Top 10 Learning Trends in 2024

Well here we are in February and I've left it this late in the year to tell you what I think are the trends in learning for this year.

No excuses but no apologies either. I waited until I'd attended World of Learning 2024, which experience galvanised my views and made me feel excited about the remaining months ahead.

So here they are. And a heady brew they do make.

1. Immersive Learning Experiences: VR, AR, and gamification will create engaging and interactive environments, boosting knowledge retention and motivation. Imagine practising public speaking in a virtual auditorium or mastering teamwork skills through a role-playing game.

I for one have caught the bug and as a result am a fully qualified and evangelising LEGO? Serious Play? Methods coach. LSP is a mesmerisingly powerful way to focus on important decisions and speed your workflow up at the same time.

2. AI-powered Learning Environments: AI will personalise learning paths, recommend content based on individual needs, and provide virtual tutors for real-time feedback. Imagine an AI assistant crafting a customised learning plan to address your specific knowledge gaps and learning style.

It's also going to be an incredible way to develop your curiosity and I'm definitely going to include the "Art of Prompting" in my Small Business Programme.

3. Microlearning: Bite-sized chunks of information delivered just-in-time will cater to busy schedules and support continuous learning. Microlearning modules can be accessed on any device, making learning seamless and convenient.

At the World of Learning I learned, via the enlightening Kerry Richardson all about Clever Nelly , a rather ingenious app for keeping employees "in the moment" via tips and reminders on how to face specific challenges in the workplace.

4. Internal Upskilling: Organizations will prioritize investing in their existing workforce instead of external recruitment. Upskilling programs will address future skill needs and boost employee engagement and retention.

Upskilling can come about in many ways, including eLearning programmes, which focus on learning, application and responsible social interaction, such as the introduction of accountability buddies. Last year I co-produced such a scheme for the wonderful crew at Mitie .

5. Specialized Training for Hybrid Work: Remote and in-person collaboration will necessitate training in remote communication, time management, and digital tools. This hybrid-focused training will ensure a smooth transition and optimise productivity in the blended work environment.

We've come such a long way since the seemingly distant dark days of The COVID Pandemic. Software collaboration tools such as Microsoft Teams and Mural have really made a difference to the way people like me facilitate courses and change perspectives. I discovered that particularly in my work with Intertrust Group in 2021 and 2022, when people from all over the globe were learning in the office and at home at the same time, possibly for the first time ever.

6. Learning Experience Platforms (LXPs): LXPs will go beyond traditional Learning Management Systems (LMS) by curating content, fostering collaboration, and offering personalized learning journeys. Think of it as a Netflix for learning, constantly suggesting relevant content based on your preferences and progress.

We're quite early doors here but my belief is that "edutainment" will be the biggest factor in motivating colleagues to learn online. See an old client of mine, Videoarts as a pioneering exponent of that.

7. Data-driven L&D: Learning analytics will track learner engagement, performance, and skill gaps. This data will be used to refine training programmes and measure their effectiveness, ensuring ROI on learning investments.

I've been involved in metrics, the dark science of monitoring online activity, since its inception in the late '90s - from software development, through email marketing, video production (analysing viewed engagement) and now L&D. It's taken a long time for it to "become mainstream" but these days stats are available for us to analyse and apply for self-improvement and the improvement of our teams in so many forms. Just look at social media "insights" for proof! The same will be just as true for monitoring effectiveness of learning programmes.

8. Focus on Soft Skills: In an increasingly automated world, soft skills like critical thinking, creativity, and emotional intelligence will be essential. L&D programs will address these skills through interactive exercises and real-world simulations.

The heart and soul of the world of facilitation, my world. Critical thinking and creativity are at the heart of every Workshop I facilitate - they stretch and mould the thinking of participants, stimulate the dopamine, oxytocin and serotonin (other hormones are available) and provide them with something to apply in their day-to-day interactions for a long time to come.

9. Learning in the Flow of Work: Learning will be integrated into daily tasks and workflows, reducing disruption and making it seamless. Imagine receiving microlearning modules as pop-ups while working on relevant tasks, solidifying knowledge in the practical context.

Learning really isn't just a one-time thing - something to box-check for delegates, HR and the CSuite. It's not just about microlearning either. It should be at the heart of every business culture. But then I'm just a little bit biased.

10. Social and Collaborative Learning: Peer-to-peer learning, online communities, and mentorship programs will foster knowledge sharing and collaboration. Imagine a platform where employees can exchange tips, answer each other's questions, and learn from each other's experiences.

In the world of playlists, online sharing and remote collaboration, community-based learning is slowly coming of age. And it's my job as a Leadership Consultant to stimulate that through group and teamwork - whether it's as a Facet5 trainer and accredited practitioner or LEGO? Serious Play? Methods coach.

How will you learn this year?