How do you choose the best adaptive learning platform?

1 Define your objectives

Before you start looking for an adaptive learning platform, you need to have a clear idea of what you want to achieve with it. What are your learning goals and outcomes? Who are your learners and what are their needs and challenges? How will you measure the impact and effectiveness of the platform? Having a well-defined vision and criteria will help you narrow down your choices and focus on the features and functions that matter most to you.

2 Compare the adaptivity levels

Not all adaptive learning platforms are created equal. Some are more adaptive than others, depending on how they collect, analyze, and apply data to customize the learning experience. There are three main levels of adaptivity: macro-adaptivity, micro-adaptivity, and meta-adaptivity. Macro-adaptivity refers to the ability of the platform to assign different courses, modules, or paths to learners based on their initial assessment or profile. Micro-adaptivity refers to the ability of the platform to adjust the difficulty, content, feedback, and support within each lesson or activity based on the learner's performance and behavior. Meta-adaptivity refers to the ability of the platform to empower learners to control and regulate their own learning process, such as setting goals, choosing strategies, and monitoring progress. Depending on your objectives, you may want to look for a platform that offers one or more of these levels of adaptivity.

3 Evaluate the content quality

The content of the adaptive learning platform is the core of the learning experience. It should be relevant, engaging, and aligned with your learning goals and outcomes. You should also consider the source, format, and diversity of the content. Is it created by experts, peers, or users? Is it text-based, multimedia, or interactive? Does it offer multiple perspectives, representations, and examples? You should look for a platform that provides high-quality content that suits your learners' preferences and needs.

4 Check the user interface

The user interface of the adaptive learning platform is the way that learners interact with the content and the system. It should be intuitive, user-friendly, and responsive. You should also consider the accessibility, usability, and aesthetics of the interface. Is it compatible with different devices, browsers, and platforms? Is it easy to navigate, search, and manage? Does it have a pleasing and consistent design? You should look for a platform that offers a positive and seamless user experience.

5 Review the feedback and support

The feedback and support of the adaptive learning platform are the ways that learners receive guidance, encouragement, and assistance during the learning process. They should be timely, specific, and constructive. You should also consider the type, frequency, and source of the feedback and support. Is it formative, summative, or both? Is it immediate, delayed, or adaptive? Is it provided by the system, the instructor, or the peers? You should look for a platform that offers effective and appropriate feedback and support.

6 Ask for a demo or trial

The best way to find out if an adaptive learning platform meets your expectations and needs is to try it out yourself. You should ask for a demo or a trial of the platform before you make a final decision. You should also involve your learners, instructors, and administrators in the testing process. You should evaluate the platform based on your objectives, criteria, and feedback. You should also compare the platform with other alternatives and weigh the pros and cons. You should look for a platform that delivers the best value and results for your context.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?