questions, etc.) to go beyond the simple PowerPoint presentation. Some tools are free and open-source, others are chargeable, and there are three types of authoring tools.
The three types of e-learning authoring tools
Web applications: a well-known type of authoring tool
A web application is hosted on a server and accessible directly online, it does not require installation on a computer. For a trainer, it is a very practical solution because he can work on the creation of his course modules where and when he wants and from any device equipped with a web browser.
Author tools in web application format generally havesimplified interfaces and are easier to handle. This type of authoring tool is recommended for professionals who are new to e-learning and want to quickly set up linear training modules.
Some applications also allow you to create courses entirely responsive so that learners can consult them directly on their smartphones or tablets.
Finally, the last advantage of web applications is the possibility of share work or work on a course delivery project collaboratively and in real time. It is therefore the ideal solution for team work.
Desktop applications
Desktop applications are software that can be installed directly on the computer. It is thus possible to work offline (ideal for professionals who are often on the go) and especially to benefit from more advanced functionalities than for web applications.
This type of authoring tool is generally the most robust and makes it possible to create tailor-made courses. They are perfect for complex e-learning modules and branching projects. Desktop applications can also incorporate advanced screen recording features and module customization options to add more interactivity.
PowerPoint plugins
Some types of authoring tools allow you to connect directly to Microsoft PowerPoint to add learning capabilities to traditional presentations. For example, it is possible to integrate a voice-over or quizzes.
These plugins are recommended when the courses have already been created in PowerPoint format and the trainer wants to transform them into interactive modules.. This avoids redoing all the content in another tool and capitalizing on an existing format.
Publishing formats
Once the course has been created, it is important to export it in order to distribute it to learners. There are several types of publication formats and most are available on author tools.
The recommended format is HTML5 because it allows the course to be followed from a computer, tablet or smartphone while maintaining the interactive elements (unlike a PDF which can also be viewed on all media but will not keep the interactive elements). It is advisable to avoid the Flash format as most mobile devices are not compatible with this technology.
It is therefore necessary to check that the type of authoring tools chosen allows the modules to be published in HTML5 format.
