Creating Memorable Learning Experiences: The Intersection of Brand and Design

If you think branding is only for car dealers and luxury watch sellers, it's time to reconsider. When it comes to creating memorable learning experiences, instructional designers and educators can learn a thing or two from the marketing pros, especially about branding. The truth is that branded learning experiences help you stand out in a crowded marketplace. Even before potential learners have clicked on your website, they will have formed an opinion on your brand and whether they want to stick around. That’s how impactful branding can be.

If branding in education is a new concept for you, then today’s post is essential reading. We take the guesswork out of creating memorable learning experiences by integrating branding and design. Our actionable tips will help ensure you create educational programs that resonate with learners and leave a lasting impression.

Mention the word branding, and it’s a visual identity that usually springs to mind. Think logos, corporate colours and fonts. However, that’s only part of the story. Branding also encompasses the overall identity and perception of an online learning program. A strong brand can foster a sense of trust, credibility and engagement among learners.

Coursera and Duolingo are two leading examples of instantly recognisable digital learning brands. These organisations have successfully developed a strong identity and positioned themselves as credible and trusted. As a result, Coursera and Duolingo have an impressive track record of attracting and retaining motivated and committed learners.

If you’re looking for some best practice case studies in educational branding, then check out the following inspiring examples:

Digital Learning Institute: OK, we may be just a bit biased, but we’re proud of how we have integrated branding and learning design at DLI. We have seamlessly integrated our brand identity into all our course materials, eBooks, micro-credentials, blog and even Bob Bloom our AI assistant. Using brand-aligned course design, consistent storytelling, and a cohesive UX/UI have helped us create instantly recognizable, engaging and memorable learning experiences.

Samford University: The esteemed Samford University partnered with Carnegie to refine its branding and increase engagement. A wide range of initiatives included personalised digital strategies, cohesive visual identity, and targeted storytelling campaigns. The rebranding was very successful and saw significant increases in student enrollment and retention.  

EdTutor:  EdTutor, a tech startup offering an AI-driven tutoring app, used a mascot and Tudor-era-inspired design elements to stand out in the competitive market. The Tudor theme also carried through to the catchy tagline: Tough class? Don’t lose your head. The branding aligned with the preferences of EdTutor’s target audience and differentiated it from more conventional tech-based competitors​.

In this section, we share some actionable tips to help you get started on creating a cohesive design and branding.

Our first tip is to ensure you align course objectives with brand messaging. The program’s objectives should reflect your brand’s values and mission. This helps create a cohesive learning experience that really resonates with students.

Next, ensure you use branded visuals and language consistently throughout the course materials. Speak to your target audience in a language and tone that they understand and can relate to. Incorporate your logo and use a well-chosen colour palette.  

A consistent look and feel are crucial to establishing a strong brand identity. For learners, consistency makes you instantly recognisable and provides an assurance that they will receive the same quality service as before. 

Furthermore, look to create memorable touchpoints in your digital learning programs. Examples include branded onboarding, welcome messages, certificates, multimedia and interactive elements. Personalisation is also key. Personalised learner recommendations, content and feedback will take your brand to another level.

Finally, regular opportunities for user feedback should be provided. Not only does this enhance the learning experience, but it also helps you identify areas for improvement in your brand-aligned course design. Continuous improvement is the order of the day. Regularly review and update your branded learning experiences so they remain relevant and effective.

Creating memorable learning experiences is a top priority for educators and instructional designers everywhere. And the intersection of brand and design is a powerful tool to help you get there.

Incorporating branding into your learning design creates a sense of familiarity and reliability, helping you stand out from the crowd. It boosts learner trust and satisfaction and also impacts outcomes. Learners are more likely to engage with memorable content and achieve their learning goals.

Use the best practice instructional design tips we’ve shared to build educational programs that resonate with learners and leave a lasting impression.