Thursday, April 3, 2025

Seven Trends in E-learning

 

01.Moving away from class based or course-based training to multiple ways         of training:


Classroom-based training continues to play a significant role in corporate learning, but its importance is now complemented by technology-based learning, mobile learning, and on-the-job workplace training. Learning managers face the challenge of integrating these diverse approaches to create cohesive and effective training programs. Over the past decade, corporations have witnessed substantial enthusiasm surrounding technology-based training, with predictions suggesting that web-based learning would dominate 90% of corporate training. However, these forecasts have not fully materialized. Instead, classroom training and technology-based learning often coexist in a model known as blended learning, combining the strengths of both methods to deliver a comprehensive learning experience.

Advantages over class-based learning:    

  • Focuses on individual learning rather than group-based learning.
  • Can be accessed anytime and anywhere.
  • Enables better connectivity with other learners and learning resources.
  • Allows learning at a pace set by the learner instead of a group pace.
  • Facilitates on-the-job learning whenever time permits.
  • Eliminates the need for travel or time away from work.
  • Provides the ability to search learning materials through online platforms.
  • Reduces costs, as instructors are not required to be paid continuously.
  • Eliminates the necessity for physical training spaces.
  • Updates to course content can be implemented instantly.
  • Directly integrates with performance support tools.

Computer-based learning (CBL) has been a key method in corporate training, offering structured and interactive learning experiences. However, it is gradually being replaced by web-based learning (WBL), which provides greater flexibility, accessibility, and opportunities for real-time interaction, aligning with the needs of today's digital workforce.

Advantages of WBL over CBL:

  • WBL eliminates the need for costly physical media like floppy disks and CD-ROMs.
  • Web-based materials can be updated easily and at no additional cost.
  • Facilitates social interaction across vast geographic areas.
  • Provides access to human instructors through online networks.
  • Incorporates advanced simulation and interactivity when well-designed.
  • Seamlessly integrates into performance support systems.

02. Move away from grades and certificates to personal portfolios.



The evolving trend suggests a move away from traditional standardized certifications towards personal portfolios that reflect current knowledge and skills. As people are likely to switch careers multiple times, employers are more interested in the competencies individuals possess in the present rather than qualifications obtained years ago. In a world where rapid changes are the norm, it is nearly impossible to predict the specific skills needed in the future. Therefore, curriculum planning should remain flexible and open-ended, ready to adapt to new directions and emerging needs.

Additionally, the workplace of the future will place great emphasis on the ability to unlearn outdated methods and embrace new approaches. Adapting to change will require individuals who can confidently let go of previous habits and explore innovative ways of doing things, fostering both creativity and resilience in dynamic environments.

 

03.Dramatic changes in eLearning Technologies:



Artificial intelligence and neural networking are revolutionizing eLearning by making software smarter and more adaptive. Future programs will personalize learning by identifying individual strengths and weaknesses, adjusting content accordingly, and improving through experience. This will enhance interactivity, moving beyond static page-flipping to dynamic, behavior-responsive tools.

Moreover, computing will become "invisible," seamlessly integrated into training technologies, making learning more natural and accessible anytime, anywhere. These systems will not only support training but also manage HR data, business metrics, and corporate communication through web-based portals, blending learning with organizational processes.

Simulated annealing- used in task assignment and scheduling

Adaptive resonance theory- use in smart web search engines and data mining

Ant colony optimization- used for demonstrating “swarm intelligence” and improving group learning

Neural networks and the back propagation algorithm: used in mimicking brain functions, and in     complex educational gaming

Genetic algorithms- used for demonstrations of complexity theory, computer aided design, problem solving, and educational games

Artificial life algorithms- used in the study of biological and social systems

Rules based systems- use in knowledge based expert systems, generation of automatic programming of instructional strategies, and the simulation of common sense

Fuzzy logic- used for quality of service (QoS) testing, and control of rules-based systems

Bigram models (aka Markov Models)- used for speech, music and text recognition, automatic writing, spell checkers, and verification of authorship

Agent based software- used for Web research, search engines, scheduling, planning, negotiating, and    notifying.

