This post is provided by guest blogger, Dianna Doyle, graduate student at the University of St. Francis in Joliet, Illinois, MS in Training and Development program.

Five technologies are transforming the way businesses and organizations design, deliver, and evaluate learning. These technologies can be integrated into training and development programs in innovative, practical ways. 

The first technology that is transforming training is through artificial intelligence (AI). Computers can now respond to learners skills, preferences, and needs by learning, reasoning, and self-correcting to match the individual learner’s style. Learning management systems (LMS) use adaptive learning software to monitor student behavior as they progress. If a student demonstrates a preference for a particular learning style — for example visual, verbal, or intuitive— the software will accommodate them by offering the appropriate type of content. Intelligent chatbots are also employed to guide participants through e-learning programs enhancing the learning experience by interacting with users in training activities. Bots deliver responsive information to specific triggers from the learner.

Next, predictive learning analytics (PLA) predict future outcomes and reduce unproductive training content. By identifying patterns and trends in historical data, organizations can make predictions about how learners are likely to behave in future training programs and on the job. PLA alerts instructors to intervention opportunities, gives trainees appropriate guidance, helps course designs to improve their training programs, and allows managers to make better decisions through the visually reports of the analytics obtained.

Cloud-based LMS platforms transform the way e-learning is delivered by alleviating the need to set up and maintain local servers. Enhanced accessibility allows users to log into their account from any approved location with an Internet connection.

Crowd-sourcing is another technology used by successful organizations. By connecting to a larger network of users, a learner benefits from the ability to access a collective knowledge base. Users can communicate and share resources to enhance their understanding of learning content.

Lastly, advanced virtual reality (VR) technologies are enabling organizations to simulate scenarios that are difficult or dangerous to create in real life. Through these VR simulations, employees are being trained to anticipate and prepare for realistic situations in advance and others are learning skills in virtual scenarios before handling dangerous equipment or performing difficult tasks.

These technologies are readily available in various formats to companies and organizations. By enhancing instructional design through technology, organizations are better able to engage trainees and tailor the learning to be more relevant to their job performance. While this article is provided by a technology company that produces the products discussed, the information is beneficial to trainers, trainees, content designers, and managers. This article provides links to better understand what AI, LMS, PLA, and VR are. In addition, it provides specific product links such as Moodle, Totara, and Zoola Analytics that can be purchased by companies. Tailoring training and making it responsive to how learners interact with a program is like having a personal tutor.

Reference

Lambda Solutions. (2018, October 5). Professional partner content: 5 technologies that

are transforming e-learning. Association for Talent Development. Retrieved from

https://www.td.org/professional-partner-content/5-technologies-that-are-

transforming-e-learning