The best way to create training that supports learners long after the initial learning is done is always a hotly debated topic. The dramatic shift to a more remote workforce has also amplified the need to ensure virtual knowledge transfer is more effective than ever before.
This new reality has only intensified the discussion in learning and development (L&D) circles about the need to create a more holistic learning experience beyond cursory knowledge sharing. That is why new approaches like learning experience design (LXD) are no longer on the fringe of the L&D industry.
Learning organizations of all sizes are beginning to embrace a shift to the once utopian ideal of designing and delivering deeper learning experiences. Combined with the explosion of new tools and technologies like adaptive gamification, virtual reality (VR), and even artificial intelligence (AI), designing immersive, multi-sensory experiences are no longer futuristic.
Speaking of the future, we are pleased to be welcoming back a popular feature from the past, the Weekly L&D Roundup. Each week our editorial team searches the world wide web for the freshest and most relevant content created by learning and development (L&D) thought leaders. In this return edition, we examine learning experiences!
So, here is what you need to know…
Instructional Design (ID) Or Learning Experience Design (LXD)?
One of the emerging nuances in training and development is the difference between instructional design (ID) and learning experience design (LXD). Chris Yackulic, CEO of Android Headlines, wrote an article to explain the differences between these two design approaches.
“While LXD has its roots in creative design, the roots of instructional design lie in the field of learning,” writes Yackulic.
Why you should read? Many learning professionals believe learning experience design (LXD) is the logical evolution of learning development. However, LXD is a more creative, less scientific approach.
Traditional instructional design is more linear and predictable, whereas designing a learning experience is a more creative and iterative process. LXD is a philosophy with creativity at its core.
By focusing on user experience, an iterative process, and creative experimentation, the discipline of LXD has really exploded on the L&D scene.
LXD has even been referred to as a natural evolution of the traditional ID process. Yet, the two are not exactly interchangeable. They take very different paths to achieve the end result.
When considering the path learners take when seeking more information on a topic, LXD seeks to anticipate those preferences and serve up a series of options so learners can choose the track that fits them best.
Therefore as an instructional designer, knowing which design philosophy to use can help promote deeper learning and improve performance in most situations. As your audience becomes more sophisticated, having suitable options will help ensure your training hits the mark.
After all, capturing and maintaining learners’ attention is not an exact science.
Read the Full Article: Instructional Design Vs. LXD: The Fundamental Differences
A New Type of Playlist, LinkedIn Learning Paths
In this article, Milan Stanic, a photographer at Seton Hall University, talks about how students can utilize LinkedIn Learning paths. The paths, or playlists of related content, are curated by topic or career track.
During the pandemic, LinkedIn Learning exploded. In fact, some employers started leveraging the platform as a way to supplement existing corporate training content.
Why you should read? With unlimited 24/7, on demand access to learning content covering most any subject, it is not hard to see why so many companies have been turning to 3rd party offerings like LinkedIn Learning to help create more complete learning experiences.
It doesn’t hurt that all a learner needs is a wifi connection and a computer to access unlimited learning on almost any subject. For example, as an L&D consultant, communication skills are one of the most critical skills to master.
A quick search finds the Develop Your Communication Skills and Interpersonal Influence course offering seemingly a perfect fit for the desired topic.
This way, finding and constructing unique paths for continued learning on a topic can be an efficient option when creating comprehensive learning experiences.
For organizations who want to create more complete learning experiences but do not have the resources to develop the needed content in-house, 3rd party solutions like LinkedIn Learning can fill the gap.
Read the Full Article: A New Type of Playlist, LinkedIn Learning Paths
Game-Based Learning (GBL) Leads to Deep Learning Experiences
This week’s last topic covers ways to use games to create more profound learning experiences. Written by Michael Niehoff, owner of Learners Empowered, the article explores adaptive learning, a learning path supported by artificial intelligence (AI) technology.
In an interview with the CEO of SplashLearn, Arpit Jain, Niehoff discusses the role game-based learning (GBL) can play in turning basic knowledge sharing into a rewarding learning experience.
Why you should read? Artificial intellegience (AI) is changing the game, literally. Creating learning experiences has become so much easier thanks to new AI-Driven technologies like game-based learning.
As instructional designers, we aim to see learners arrive at the end of a course or program with a greater understanding of the material. With that, GBL taps into intrinsic motivation, focusing on a learner’s personal motivation to learn.
Game-based learning combined with AI technology gives designers a recipe for success. Especially when dealing with learners who have varying levels of experience with the content.
By using AI technology, SplashLearn tailors learning content for each participant. While this approach to learning design is highly technical and requires many practitioners to come together to create the final product, the results are undeniable.
SplashLearn features interactive, self-paced, and adaptive formats that engage learners and increase learning outcomes in various ways.
What stands out most is the mission of encouraging exploration and curiosity. Jain suggests it is essential to meet learners where they are and allow them to explore and learn at their own pace.
Today, thanks to AI, that mission is no longer conceptual but actual.
Read the Full Article: How Research-Informed Games May Result in Deep Learning Experiences
Final Thoughts
Transitioning from basic instructional design to a more holistic learner-centric experience is about meeting learners’ needs. Instead of participants listening to a lecture or simply reading content on a screen, learning becomes active and personal.
This can be accomplished in many exciting new ways, some of which are discussed in the articles highlighted this week, such as the AI-driven methods of game-based learning or curated content libraries.
No matter what method of knowledge transfer is chosen, it is essential to reinforce learning long after the initial training is done.
That is why the case for employing learning experience design concepts is so compelling. However, it is just the first step in creating a more satisfying and longer-lasting learning experience, especially for today’s predominately millennial workforce.
Until next week, now you know what you need to know…
Do you currently leverage LXD to guide your learning development workflow? Do you use new technologies like immersive VR or game-based learning? How do you continue the learners’ learning process after their initial training? Your experience matters; share your thoughts with us on LinkedIn or Twitter!
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