2010 e-Learning Trends

A recently released survey sheds some light on the thoughts of Chief Learning Officers as 2010 kicks off. The good news is that most training executives are optimistic about the outlook for employee development this year.

The International Data Corporation (IDC) survey reports that companies are expecting positive developments in the role the training function plays within their companies. According to the data, 75% of companies believe that the perception of training within their company will be higher, and 74% report that the quality of their training offerings will improve in 2010.

Among the top activities that CLOs believe will make the most impact in 2010 is self-paced e-Learning. More specifically, they believe simulations deserve increased attention by the learning industry. Staffing shortages, travel restrictions, and remote working opportunities are prompting more companies to consider implementing an e-Learning component to their training strategies.

Elliott Masie, CEO of The Masie Center, said he believes 2010 will be the year of the story. (Of course, we at NexLearn agree completely.) “Our learners want stories that have high credibility, actionable content, and rich field context… Leaders (in person and virtual) will increase their storytelling, story gathering and yes, story listening skills in 2010,” explains Masie. However what’s better than telling your learners an interesting and engaging story? Using immersive learning simulations to place them directly in the middle of that story! If you allow users to interact with story characters, engage in decision making behavior, and experience the wide range of emotions attached to the storyline, the opportunity for information retention will skyrocket.

 

BlogBites
Check out these recent e-Learning blog posts:

“Collaboration”
Elliott Masie discusses using emerging technologies to leverage collaboration and social learning.
(http://trends.masie.com/)

“Better User Experience with Storytelling – Part One”
This Smashing Magazine article explores the importance of using storytelling to create an emotional connection that enhances the user learning experience.
(http://www.smashingmagazine.com/)

“Predictions and Plans for 2010”
This blog includes industry predictions for the coming year by e-Learning experts.
(http://learningcircuits.blogspot.com/)

If you have a great blog (or know of one) that you want to share, send us the link. We just might include it in a future Simpact edition. Send the link to our Expert.

February Survey

Which of the following is higher on your 2010 training wish list?

More executive support for training initiative
  
 
More development support for e-Learning courses
  
 
More opportunties to showcase e-Learning strategy
  
 
Last Month’s Survey Results

Does your organization allow access to social networking sites?

Yes. Employees may share company experiences.
  
 
Yes and No. The sites must be business related.
  
 
No. Networking sites are forbidden during work.
  
 
Ask the Expert

Question:
I’ve been researching different approaches for a new training course we need to create for our customer desk associates. I love the idea of using simulations to teach employees how to interact with customers (and I think SimWriter will be a great tool to use to develop this training); however, the course must also instruct users how to use our proprietary CSR software. Can I use SimWriter to create this segment as well?

Answer:
Absolutely! With SimWriter, you can make engaging simulations that address both social and hard skills. Imagine immersing your employees in a scenario where they learn to communicate and listen to customer needs, monitor and react to customer body language, practice face-to-face decision-making skills, AND test their knowledge of your organization’s CSR software…all in one simulation. Well, stop imagining and use SimWriter to make it happen!

Have a question about e-Learning or Simulation-based Learning? Send it to our Expert.


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