In today’s world of online learning, a well-designed course catalog is key to helping learners find the right content quickly. For platforms like GOLS LMS, the course catalog is more than just a list—it’s the starting point of every learner’s journey. As we move into 2025, it’s important to create a course catalog that is simple, smart, and learner-friendly. This blog shares easy-to-follow tips to help you build an effective course catalog that works for everyone.
1. Make It Learner-Friendly
Start by thinking about who will use your course catalog. Learners want to find courses fast and without confusion. Keep your layout simple and easy to navigate.
What to do:
- Organize courses by category or subject.
- Highlight new or popular courses.
- Let users save favorites or create their own learning list.
- Add a short course summary or intro video.
2. Add Smart Search and Filters
Learners shouldn’t have to scroll endlessly. A smart course catalog uses search tools and filters so users can narrow down what they’re looking for.
How to help users find courses:
- Use a search bar that accepts keywords and even small spelling mistakes.
- Add filters like skill level, duration, topic, or language.
- Suggest courses based on user interests and past learning.
3. Make It Mobile and Accessible
Many learners access courses on their phones. Your course catalog should look good and work well on any screen. It should also be accessible to people with disabilities.
What to include:
- Easy navigation for phones and tablets.
- Clear fonts and fast loading pages.
- Support for screen readers and keyboard navigation.
- High contrast colors and alt text for images.
4. Personalize the Experience
A good course catalog shows courses based on the learner’s needs. Personalization keeps learners engaged and helps them discover more relevant content.
Ways to personalize:
- Show recommended courses based on what users viewed or completed.
- Allow users to set goals and track progress.
- Offer suggestions based on learning history.
5. Keep the Design Clean and Visual
Visual design matters. A clean and attractive course catalog makes it easier for learners to find what they need—and keeps them coming back.
Design tips:
- Use clear course titles and icons.
- Show course images or short video previews.
- Keep plenty of white space and avoid clutter.
6. Keep Content Updated
An outdated course catalog can be frustrating. Make sure all your course details are current and reflect the latest learning content.
How to stay up to date:
- Let instructors update course information.
- Add tags like “New” or “Recently Updated.”
- Show live course schedules or enrollment limits.
7. Show Clear Benefits
Learners want to know why a course is worth their time. Use your course catalog to explain what they’ll learn and how it will help them.
Include:
- Learning outcomes in bullet points.
- How the course connects to job skills or career growth.
- Ratings or reviews from past learners.
8. Connect with Other LMS Features
Your course catalog should work smoothly with the rest of your LMS features, like enrollment, tracking, and certification.
Smart connections:
- Let users sign up with one click.
- Show if a course has any prerequisites.
- Link with calendars or send reminders.
9. Use Data to Improve
Look at how learners use your course catalog. Use that data to improve layout, course listings, and content over time.
What to track:
- What courses are searched the most?
- Which pages have high exit rates?
- What percentage of users actually enroll after viewing?
10. Build a Community Feel
A course catalog can be more than just a list—it can feel like a place to connect and learn with others.
Ideas for engagement:
- Add reviews or ratings.
- Let users ask questions or share tips.
- Include social media links or forums.
Final Thoughts
In 2025, learners expect more from their course catalog experience. With tools like GOLS LMS, you can make your course catalog smart, simple, and engaging. Focus on helping learners find what they need, showing them value, and keeping everything up to date.
Remember, your course catalog is the gateway to learning. Keep it welcoming, organized, and full of helpful features. With the right design, you’ll boost enrollment and support better learning outcomes.