Autonomic computing- used to make computers self-configuring, self-healing, self-optimizing and self protecting.

Semantic web- used to make the content of the Web more meaningful so that it can be more easily    searched and shared

Affective computing- computer software will sense your emotions and act accordingly. They may even show emotions in return. This will increase the realism of eLearning simulations.

 

04. Move from document centric training to simulation and tutoring:


Large group presentations, though sometimes engaging, are often ineffective for learning. In contrast, one-on-one tutoring or mentorship with an expert offers a deeply enriching experience. However, the transition to technology-based learning has largely inherited a document-centric approach, dominated by web pages and PowerPoint presentations. A more impactful alternative involves leveraging computers for simulation-based learning, where the computer functions as a master tutor. Unfortunately, the high costs of such advanced training make it inaccessible for many organizations. As a practical solution, computers can be used to mimic real-life scenarios and provide interactive guidance, acting as an online tutor to enhance learning outcomes.

05. Move from group based training to personalized performance support in          the workplace:

While group-based teaching is common, learning itself is often a personal journey. The advancement of large-scale databases and intelligent computer programming has now made individualized, competency-based learning a reality. This approach allows learners to progress at their own speed, focus on material that is most relevant to their needs, and skip topics they have already mastered.

 

06.Move from expert centric knowledge delivery to collaborative knowledge         capture and dissemination:


Organizations are increasingly recognizing that valuable knowledge is not confined to experts or top-level managers but is distributed across the entire workforce. Knowledge management is now considered a critical factor for achieving a competitive edge. To address future challenges, it is essential to not only enhance individual skills and expertise but also harness the collective intelligence of teams. This shift has given rise to the concept of "learning communities" and "communities of practice," emphasizing collaboration and shared learning.

Modern knowledge management systems are being designed to support this trend, incorporating features such as internal discussion forums, chat platforms, company-wide reference libraries, online suggestion tools, glossaries, directories, personnel databases, archived communications, and collaborative work applications. These systems ensure that when key employees leave the organization, their insights and expertise are preserved through documentation or expert systems, making the knowledge readily available for future use.

07. Move from large proprietary applications to standardized interchangeable         objects:


The issue of 'bloatware' refers to large, proprietary applications that consume significant hard drive space and are often complex to implement and use. To address this, the current trend is shifting towards small, interchangeable software "objects" that are distributed over standardized information grids. These modular objects can be quickly delivered and accessed from anywhere, and are designed to work seamlessly on a user's computer via a "thin client." The most widely used information grid today is the World Wide Web.

Resources for shareable educational objects, such as simulations, animations, tutorials, quizzes, and case studies, are already available in repositories like www.Merlot.org. This platform lists various educational tools, and instructional designers are continuously discovering new ways to utilize these materials online. The possibilities for web-based educational resources continue to expand, offering greater flexibility and innovation in learning.


Reference list

Suganthalakshmi, Dr.T. and Suhasini, R. (2015). March 2015 Online Print Version International Journal of Scientific and Research Publications March 2015 Edition. [online] International Journal of Scientific and Research Publications. Available at: https://citeseerx.ist.psu.edu/document?repid=rep1&type=pdf&doi=00b66617a4c4613a8521c82f0dd6af435f85524d#page=347.

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Howtorobot.com. (2025). Available at: https://howtorobot.com/sites/default/files/2021-11/six-axis-robot.jpg [Accessed 3 Apr. 2025].


2 comments:

  1. This blog does a great job of capturing how corporate training is evolving. Blended learning, personalized approaches, and AI-driven tools are making learning more effective and accessible. I also loved the emphasis on collaboration and the shift toward modular, flexible learning tools. Which of these trends do you think will shape the future of workplace training the most?

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  2. You're welcome! I completely agree—constructivism stands out as a powerful approach for modern learning. Its emphasis on hands-on engagement, real-world relevance, and collaboration makes it ideal for fostering critical thinking and adaptability, which are essential in today’s rapidly changing environments. Thank you for sharing such a thoughtful perspective!

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