So you work in learning and development and you want to create the best possible courses? Here’s eLearning content types you can test out in your newest releases. 

More of you are buying off-the-shelf learning content. 

And for likely good reason. 

Developing a one-hour eLearning course can take an average of 197 hours, with that time ranging between 49 to 716 hours depending on complexity.

When you have a list longer than your arm that’s growing by the second, it can be hard to keep on top of new L&D trends.

That’s where we come in. 

Keep reading to learn: 

• What eLearning content is (if you don’t already know) 
• The benefits of testing new eLearning content 
• Plus, 35 eLearning content types you might not have tried out yet 

Let’s get started.  

What is eLearning content?

Learning content is simply the material that delivers knowledge, builds skills, and drives behavioural change in an organisation or educational setting. 

It can be in a multitude of forms, from a short video, to a quiz, to a short pdf. 

Learning content is the bread and butter of a training programme. 

You can’t deliver learning without content. And whether you create it yourself, or get access to off-the-shelf learning content, you will need to understand what it is and what it’s for. 

The goal of learning content? To make learning more accessible, relevant, and effective. 

The benefits of testing new eLearning content types

Yes, you might have tried and tested learning content and be happy with your creation. 

But then why are you on this blog? 

You must be curious about what else you can try, and what methods you can use to engage your learners more effectively. 

After all, learner engagement is a key L&D challenge. 

Here are some key benefits of trying new, and different eLearning content types: 

• Keeps learning experiences fresh and relevant 
• Appeals to a diverse learning preferences 
• Demonstrates innovation in L&D strategy 
• Increases learner autonomy 

Let’s look at these in more detail. 

Keeps learning experiences fresh and relevant 

Using new content types combats learner fatigue from overused formats like slideshows and PDFs. 

Novel experiences can help you reengage learners and spark curiosity. 

Appeals to a diverse learning preferences 

One content type works for every learner. 

You’re likely going to be dealing with different learning preferences from visual, and auditory to kinesthetic and reflective. 

Trialling different formats allows you to be more inclusive, which can lead to better outcomes across your learning groups. 

Demonstrates innovation in L&D strategy 

Adopting new learning formats and strategies shows that you’re not stuck in the mud with ‘tick-the-box’ training. 

Trialling new content, no matter its success, helps you position yourself as a forward-thinking team that is pushing for organisational innovation. 

Increases learner autonomy 

Offering a variety of formats allows learners to choose how they engage. 

This can lead to greater motivation and often, self-directed learning. 

Having this level of autonomy can help you to build a culture of lifelong learning, not just compliance. 

Types of eLearning content 

eLearning content comes in many forms.

And with each one, you will find it suits a particular goal or learning style.

From interactive modules and video tutorials to quizzes, simulations, and gamified lessons, the variety of formats helps keep learners engaged while reinforcing key concepts.

Let’s dig into the different types of eLearning content out there so you can get started with creating more effective and dynamic online learning experiences.

Static and passive content 

Static content includes formats like PDFs, slide decks, and text-based modules. It’s typically used for foundational knowledge, policies, or reference material. 

While it’s generally less engaging, it can be useful for consistent messaging and documentation that learners can revisit at their own pace.

Some examples of this content type include: 

• PDFs and eBooks 
• Slide decks 
• Infographics 
• Cheat sheets
• HTML based micro content or SCORM content packages 

Video-based learning 

Video content offers a dynamic way to explain complex topics, demonstrate processes, or share expert insights. 

It’s ideal for visual learners and scalable across large audiences. 

When well-produced, videos can drive high engagement and help convey tone and emotion better than text.

Some video-based learning types include: 

• Lecture-style videos 
• Microlearning videos (2-5 minutes long)
• How-to’s or tutorial videos 
• Software walkthroughs 
• Explainer animations 
• Scenario-based videos 
• 360 degree or immersive video content 

Interactive content

Interactive learning includes simulations, clickable scenarios, drag-and-drop exercises, and decision trees. 

It encourages active participation, critical thinking, and experiential learning. This format is especially effective for skills application, systems training, or customer service scenarios.

• Interactive presentations and PDFs
• Branched decision trees
• Drag-and-drop exercises 
• Simulations 
• Digital flashcards and quizzes 

Assessment and quizzes 

Assessments and quizzes are used to measure comprehension, reinforce learning, and identify gaps. 

They provide instant feedback to learners and valuable data to L&D teams. When well-integrated, they also help break up content and improve retention through retrieval practice.

You could try: 

• Quizzes 
• Knowledge check-ins mid-course 
• Pre and post–tests 
• Gamified assessments 
• Simulations
  

Gamified learning 

Gamification incorporates elements like points, badges, leaderboards, and challenges into learning. 

Related: The role of gamification in learning

It taps into motivation and competition, making learning more engaging and fun. It’s particularly useful for soft skill development, onboarding, and compliance where traditional formats might feel dry.

Gamification in learning includes: 

• Points, badges, leaderboards
• Story-driven game modules
• Escape room-style eLearning
• Level-based progression learning
  

Social and collaborative learning

This approach involves discussion forums, peer feedback, group tasks, and knowledge sharing. 

Related: 9 reasons sharing knowledge is important

It leverages the collective intelligence of a group and supports informal learning. It’s powerful for team development, leadership programs, and reinforcing a learning culture.

• Discussion forums and chats
• Group activities / projects
• Peer reviews
• Social learning platforms
• User-generated content (employees sharing tips/videos)
  

Just-in-time learning 

Just-in-time training delivers content when it’s needed and it’s a trending topic for L&D professionals. 

It’s designed to solve problems or support tasks in real-time, reducing performance gaps. This is crucial in fast-paced environments where time is limited and precision matters.

Some examples of just-in-time learning include:

• Chatbots and virtual coaches
• On-the-job performance checklists
• Contextual tooltips / embedded help in software
• Mobile apps with searchable content

Wrapping up 

Embracing a variety of eLearning content types isn’t just a nice-to-have anymore. 

It’s become essential to creating effective, engaging, and inclusive learning experiences. 

By mixing formats strategically, you can better meet the needs of your learners, boost retention, and drive real performance outcomes. 

Sounds good right? 

Whether you’re refreshing your current programmes or building new ones from scratch, exploring different content types is a smart step toward more impactful learning.

Want to see our platform and how we can support a wide range of content types? Check out our Edition or see the platform in action. 

Plus, we can help you with off-the-shelf content if you’re hoping to offload content creation!