According to eLearning Industries, there are several trends to look for as we approach 2017. The future of learning definitely lies outside traditional classrooms with eLearning and distance learning gaining increasing momentum. The most notable trends include the following.

• The Simulation. Once reserved for addressing aviation and health care, is gaining momentum as a game changer for other application training. They have proven effective for sales, safety or any high-risk environment. They can be high tech, or as a simple role play or game. They can be comprised of realistic 2D and 3D images, redesigned video or simple graphics.
• Mobile Learning or mLearning is designed for the next generation that is always on the go. It is not just eLearning on a mobile device. The material is specifically rendered and developed for mobile learning, requiring skillful design.
• Gamification makes learning fun and was one of the hottest trends in 2016. It can be very useful in improving learner innovation and problem solving.
• Microlearning utilizes mini content bytes (e.g. 5 minutes videos) made available to the learner to work into their busy schedule. It is typically accessed on multiple devices. It’s very popular with corporate clients.
• Big Data collected through the LMS allows developers to improve and modify eLearning courses, content, and material by delving deep into the learning behaviors and preferences of the users. It provides robust statistics and numbers that allow the developers to tailor and customize learning activities according to the consumer needs and also adjust the organization’s eLearning strategy as required.
• Cloud-Based eLearning Systems have encouraged LMS’ and authoring tools switch to cloud-based platforms. Cloud-based online training is easily accessible to employees and reduces training costs significantly Updating online training content and introducing new products and features is easy on Cloud and it also ensures advanced data security.
• Wearable Technology Training includes-Google Glass, Apple Watch, and Oculus Rift. These wearable tech devices help users interact with eLearning content in a multi-dimensional and more dynamic way. They become more appealing with the help of 3D simulations and scenarios.
• Competency-Based Learning is a huge hit and a rising trend in eLearning. It provides employees an insight into their own skills, strengths, and weaknesses and lets them identify the areas of improvement required to climb the corporate ladder.

One thing that hasn’t changed is doing your due diligence. It’s imperative that you understand your organization’s needs and limitations and partner with an expert who can help guide you through you decisions. Please feel free to contact me if you are interested in discussing these trends further.