eLearning Trends in 2024
At its core, eLearning is the use of electronic technologies to provide access to educational content outside of a traditional classroom (Clark & Mayer, 2002). But in 2024, eLearning goes beyond merely delivering content online. It’s about creating dynamic, interactive, and personalised experiences that keep learners engaged.
With tools like artificial intelligence (AI), adaptive learning, and immersive technologies, eLearning has transformed into a robust approach that aligns with learners’ needs, schedules, and preferences. Let’s dive into what’s shaping eLearning today and how you can use these trends to supercharge your design.
AI and Personalisation: Tailoring the Learning Journey
AI has made eLearning content more personalised and curated for both creators and learners alike. In 2024, AI-driven tools can assess a learner’s progress, identify their knowledge gaps, and suggest tailored content to meet their specific needs. This means you can create unique learning journeys for each participant, ensuring a customiszed experience that enhances engagement.
Microlearning: Small, Powerful Learning Bursts
In today’s fast-paced world, time is a luxury. Microlearning—delivering content in small, easily digestible units—has become a powerful eLearning tool. These bite-sized modules cater to shorter attention spans and fit seamlessly into busy schedules, making it easy for learners to engage with the material on the go.
Immersive Learning: From Virtual Reality to Gamification
According to a study by PwC (2019), virtual reality (VR) training is four times faster than traditional classroom training and can improve learner confidence by 275%. Learners often retain information better when they experience it rather than just read about it. Immersive learning tools like virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and gamification make learning more interactive and engaging by simulating real-world scenarios. These techniques work exceptionally well for skill-based training, allowing learners to “practice” without real-world consequences.
Social Learning: Building a Collaborative Environment
With remote work and digital learning on the rise, social learning—where learners interact and learn from each other—has become vital. Discussion boards, peer reviews, and group projects create an online learning community that mirrors a collaborative work environment, making learning more engaging and memorable.
Tips on Getting Ahead of the Curve
Now that we’re aware of what’s trending in eLearning, how can we use that to our advantage?
- Start Small: Begin with one trend that aligns with your current goals, such as microlearning or social learning.
- Stay Flexible: Use modular design to adjust content based on learner feedback or emerging needs.
- Leverage Analytics: Track engagement metrics to see which modules or features perform best and iteratively improve them.
- Invest in the Right Tools: Choose eLearning platforms that support these trends without requiring extensive technical skills.
To Sum It Up
In 2024, eLearning and instructional design are more dynamic and adaptable than ever. By embracing AI-driven personalisation, microlearning, immersive technologies, and social learning, you can create experiences that are more engaging, relevant, and impactful for your learners.
Keep an eye on these trends, stay flexible, and continue to explore new tools and strategies that empower your learners to grow and thrive.
Related Blogs:
The Ethics of AI in Learning Design
References
Clark, R. C., & Mayer, R. E. (2002). E-Learning and the Science of Instruction: Proven Guidelines for Consumers and Designers of Multimedia Learning. Wiley.
PwC UK. (2019). The effectiveness of VR soft skills training in the enterprise.