The Future Of Learning Is Digital

Digital learning is the future. As more organisations utilise technology to make learning and training more convenient for their employees, the shift from classroom to online is well on the rise. Even before COVID-19 swept across the globe, forcing organisations to work from home, some businesses started increasing their digital learning and training budgets to keep staff upskilled, engaged and motivated.

The World Economic Forum reports that in 2019, more than $18-billion was invested in language apps, virtual training, video conferencing tools and online learning software – all to improve digital training. And since the pandemic erupted, digital training has become even more crucial as organisations quickly realised the key benefits it offers employees and stakeholders. These include:

• More flexibility. Employees can learn in their own time, at their own pace with tools they already have.
• Increased information retention. With learning moments presented interactively, learning is more fun and information is easier to remember than with static workbooks and traditional testing strategies.
• Less time. Digital learning means no travelling or all-day learning sessions, which are time-consuming, costly, demanding on staff, and that can, in the short-term, reduce productivity.
• Cost-effective. Digital learning cuts expenses linked to in-person learning and training such as printing of material, travelling and accommodation costs. Organisations can save money and enjoy the benefits of increased employee productivity, ultimately resulting in higher profitability.

“We have seen the increased demand for digital learning and training,” says Michael Gullan, co-founder and managing director of G&G ADVC. “Solutions that can be packaged and digested in bite-sized experiences are being developed. Such digital learning offerings will empower employees and stakeholders to personalise their learning opportunities and decide how much they want to learn at any particular time,” he explains.

Although access to internet services still lacks in many parts of the developing world, the popularity and effectiveness of digital learning and training will continue even after the pandemic is over.

Top trends

Several trends are creating a surge in digital learning and training. Digital learning and training trends are focused on making the experience easier and more valuable for employees and organisations. As technology advances, digital learning will only get better as technology-based learning solutions respond to market needs.

The top trends are:

• Platforms are easily accessible. It’s crucial for employees to access digital learning and training opportunities easily. Platforms that offer flexible access from any device at any time meet the needs of employees with busy schedules. Digital learning considers that individuals learn at different paces and accommodates employees to learn at their own pace.
• Interactive content is a must. Informative content is no longer enough. Content has to be interesting and interactive so that employees can have an engaging and better learning experience as they navigate through the material. Interactive content can include quizzes, polls, audio clips and videos.
• Learning analytics. While employees and stakeholders navigate digital learning and training platforms, organisations can monitor their progress and engagement across the programme. This will offer valuable insights and allow organisations to evaluate the success of the platform. These insights also inform decisions on how to improve learning opportunities to achieve business outcomes.

“Digital learning offerings will empower employees and stakeholders to personalise their learning opportunities and decide how much they want to learn at any particular time.” – Michael Gullan