Adding characters to your eLearning allows you to connect with learners and instruct them in a way that’s relatable and engaging. Today’s blog post is another excerpt from our upcoming eBook, Keys to Storytelling in eLearning. In the excerpt shared below, Jennifer Valley, our Trivantis® Community Manager, shares how to develop your eLearning characters to be flat, round, static, etc. Check out part of this chapter below:
Jennifer Valley, Trivantis
A key point in creating a story is the main character you use. This person acts as a visual, mental, emotional, and moral reference point for the audience to associate with. When creating an eLearning course that utilizes storytelling, you should select main characters who demonstrate what your company considers to be acceptable and profitable behavior. For example, if your company values the customer experience, your character should go above and beyond to please the customer.
Character Development
As your character’s actions progress along the story arc, he or she should go through a visible change and relate to the audience. This is commonly referred to as a character arc and happens while the story is told. There are multiple ways to develop a character, but let’s briefly discuss a few.
Flat Versus Round
A flat character is one that is described as one-dimensional. This type of character isn’t developed and is relatively uncomplicated. This type is best used for supporting or unseen characters. In contrast, a round character is one that is two-dimensional and complex. Round characters undergo heavy development and changes and are best used as focal characters.
Static Versus Dynamic
Similar to a flat character, a static character undergoes no changes throughout the story. A static character is best used to show a “bad” employee or unfazed customer. A dynamic character (like a round character) is one who changes throughout the story. This is best used to show changes in your focal character.
More ways to develop your eLearning characters and useful character types for creating depth will be revealed by Jennifer Valley in our Keys to Storytelling in eLearning eBook—coming soon!Subscribe to our emails so that you’re the first to know when the Keys to Storytelling in eLearning eBook is released. This eBook shares tips on using storytelling techniques in your training with chapters from industry thought leaders, instructional designers and developers, and the Trivantis® team.Bonus—when you subscribe, we’ll send helpful emails about free Inspiration Wednesday webinars, LUC 2017, and more.
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