
As Learning and Development experts, we at New Leaf Technologies know how hard it can be to keep up with all the L&D jargon.
Here’s what you may not know: the spread of new buzzwords in the L&D space mirrors the evolution of educational technology. So, although it may be tempting to think of terms like “gamification” and “LXPs” as superficial or faddish, they each represent important pedagogical research that can maximise your impact, empower your staff, and revolutionise the way you do corporate training.
Let’s break down some of the most prevalent buzzwords in the L&D space and learn why they matter.
Microlearning
You can probably gather from the prefix “micro” that microlearning is a bite-sized approach to learning. It delivers concise, focused content in short bursts, keeping the busy modern learner engaged and facilitating progress within the capacity that the learners themselves can spare.
Microlearning can take the form of quizzes, videos, articles, slide decks, games, quick exercises, flashcards, infographics, or even podcasts. Because microlearning modules tend to focus on a single skill at a time, they allow for easier learning and retention of material. They can even eliminate the need for full-day training seminars, cutting down on the amount of time it takes to train staff.
Gamification
In an eLearning development context, gamifying a learning system involves incorporating game mechanics and elements, such as points, badges, leaderboards, and interactive storylines. Gamification taps into the innate human desires for competition, achievement, and transformation, making learning more engaging and enjoyable.
The application of gamification is now remarkably beneficial in corporate training contexts, too. Not only can gamified learning systems motivate the staff who use them, but the leaderboard and point features can encourage friendly competition and even bolster rapport between colleagues.
Blended Learning
Unlike the other buzzwords on this list, blended learning isn’t a teaching tool; rather, it’s a pedagogical style that comprises various teaching techniques and tools. Blended learning combines traditional classroom instruction with online and digital components, offering a flexible and personalised approach to employee development, and accommodates diverse learning styles and preferences.
The primary advantages of blended learning are its versatility and accessibility. Its face-to-face component allows learners to interact with their instructor on a human level, which can keep them invested and curious. The digital component can be accessed by the learner at any time, allowing them to revise and consolidate information at a pace that feels natural to them.
Learning Experience Platform (LXP)
A Learning Experience Platform, or LXP, is a modern, user-friendly platform that curates and delivers personalised learning content with a focus on self-directed learning.
LXPs differ from traditional classroom settings and Learning Management Systems in many ways, the chief of which is that LXPs prioritise the manner in which the content is delivered, as opposed to content alone. LXPs allow users to contribute content, communicate with their teacher, conduct peer reviews and discussions, and take charge of their individual learning journeys.
LXPs are especially advantageous in corporate environments where staff may need tailored approaches based on their individual learning styles. With an LXP, staff can discuss difficult concepts with one another, consult their trainers, and choose how they engage with the learning material throughout the work day. In these ways, LXPs can position L&D in a way that does not take time away from personnel work but complements it instead.
Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR)
Virtual Reality immerses users in an entirely digitally constructed environment, whereas Augmented Reality superimposes dynamic computer-generated graphics onto a person’s real-world environment. Both these immersive technologies transport learners into realistic, simulated environments, enabling hands-on practice and experiential learning, which is particularly valuable for high-risk or complex scenarios.
VR is a revolutionary tool in industries where simulation training can enhance practical learning. Perhaps the most well-known types of VR simulation training are flight and surgical simulators, which allow learners to practise their skills without subjecting themselves to the risk those situations would normally entail. In corporate environments, VR can be used to simulate customer service interactions, public speaking exercises, conflict management scenarios, and other soft-skill training processes in a safe and controlled environment.
Augmented Reality allows learners to interact with digital content in their physical environments in real-time. Learners can use AR to overlay instructions and information over tools, superimpose videos onto what their cameras are capturing, and even translate different languages. Because AR can now be accessed via smartphones and tablets (and not just high-tech AR glasses), its scope for use is versatile across a huge range of learning settings.
Cut through the Noise with New Leaf Technologies
It’s crucial to remember that concepts like microlearning, LXPs, and AR are more than just buzzwords. They represent a changing corporate landscape that seeks to balance tradition with innovation. Companies who were seeing flagging interest and course completion rates are finding that, by incorporating the technologies these buzzwords represent, they’re able to improve learner engagement, boost their ROTI, and foster a culture of learning.
If you’d like to see how eLearning tech can improve your company’s L&D function, get in touch with us. New Leaf Technologies is ready to assist with a range of scalable L&D solutions available for companies of all sizes and industries.