You need to keep your modern learners happy if you want to retain your top talent and reduce attrition rates. This includes online training programs that live up to expectations and personalize the L&D process. The following eight online training activities and resources are now commonplace for learners.
1. Personalization
There is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all online training program. Modern learners expect personalized training resources that cater to their needs. As such, your organization must be able to provide them with relevant training materials that factor in personal preferences and job duties. Include clickable e-learning course maps and individualized online training paths, and recommended training resources based on past performance.
2. Microlearning Online Training Resources
Multitasking is a myth. The human brain cannot concentrate on more than one task at a time, but that doesn’t stop modern learners from trying. They’re busy with multiple assignments, which means they need quick and convenient online training activities. Here are a few bite-sized online training tools you may want to consider:
a. Infographics: A blend of images and text that highlight trends or explore work-related tasks.
b. Podcasts: Ideally suited for visual learners, as well as those who are on the go. Each podcast features a new topic or tip that’s easily digestible.
c. Video Demos: Video demos provide your modern learners with an example of favorable behaviors, which they can reproduce in the real world to achieve the desired outcomes.
3. Real-World Online Training Activities
Modern learners aren’t concerned with soaking up as much information as possible, but rather with using the knowledge they’ve gathered to improve their lives and further their goals. This requires real-world training activities (e.g., simulations and case studies) that allow them to apply all that data stored in mental schemas. More importantly, these online training resources must deal with different contexts so that modern learners understand how to utilize skills in various situations.
4. Interactive Multimedia
Learning experiences are more interactive and immersive than ever before. Thus, modern learners expect to see dynamic multimedia. This includes podcasts, recorded online training webinars, games, and branching scenarios. Keep in mind that you can have too much of a good thing: Too much interactivity can lead to cognitive overload and may even compromise the accessibility of your online training course.
5. Branded Online Training Content
Modern learners need to know that you stand behind your online training content and that it ties into your other online training initiatives. Many Learning Management Systems now allow you to incorporate your branding with ease by customizing the e-learning course layout and learner dashboards.
6. Mobile-Friendly Interface
A majority of the learning audience rely on their mobiles to get all the information they need throughout the day. To keep up with the times, your online training course must be multiplatform-friendly so that everyone can access the content on their preferred platform.
7. Serious Games/Gamification
Today’s modern learners were raised during the gaming revolution. Serious games are usually par-for-the-course, and they seize the opportunity to play their way through the online training process. Remember that modern learners are looking for purpose more than points. Their primary motivation is intrinsic, and they want to prove to themselves that they have what it takes.
8. Stress-Free E-learning Navigation
Stress-free e-learning navigation allows modern learners to access online training materials quickly, with minimal distractions. They must also deal with a constant influx of information, which can lead to cognitive overload. Fortunately, the aforementioned elements can help them focus on the online training materials and minimize external distractions.
