The Top 5 Trends in Learning and Development

Continuous employee development is one of the biggest responsibilities for Learning and Development Executives. As a result, the optimization of L&D strategies requires them to stay up to date on the latest advancements, trends, and best practices in the corporate training industry.

From bite-sized training to experiential learning, let’s now discuss the top 5 Learning and Development trends, as discussed in an eLearning Industry article. Consider incorporating these trends into your strategy to drive employee development and demonstrate the return on investment of your initiatives.

Top 5 Learning and Developing Trends

1. Personalization

Even though one-size-fits-all L&D solutions are commonplace due to their ease-of-implementation, their results often fall short of expectations. These solutions assume learners possess the same skill gaps and encourage them to focus on keeping pace with their peers instead of the areas in need of improvement.

To select the best tools for their workforce, L&D executives should conduct pre-assessments to gauge skill gaps and better understand employees’ developmental needs. This insight allows decision-makers to choose the solutions that keep employee growth at the forefront and maximize return on investment.

2. Bite-Sized Resources

While lengthy training sessions can create dissatisfaction among employees, bite-sized training resources meet the demands of shortened attention spans and allow learners to complete valuable developmental activities in a short span of time. This enables employees to return to work sooner and improves organizations’ online training ROI.

3. Robust Reports and Analytics

Measuring and proving ROI is one of the biggest challenges for L&D executives. Obtaining data on employee performance and development allows employers to “identify patterns and trends, as well as highlight individual strengths and weaknesses.” – Nipun Sharma, eLearning Industry

Performance data, such as Learning Management System (LMS) metrics and website statistics, highlights the effectiveness of current training initiatives and identifies gaps in L&D offerings. In order to make informed decisions, it is considered best practice to implement an LMS with advanced reporting and analytics features.

4. Gamification

Gamification is an effective way to engage and inspire employees who lack the drive to participate in developmental activities. Badges, points, and leaderboards are common methods used in corporate L&D programs. Gamification and incentives can also serve as a great feedback tool, as an employee who is unable to earn a badge or advance to the next level is a clear characteristic of someone who needs additional training.

5. Experiential Learning Environments

Experiential learning engages employees through a real-world environment where they can practice relevant career skills and learn from mistakes without the risks associated with training on the job. Employees are able to move from theory to practice as they solve problems and make decisions that parallel their role and organization. The instant feedback provided also allows employees to immediately translate the learning experience back to their job. Common experiential learning activities include business simulations, case studies, and role-playing exercises.

Learning and Development with Capsim

Our programs integrate experiential business simulations and assessments to eliminate the risks associated with training employees on the job. To learn how we can partner with you to create a program experience tailored to your specific learning objectives, reach out to Kiersten DeBrower, Capsim’s Manager of Training and Development, at kiersten.debrower@capsim.com or click here to schedule a 30-minute conversation.