Linear versus scrolling content

Nov 23, 2021

Hello!

I am doing research on horizontal vs. vertical eLearning page designs (linear vs. scrolling/web page). The goal is to develop a criteria for clients to help determine which approach will suit their requirements and the target audience.

As part of my research, I'm seeking to:

Understand elements that impact a course based on the page design chosen (i.e. device usage)
Read any scholarly/journal articles that support one over the other
Find outstanding examples of horizontal and vertical training

There is so much wealth of knowledge on this network, I was hoping you could share some insights or guide me to resources to help my research.

Thanks in advance

2 Replies
Chris Dale

Hi, In my view they both have advantages and disadvantages. It is really based on your target audience, what type  of device the majority of them will be using to access the content and of course the content itself. 

In the passed I have offered clients (my internal SMEs) a choice based on the likely size of the course, the level of interactivity required and the speed of the build. I show examples of previous builds where I have used Rise, Evolve and S360 so they can get a feel for what is possible.

Rise and Evolve are both web based and have similar outputs, but Evolve has or had them on interactivity - now you can add S360 elements into rise the balance is swinging back towards Rise. However, you do have more control over design using Evolve. S360 as you know is linear and can do pretty much whatever you want depending on your resources.

Time wise, I would rank it Rise, Evolve then S360 for speed of builds.

I think in future builds, unless there is a strong argument not to, I will be looking at using web-based tools to leverage the use of mobile devices and to benefit from the responsive interfaces.

Good luck with your research, hope that helps. 

Chris