Find Out How To Take Advantage Of These Trends
While remote working during lockdown led to more innovation and increased the appeal of digital learning, the novelty has begun to wear off [1]. With many returning to the office, employers have had to find new ways to blend an environment of learning while maintaining successful business results. Let’s look at the top learning and training trends for 2023 and beyond.
Top Learning And Training Trends For 2023
1. Microlearning
Not everyone can listen to several hours of learning and maintain their focus enough to feel fully trained. This is why many in the education and corporate sectors have turned to microlearning, which divides lessons into shorter segments. This strategy increases the number of lessons but reduces the duration of each lesson, allowing for more flexibility in the workplace, as employees can adjust their schedules without issue. According to most studies, the average adult has a maximum attention span of about 20 minutes, so these shorter learning activities are ideal. Examples of microlearning include:
- Educational quizzes and games
- Videos that break down larger topics into bite-size pieces, such as explainers or interactive videos
- Microcontent, which is short, highly contextual messages or hints
- Apps that provide microlessons on the go, such as Headspace or Word of the Day
- Infographics providing visual representations of information or data
- Social media, used for microblogging for small pieces of information on specific topics, that you can subscribe to
2. Incorporating Learning Management Systems
One of the biggest challenges to employee training is the vast mix of technology. To combat this, employers are now incorporating specialized Learning Management Systems (LMSs) software to digitize their training. Employers can house, deliver, and track their training programs in one system.
The use of LMSs has grown considerably over the past years, as COVID-19 lockdowns have moved in-person training sessions online. New features of LMSs include reviewing an employee’s past and present achievements, reviewing their current performance, and suggesting further training. There are plenty of new technologies expected to be incorporated into these systems, including:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) that allows for smart course personalization and online exam proctoring
- Mobile-first development, including social media integration for sharing badges and certifications
- Big Data is used to track User Experience more effectively, monitor the effectiveness of every module, and how well the curriculum applies
The global LMS market is expected to reach $40.95 billion in valuation by 2029 [2]. With these new applications and uses, the number of businesses incorporating LMSs in their training programs will only grow.
3. Gamification
It can be easier for employers to engage their employees in learning programs with an incentive. This is why many have turned to gamification to track the use and success of training programs, and to monitor the engagement of employees taking part in training. Employers have to provide content that deserves the attention of their employees.
Gamification is one of the more extravagant corporate learning trends, with many businesses feeling it’s beyond their reach. But by scaling down, gamification can be utilized by companies of all sizes. With the ability to create branded and theme-driven badges and certificates, gamification can create a bigger sense of community within the learning environment and business.
4. Learning With Agility
According to Gartner, over 30% of the skills required 3 years ago will soon be obsolete, with 58% of the workforce needing new skillsets to do their jobs successfully [3]. Employers must ensure their employees can adapt to the accelerating and unpredictable changes in their industries by encouraging learning that will futureproof their roles.
While employers provide the facilities and resources to learn new things, employees have to be agile and ready to upskill in both job-specific sectors and technical areas. Many are prepared to do this, with 74% of workers willing to learn new skills or retrain to boost employability [4]. With a sustained, organization-wide learning program, and a culture that encourages learning and innovation in new areas, employers can ensure their businesses are constantly evolving for an ever-changing working environment, and staying ahead of the competition.
Questions Around Other Learning
There has also been some debate about whether employees should be able to learn about subjects unrelated to their field during work hours. The 2023 Workplace Learning Trends report by Udemy raises the question of whether allowing employees to engage with learning can greatly benefit employee engagement and culture. By doing this, employees can bring more of their authentic selves into the workplace. One example mentioned is those in finance and accounting learning more about cryptocurrency and stock trading. While these skills don't apply to their day-to-day work, they can engage in the wider financial field, potentially encouraging innovation and engagement in their roles.
However, many employers may see this as an improper use of time and decide to limit access to these topics. The question then becomes what and how much a business should provide in learning resources. The learning space is constantly evolving, with new techniques and technologies like microlearning and gamification introduced and developed daily. The L&D industry is seeing further growth and investment, but employees must be open and encouraged to learn in an innovative and supportive working environment. Employing these new trends for 2023 is a great way to build on learning programs and ensure that training works for both employees and employers.
References:
[1] Importance of LMS Software During Covid-19 Pandemic
