Fonts are usually last on an eLearning developer’s list of things to be aware of when designing their courses. However, the type of fonts you use contribute to great learning design and enhanced learning retention.
Here are five golden rules on the selection of fonts that every eLearning developer should know:
- Less is more
Don’t use too many contrasting or different fonts in your course. Pick a couple of fonts that work together and set the tone and mood you want to portray. It is recommended that you use three types of complementary fonts: one font and size for the body; another for the heading; and another for the subheading.
- Use space
Space between words and letters helps the learner to keep focus and is important when making a message noticeable. Make sure your text does not fight for prominence within a tight space.
- Introduce hierarchy
Typographic hierarchy is the way you stress the significance of certain lines of type as opposed to others. This is how you establish and move the order in which the learner receives information from the design. Sizing is a great way to introduce hierarchy and helps to guide the learner through the content.
- Practice correct alignment
There are four key alignment options: left-aligned; right-aligned; center-aligned; and justified. Left-alignment is the most common position used because it is easy on the eyes. A great tip is to avoid your text being too ragged. When you see loads of “bumps” in your text, try adjusting the length of your lines. This will help with easy reading.
- Colour
Colour contributes to your design and is used to highlight key information. Select colours that enhance learning and are in line with your tone and mood. Make sure the contrast between text and background is high enough so that learners with visual impairments can still read the text.
