8 Sensational eLearning Trends For 2016
The future of learning lies outside traditional classrooms and the rising popularity of distance and eLearning is a living proof of that. Here are 8 sensational eLearning trends that are taking the world by storm.
1. Mobile Learning And Mobile Friendly Coursework
Mobile learning, also known as mLearning, is not simply eLearning on a mobile device. The eLearning material for mobile learning is specifically developed for mobile devices and the proper course content conversion demands skillful Instructional Design that is compatible with mobile devices. eLearning has become a fiercely consumer driven industry and the developers of eLearning contents focus on prioritizing the client’s needs (Clark and Mayer, 2016, p.67). Increasing companies are launching Learning Management Systems and are promoting eLearning with the help of native apps that are operational over multiple platforms. These organizations want their employees to have the luxury of accessing training materials and resources from any device, at any time and any place. The rising trend of mobile learning thus does not bind eLearning experience to individuals sitting in front of a PC; rather, it revolutionizes eLearning course designs for the next generation, always "on the go".
2. Gamification In Learning
This is a trend which aims at making learning a fun experience for individuals and has become one of the most sensational eLearning trends in 2016. Gamification of learning is not just meant for kids, but it equally engaging for adults and facilitates interaction. Gamification is not a very new trend; however, it is an ever evolving one. This is an extremely powerful tool that improves learner innovation, skills, and problem solving capabilities. Learning games utilize several levels, that learners must complete, which focus on key issues or topics, thus helping knowledge retention. Organizations and corporations have invested in development of modules which combine training with games to improve employee performance, as well aid their personal development (Td.org. 2016).
3. Microlearning
In a world that is perennially in haste, microlearning is the trend that is catching up the fastest. This eLearning trend involves mini bytes of learning content made available to the learner or user to incorporate in his daily busy schedule without much difficulty (Hung, J.L. 2012, p.8). Microlearning utilizes 5-10 minute videos, single page documents, focused articles, specific, small chunks of data or lessons and other such innovative and concise training resources that doesn’t burden the learner with too much cognitive reading. It can be accessed by users via mobile and other devices as bits of light reading providing a treasure trove of information, making it extremely popular, especially in the corporate sector.
4. Informal Training / Video-Based Training
Thanks to the internet, access to information that one needs has never been easier. Individuals, today, are a click away from gaining knowledge, insight, and even adequate training on a matter of complete ignorance within a fraction of a second. A plethora of free and easily accessible informal learning resources such as videos, blogs, podcasts, and webinars are coaxing more and more people to take notice of this eLearning trend. Video-based trainings are among the most popular of these resources as they are designed to arrest and engage individuals. People, old or young, love watching videos and this trait is being exploited by eLearning designers as well as organizations who have began incorporating videos in online learning and training (Td.org. 2016).
5. Personalization Of Learning And Data / Competency-Based Learning
Popularization of eLearning has resulted in the popularization of personalized learning and access to data as well. A learner who falls behind the class in a particular topic can make use of the eLearning system to get access to more personalized instructions to catch up. More and more institutes make use of this Instructional Design to separate mastery and lack of it, facilitating better development of a student. On the other hand, competency-based learning and training programs in corporate organizations are a huge hit and a rising trend in eLearning. It provides the employees an insight into their own skills, strengths, and weaknesses and lets them identify the areas of improvement required to climb the corporate ladder.
6. Big Data
Big data is the data or feedback that is produced by learners or users interacting with the eLearning content and it is a big trend in the universe of eLearning. Big data is collected through Learning Management Systems and several other media. It empowers developers to improve and modify eLearning courses, content, and material by delving deep into the learning behaviors and preferences of the users. It provides robust statistics and numbers that allow the developers to tailor and customize learning activities according to the consumer needs, and help organizations to fine tune their eLearning strategy in alignment to their objectives (Td.org. 2016).
7. Cloud-Based eLearning Systems
Cloud-based corporate training is steadily gaining ground and the latest trend has seen Learning Management Systems and authoring tools switch to cloud-based platforms. Cloud-based online training is easily accessible to employees and reduces training costs significantly (Hung, J.L. 2012, p.10). Additionally, updating online training content and introducing new products and features is easy on Cloud and can be accomplished in a matter of minutes. Cloud-based eLearning and training also ensures advanced data encryption, thus aiding data security.
8. Wearable Technology Training
Wearable gadgets are the new rage in the world of technology. Google Glass, Apple Watch, and Oculus Rift are some of the gadgets that have pioneered the rising trend of Virtual Reality in eLearning through wearable gadgets. These wearable tech devices help users to interact with eLearning content in a multi-dimensional and more dynamic way (Clark and Mayer, 2016, p.68). These devices make eLearning more engaging and interactive to individuals. Technological advancements in the field make Virtual Reality more appealing with the help of 3D simulations and scenarios in the eLearning realm.
References:
- Book: Clark, R.C. and Mayer, R.E. (2016). eLearning And The Science Of Instruction: Proven Guidelines For Consumers And Designers Of Multimedia Learning. Hoboken: John Wiley & Sons.
- Journal: Hung, J.L. (2012). Trends Of eLearning Research From 2000 To 2008: Use Of Text Mining And Bibliometrics. British Journal of Educational Technology,43(1), pp.5-16.
- Website: Td.org. (2016). 4 Tech Trends That Can Help You Design More Effective eLearning. [Accessed 7 Jul. 2016].
