Learning & Development Trends to Watch

We have seen substantial advancements in learning and development technology over the past few years. And in 2017 this trajectory is only moving faster. As you start thinking of ways to improve employee performance this year, check out these emerging trends affecting training in 2017.

Personalization Will Prevail

It’s not surprising in the age of tailored Netflix queues, “Genius” playlists, and customized news feeds that learners are seeking a more personalized approach to their learning. Gone are the days of one-size-fits-all lectures delivered to a room full of students, leaving some bored and disengaged, while others struggle to keep pace. A more personalized, adaptive approach is continuing to gain momentum, creating unique experiences tailored to each learner, as they engage with the learning at their own pace.

Look for solutions that provide predictive algorithms and data science to guide students down unique pathways and just-in-time review questions that are served to bolster memory and engage the student.

Gone are the days of one-size-fits-all lectures.

Microlearning Will Dominate

According to Pew Research Center, millennials became the largest generation in the workforce as of 2015. Since growing up with  Google, YouTube, and social media access out of the gate— these learners are carrying over their learning behavioral patterns right into the workforce. So, how can businesses keep up with the fast-paced learning styles of this younger workforce? The answer, according to Training Magazine, is “keep it short.” For millennials, formal training sessions are no match for bite-sized, media-rich content (between 3-5 minutes long) that can be consumed anywhere. This can be achieved through engaging, well-produced instructional videos, or dynamic, interactive activities. Providing learners with concise “chunks” of learning keeps them engaged.

In addition to keeping lessons short, different learning modalities will also be key. Everyone learns differently, and giving learners choice on how to study the material (by watching, reading, listening or practicing) allows each student to explore new learning pathways and discover their personal strengths — on their own.

Learner Analytics Will Measure

As more and more learning is disseminated through digital mediums, more and more data will clue us into better learning outcomes. This data will enable instructors and administrators to predict, say, whether an employee will actually retain and apply training back in the workplace! As Christopher Pappas from eLearning Industry explains, “analytics offer online facilitators and instructors a comprehensive look at how a learner is performing; if he/she may need additional help with a particular lesson or subject; and even if the learner is likely to pass or not.” For instance, this data can isolate a struggling student and pinpoint which concepts need further instruction or remediation. On a broader level, analytics can identify a problem with the overall training curriculum before it’s too late.