The pyramid approach and how to apply it in elearning

What is the pyramidal approach to learning?

Although Elearning is everywhere and most people do it, there are often neglected challenges. Stay concentrated, understanding the content and really remembering what you have learned for a long time can be difficult during online learning. In fact, many learners take hours and always feel as if the information then disappears, not to mention what's going on when it is time to apply what they have learned. And although flexibility and freedom are always excellent in learning, a structured approach is also important. More specifically, we are about to discuss the pyramidal approach and how we can apply it in Elearning.

As we mentioned, the approach of the pyramid is a question of structure. It is a learning model that helps learners to browse three stages of knowledge: foundation, understanding and mastery. To visualize it like a pyramid, first imagine the base. Here, the emphasis is placed on fundamental knowledge such as facts, terms and basic information. Then, the intermediate layer concerns an understanding and deeper skills. The learners connects points, notice models, analyze concepts and practice what they have learned through exercises. The top of the pyramid is the application of knowledge and control. This is where learners apply their knowledge to solve real problems or complete complex tasks.

The pyramidal approach is based on educational psychology, in particular bloom taxonomy or scaffoldingThis is why it is easy to apply for Elearning. All these theories support the idea that learning is more effective when it is gradually built. Without further ado, let's explore the pyramidal approach and see how we can make it work in Elearning.

Pyramid layers

Basic layer: fundamental knowledge

The basic layer is to know the basics of a subject, such as definitions, key concepts and the general context. This is where learners are starting to ask questions such as: what does this term mean? How does this work? Why is it important? The key here is to focus on this layer as long as necessary for learners to build a solid base.

Middle -layer: skills and understanding

The intermediate layer of the pyramid consists in connecting the points. Learners will start to recognize models, understand relationships and explore how ideas connect to each other. This is where deeper learning occurs. Here, learners pass beyond memorization and begin to think critically.

Upper layer: Application and control

The top of the pyramid is the place where learners apply what they learned. This is where learning comes to life because they use their skills to solve problems, make decisions and perform significant tasks. And this is where learning begins to stay with them because they actively use their knowledge.

Application of the pyramid approach in Elearning

Structure course using the pyramid

Inasmuch as Educational designerYou know how to structure lessons. When it comes to conceiving them with the pyramid approach in mind, you want to follow each layer. Start with the base layer and incorporate definitions, key terms and even summaries of concepts. Then go to the intermediate layer and start building a context that your learners can understand and gain confidence. Finally, for the upper layer, add problems, projects or simulations to which learners must dive and apply their knowledge. For example, if you design a course on digital marketing for the base, explain terms such as SEO, CTR, etc.; For the community, learners analyze strategies and consult case studies; For the upper layer, they can create their own simulated campaign.

Add interactive tools to each layer

Elearning can offer you many tools that adapt perfectly to each layer of the pyramid. Just find them. For the basic layer of fundamental knowledge, your objective as an identifier is simple: learners must understand the bases. Perfect tools are microlearning videos focused on one subject at a time, flash cards for the storage of terms and slideshow for jargon or complex definitions. For the intermediate layer, where learners must acquire skills and understanding, use scenarios where learners make decisions and see their results, their discussion forums where they can exchange ideas and simulations for them to try things in a safe environment. Finally, for the upper layer, you want learners starting to apply what they learned. Thus, they should make projects solving real problems, role -playing simulations or assignments examined by their peers.

Support learning in layers with assessments

When you use the pyramidal approach in Elearning, your evaluations should evolve as learners go up the layers of the pyramid. Basically, ask them to finish fast quizs, answer contextual questions or play vocabulary games. In the middle, include more applied assessments such as mini-scanos, exercises or short trials. At the top, opt for real projects, challenges or group tasks. At each stage of the path, be sure to include training assessments, which help learners and instructors to see where they are before going to the next step.

Align learning objectives with each layer

Each stage of the pyramid needs a clear goal. This is why aligning your learning goals with each layer is a must. For the base layer, use words such as identifying, defining, recognizing, list, etc. For example: “Identify three key elements of effective referencing.” For the intermediate layer, use verbs as explain or compare, as “compare the SEO strategies on page and out of page”. Finally, for the upper layer, use assets such as resolution, creation or design. For example, “Create a SEO campaign”. The learners are more concentrated and motivated when they know what is expected of them at each stage. And when the instructors build their lessons around clear objectives, the course becomes more intentional and effective.

Encourage active learning

To really operate the pyramidal approach in Elearning, you must keep the learners active. So, to encourage active learning at all levels, try to ask them questions after videos, make them explain the concepts in their own words, offer choices with regard to missions or ask them to follow what they have learned. And do not underestimate the power of peer learning. Encourage group discussions, knowledge sharing and collaboration. Everyone has a unique perspective, and it is useful to share it with their peers.

Advantages of the pyramid approach in Elearning

Improvement of retention

If we try to take too much information too quickly, especially without connecting it to what we already know, we will forget it. This is how our brain works. However, the pyramid approach can help this. By starting with fundamental knowledge, learners slowly strengthen knowledge. Then, while they move in deeper concepts and finally in a real application, they reuse this knowledge, which helps them to remember any longer.

Increased motivation

One of the biggest earning difficulties is to remain committed. When the lessons are repetitive, learners tend to jump them. But the pyramid approach allows a variety of learning materials and interactive activities that keep things interesting. In addition, each layer of the pyramid helps them to progress, motivating them to continue to learn.

Skills development

It is difficult to stay motivated when everything in a course is too advanced, and many people abandon because of this. Fortunately, the approach of the pyramid prevents submergence. With each layer, learners perform something, which strengthens their confidence. As they reach the upper layer, they acquired the necessary skills in a way that seems natural.

Adaptability

The pyramidal approach can adapt to any subject or concept. For what? Because it is not what you learn, this is how you learn it. Each subject has basic knowledge, deeper skills and Real world applications. Thus, the learning content can be adapted accordingly, regardless of what your learners train.

Clear objectives

An often neglected advantage of the pyramid approach is how much it helps designers and course instructors. When you build a course with the Pyramid model in mind, you naturally organize your content by learning goals. Indeed, each layer has a specific objective. When your goals are clear, this reduces confusion and strengthens confidence between learners and identifiers.

Conclusion

By creating knowledge step by step, the basics of a concept to master it, you create stronger and lasting knowledge. The rupture of subjects and the structuring modules to follow this progress reinforces not only engagement, but also makes natural and enriching learning. So why not try?