Asking ChatGPT, “How much does it cost to create e-Learning?”

Having a little fun chatting with AI to see what it knows about e-Learning. Using Craiyon, a free online AI image generator, to generate the images for the post.

ChatGPT: The cost of creating e-learning content can vary widely depending on a number of factors, such as the complexity of the content, the level of interactivity required, the technology used, and the amount of customization needed. Here are some of the main factors that can influence the cost of e-learning development:

1. Content development: The cost of creating the content itself, such as writing scripts, creating graphics, and recording videos, can vary depending on the level of detail and the amount of customization required.
2. Instructional design: Developing effective e-learning courses requires careful planning and design, which can involve analyzing learner needs, creating learning objectives, and developing assessment strategies. Instructional design can be a time-consuming and complex process that can significantly impact the cost of e-learning development.
3. Multimedia production: The use of multimedia elements like animations, simulations, and interactive quizzes can enhance the learning experience but can also add to the cost of e-learning development.
4. Technology: The cost of developing and delivering e-learning content can depend on the technology used, such as learning management systems, authoring tools, and video production equipment.
5. Customization: Customizing e-learning content to meet specific organizational or industry requirements can add to the cost of development.

My Thoughts

Overall, the cost of developing e-learning content can range from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars, or more, depending on the specific requirements and complexity of the project. It’s essential to work with an experienced e-learning developer to get an accurate estimate of costs and to ensure that the project meets your needs and objectives.

I posed a similar question to Microsoft’s Bing, which informed me the cost depends upon complexity, course length, quality of voiceover, amount of information provided, and choice of LMS. It stated, ‘According to some sources, it can range from $5,000 to $150,000 USD per hour of learning content. Bing then asked me what type of e-learning course I was interested in creating. I stated, Level 3.

Bing then followed up by asking me how long I wanted the course to be. I stated one hour. Its response was, “According to one source, a level 3 e-Learning course takes about 490 hours to develop per hour of learning content. Assuming an average hourly labor cost of $65, that would be about $31,850 USD. However, this is only an estimate and the actual cost may vary depending on other factors. 

My next question was, “Where did you get these figures from?” Here’s its response:

I got these figures from a web search result. It is based on research by Chapman Alliance that surveyed 249 e-learning professionals. However, it is not a definitive answer, and you may want to consult with an e-learning developer for a more accurate quote. 

As I continue to research both ChatGPT and Bing, it’s clear these tools have a place in the e-Learning world but they must be fact-checked. At the moment, I see them as more curation tools to stir my creativity and may see their real value once they are integrated into applications like Storyline 360.

Your thoughts?

If you are looking to create e-Learning, please reach out, and let’s talk!