
E-learning content comes in many shapes and sizes, depending on the industry, the course content, and the learning community. Below we list popular e-learning content types that are translated to increase their international reach:
SCORM-compliant courses: SCORM stands for Shareable Content Object Reference Model. It refers to a set of technical standards that ensure e-learning courses are programmed in such a way that they will work with any learning management system (LMS). Typically for such courses, once the translation is done and approved, it is made SCORM-compliant and delivered to the client.
Extensible markup language (XML)-based training programs: XML-based distance learning courses are a popular form of web-based instruction. They allow you to cater to diverse audiences who are usually multilingual.
Certification programs: As the online classroom becomes more viable, remote learning is taking off like never before. Professionals are signing up for continuous learning programs. Many universities, including Ivy League institutions, are offering free as well as full degree programs online. The demand for these programs comes from not only North America, but also Europe, Africa, and Asia.
Classroom-based instruction material: These are usually add-ons to the curriculum rather than the main tool to deliver the curriculum. They may consist of videos, software, or other Internet-based resources.
PowerPoint presentations and webinars: They are often used to train staff in the workplace either on new products, upgrades, or for orienting new staff. As workforces become global, these too need to be translated.
Audio scripts: Audio narration is frequently used in training to provide a rich learning experience and hold the learner’s attention. Voice-overs or subtitles are usually used to translate audio scripts.
Video-based learning: Online courses from the likes of Coursera, Lynda.com, and Khan Academy are often entirely build on video. These platforms aim to provide the highest quality education to the greatest number of people, hence making it inevitable for them to think beyond English.
Assessments/exams: It’s not just the training modules, but also the tests and questionnaires that have to be translated and localized, keeping in mind cultural differences.