Over the years, the e-learning industry has gone through several changes. Fast-paced innovations accompanied by ever-rising demand for effective e-learning solutions has led to the development of various advanced tools and platforms. These tools include a diverse range of academic learning and employee training software that come with unique features.
While these tools were in high demand in the pre-pandemic world, the modern challenges have forced organisations to look for more effective ways of delivering training. As almost the entire workforce operates from remote locations, some new trends are expected to hit the eLearning industry soon.
In this article, we will discuss a few of such trends that are already starting to surface:
1. Micro-Learning
People around the world are worried about the future. The fear of uncertainty, as well as the pain of losing loved ones to this deadly virus, has put everyone in serious emotional distress. Such conditions along with already short attention spans are making it harder for learners to engage with the learning material. Thus, in order to deal with this problem, organisations are now opting for a microlearning format.
Microlearning is the style of learning where large pieces of information are broken down into smaller chunks that are easy to consume for the learner. Studies have proven that individuals focus and retain much better when information is provided in small bits instead of one lengthy course. In addition, microlearning also allows instructors to present the material in a fun and interactive manner which can improve the knowledge retention rate. It can also make course creation easy for developers. They do not need to create hours-long courses. They can simply create modules of as much as 15 minutes in duration which can save both time and cost involved in the process.
2. Artificial Intelligence
As per recent predictions, AI is expected to grow at a rate of more than 45% through 2021. It can be used to automate repetitive activities such as assessing or grading MCQs and assignments, etc. This will be helpful in producing real-time data related to learners’ progress.
Additionally, AI can also provide useful data on real-time interactions and user patterns within a learning management system. In a dynamic learning platform, this eliminates the need to work across static data sets that don’t reflect the true nature of user behaviours.
3. Mobile Learning
The delivery of training and learning content via mobile devices is known as mobile learning. Though this style of learning has been in practice for many years, its meaning is now gradually evolving. Previously, the focus was to develop courses with a responsive design so that they can adapt themselves to smaller screens. However, now many content developers see mobile devices as their primary platform and thus add desktop compatibility as a secondary feature. This change is resulting from the increasing use of mobile devices by employees to complete their official tasks during the lockdown. Organisations want their employees, even the ones that cannot access computers in their remote location, to engage with the material and not miss out on important training sessions.
4. Blended Learning
The future is currently unpredictable. Nobody knows when we will be able to get on track with our normal lives, both personal and professional. In the light of such conditions, organisations are starting to mix different learning styles, instead of focusing on just one, to make sure that the learning needs of all their employees are met. This approach is known as blended learning. It allows instructors to harness the power of different learning styles and make the learning process more effective.
Instructors can employ a combination of video lessons and text-based material, for example, to make sure that all employees capture the shared information.
Conclusion
By seeing how this year has been so far, it is fair to say that there are a lot many surprises yet to come. So, let’s tighten our seat belts and wait for some more interesting trends to make their way into the eLearning world.
