Over the past couple of years, eLearning has become more in-demand than ever. While there are several causes for this accelerated rate of adoption, one thing has become increasingly clear: organizations must adapt their learning and development strategies to the needs of the global landscape or risk falling behind.
With the first half of 2022 in the rearview mirror, now’s the time to look at the trends in the eLearning space and implement those that would make the biggest impact for your business before the end of the year. Here’s what you need to know.
How did eLearning change in 2021?
Companies and employers have been making the shift from in-person training to eLearning for years now, but that shift has been accelerated. So much so, that eLearning is now the norm, altering the way many of us think about work, corporate training and the learning experience as a whole.
Remote and blended learning are here to stay, and any organization that isn’t prioritizing large-scale digital changes in their learning processes are at risk of falling behind. But it’s not all doom and gloom. In fact, with a comprehensive, easy-to-use learning management system (LMS), the shift to online learning can be smooth and efficient.
Top 5 eLearning trends for 2022and beyond
While 2021 saw eLearning and LMS capabilities being embraced by the masses, 2022 trends indicate that this year is about enhancing and optimizing the learner experience to drive even more results. Here are our 5 eLearning trends for 2022 and beyond:
1. Mobile-first learning strategy
Integrating mobile learning, or mLearning, into your eLearning strategy is a surefire way to boost learner engagement in 2022. More and more companies are recognizing the efficiency and significance of mobile devices when it comes to eLearning. While some leaders stand firm in their belief that employees using their mobile devices is a detriment to business, there’s much more to be gained by embracing the technology. Mobile devices are carried everywhere and can deliver training and learning anywhere and at any time, 24/7. On-the-go mobile learning can help learners stay engaged and stay up-to-date with the latest training and news at a moment’s notice.
2. Adaptive learning
Adaptive learning will become a fundamental part of learning and development strategy. Within an LMS, adaptive learning determines the learner’s current knowledge and abilities. Artificial intelligence (AI) then provides personalized learning content, training and questions to match.
This L&D trend is designed to fit every learner’s training needs to create a productive and efficient learning experience. Instead of overwhelming the learner with subject matters a step or two beyond their current level, they’re met where they are and guided along to where they need to be. For learners that are struggling, adapting learning technology can then suggest hints, tips and immediate support to keep them on track.
3. Blended learning for flexible work arrangements
Half way through 2022, it’s clear that the hybrid workplace is here to stay—which means your LMS needs to be able to provide blended learning solutions. Companies and employers have to implement hybrid learning and training that can work for both in-office and remote workers.
The key to successful blended learning is a hybrid training model that can communicate with and actively include hybrid workers whether they’re at home or in-office.
4. Content for life skills and wellbeing
Corporate training will continue expanding to include skills and learning beyond those directly related to job responsibilities and tasks. Instead, companies will reprioritize and adopt eLearning content libraries aimed at healthy work-life balance, fighting burnout, mindfulness and employee collaboration.
Learning and development strategy will similarly need to offer more courses on personal and career development.
5. Virtual reality and training in the metaverse
Virtual reality is the new frontier for an immersive learning and development strategy—and it’s set to grow exponentially in 2022.
With quick tech advancements constantly entering the market, an increasing number of learners will have access to the metaverse, a digital space where learners and instructors can interact. This can be achieved via mobile devices, virtual reality headsets, computers, etc.
A major benefit? Companies can provide online training courses with realistic simulations in a risk-free, mixed reality environment. In the metaverse new skills, techniques and approaches can be taught hassle-free.
Prepare for 2022—and beyond—with Absorb LMS
Today’s leaders understand that company success and a great LMS go hand in hand. Absorb LMS empowers organizations to train employees with the skills needed to stay modern and relevant in today's fast-paced world.
For more information about Absorb LMS and how it can ensure you’re prepared to leverage these eLearning trends, reach out to our experts.
