Today’s workforce is increasingly adept at getting things done with tech. This is reflected in the latest learning and development trends, which places focus on mobile devices perfect for on-the-go education. More than that, these trends lead to greater understanding of an individual employee’s impact in the workplace.
1. Mobile Learning
By 2020, it’s estimated that there will be more than 6.1 billion smartphones on the planet - a rapid increase from the 2.4 billion currently in circulation. This trend lends a lot to occupational learning, since employees can now receive training when it’s more convenient and effective for them.
Uninterrupted tasks and the option to review material in real time means increased productivity and higher quality work.
2. Games and VR
Certain industries have been taking advantage of virtual reality for ages, but as the tech becomes more easily available, companies are using it to provide a truly immersive training experience - quite a shift from “immersive” techniques of the past involving hours of video and live-action roleplay.
Like mobile learning, most gaming and VR trainings don’t need to occur on-site, making it a great option for remote workers and employees stationed far from headquarters.
3. Microlearning
Learning material in small increments is a perfect complement to the upward trend in mobile learning. It’s been demonstrated time and time again that employees and students retain more information and stay engaged when materials are under 10 minutes.
This learning and development trend ties in perfectly with mobile learning to ensure that employees can train with confidence. They can view specific information multiple times until they’re sure they’re ready to proceed with the task or the next video.
4. Personalized Training
New, tech-focused styles of training can be easily customized to unique roles. This eliminates time spent coasting through material that isn’t necessarily relevant to an employee’s job.
With all of the other trends emerging, companies can now essentially build a program for a specific worker, which leads to clearer understanding and increased job confidence.
5. Quantifiable Data
Technology in learning and development can also provide employers with analytics that can help them track progress of each team member. Depending on their needs, they can learn more about individual productivity, sales, and areas that require improvement.
Learning and development trends in the workplace are centered on efficiency and flexibility in delivery. Assessing current training methods and seeing where these upgrades will be most welcome is the first step in taking any business into the future.
