Step-by-Step Instructional Design
Tools for Multimedia Creation

Animation Creation: Make Engaging Videos

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READ ABOUT IT

Animation videos are a dynamic way to present content.

They work especially well for explainer videos and storytelling in eLearning. Various tools are available to help instructional designers create engaging animations easily.

Recently, Vyond has become very popular for 2D video animation, especially for explainer videos. This type of animation is a great way to present content or tell a story.

Vyond includes a library of backgrounds, characters, props, and templates that you can use to quickly develop engaging animations that can be embedded as part of an eLearning experience or as a video to present content in-person.

Alternatives include Animaker, Biteable, and Powtoon, which are all great options and have their own unique features.

While you can easily create learning experiences without animation videos, these types of videos are great to show scenarios or explain concepts in an accessible way. Including high-quality animations can really step up your learning projects.

EXPLORE THE OPTIONS

Animation Tools

Vyond

Vyond is the industry-standard for developing 2D animation videos. It has a great timeline function and a 14-day free trial. It is pricy, and the “Essential” tier still has a watermark.

Animaker

Animaker is a popular animation maker with a limited free tier. Animating actions is easier, but more limited. There is also a great character creator.

The FREE version includes 3 downloads per month but has a watermark.

Biteable

Biteable is great for simple explainer videos that are slide-based, but it has a limited graphic selection. Biteable provides AI voiceover.

Powtoon

Powtoon has four different animation styles with intuitive useability. It also features a great character builder. Voiceover is more difficult to use in Powtoon than in other applications.

EXAMINE SCENARIOS FOR USE

When would these tools be used in learning and development?

  • Use Vyond to create character-driven animations for a conflict resolution module. The animations will depict realistic workplace conflicts and demonstrate effective resolution strategies.

  • Use Animaker to develop explainer videos for a health and safety training course. These videos will break down complex safety procedures into easy-to-follow steps.

REFLECT ON WHAT YOU’VE LEARNED

Reflect

In what situation would an animation be helpful to learning?

In what situation would including an animation be a distraction from learning?