How to Build an Online Course in TalentLMS

TalentLMS is one of the best internal learning management systems (best for training your employees, contractors, and team members) on the market due to the large amount of value you receive for a modest investment in the platform. In this blog post and the video linked above, I will share with you my easy step-by-step process of how to build your online courses using a variety of different course creation methods within TalentLMS. And I highly recommend that you take advantage of the UNLIMITED free trial of TalentLMS I am able to give you with my affiliate link here.

Understanding TalentLMS Interfaces (New and Legacy)

TalentLMS provides two interfaces: the new interface and the legacy interface (and depending on when you are reading this or watching the video above, TalentLMS may have completely gotten rid of the legacy interface... and let's be honest, this is a good thing). Anyway, each TalentLMS Interface has a unique layout and features that affect how you build and organize courses. It's essential to understand where the course-building functions are located based on the interface you’re using:

• New Interface: The new interface is vibrant and packed with modern functionalities. Navigate to "Courses," click the "Add Course" button, and use sections like TalentCraft, Standard Content, and Learning Activities.
• Legacy Interface: If available when developing your course, the legacy interface offers simpler functionalities. You can create courses by selecting “Add Course” and providing your course details. Note that Talent Craft is unavailable in this version.

Core Components of Building an Online Course Using TalentLMS

1. Standard Content:
Begin by designing the fundamental structure of your course. TalentLMS allows you to incorporate:

• Text and Video Content: Develop text-based units, embed multimedia elements such as videos, and integrate web content to enhance learner engagement.
• Audio and Presentations: Use audio recordings and presentations to diversify content delivery. Upload files directly or integrate content from SlideShare.

2. Learning Activities:
Activities boost interaction and assess comprehension:

• Tests and Assessments: Set up various test types, including multiple-choice, fill-in-the-blank, or matching pairs.
• SCORM and xAPI Integration: Incorporate SCORM and xAPI packages created with external tools to deliver a richer learning experience.

3. Cloning and Reusing Existing Content:

If you have pre-existing material in other courses, TalentLMS makes it simple to clone and import content into new courses. This saves time and ensures consistency across your training programs.

And then there's TalentCraft - TalentLMS's Native Authoring Tool with AI

TalentCraft is TalentLMS’s built-in authoring tool, comparable to tools like Rise 360 but integrated into the platform at no extra cost. Here’s how you can use it:

• Start from Scratch: Begin with a blank slate and leverage AI for dynamic content generation.
• Import from a Document: Use pre-prepared documents to auto-generate content. Note that this feature may have limitations depending on document complexity.
• Generate with AI and Templates: AI can create initial outlines and content based on prompts, while templates offer structured layouts tailored for specific course types.

Recording and Editing with Descript

Now, while TalentCraft is amazing, and if you haven't already, you should definitely watch the YouTube video linked above, it is not a video creation tool. And, I highly recommend that even when using TalentCraft, you want to make sure you are integrating video into your courses since literally billions of people around the world like to learn via video. Therefore, I highly recommend that you use a program like Descript (sign up for free trial here) for recording and even harnessing the power of AI to edit your videos. Then you can export this content and add it to your TalentLMS courses.

External Learning Management System Recommendations

While TalentLMS excels as an internal LMS, platforms like LearnWorlds (grab a 30-day free trial here) or Kajabi (grab a 30-day free trial here) are better suited for marketing and selling e-learning courses externally (to your customers)

Your Turn to Start Building

TalentLMS offers a comprehensive platform that supports diverse learning materials and assessment formats, making it an excellent choice for internal training initiatives. With this blogpost and the video linked above, you are well-equipped to start crafting your online course—whether you’re training employees, educating contractors, or supporting a team, your tailored course is just a few clicks away.

Remember, successful online course creation involves not only quality content but also engaging delivery, structured assessments, and interactive components. Use TalentLMS to its fullest potential and turn your teaching vision into reality.

And make sure to grab your UNLIMITED (not timeframe restrictions) free trial of TalentLMS here to get started today.

With a free trial offering unlimited access for you and a few learners, what are you waiting for? Dive into the exciting journey of online course creation today!