The rate of individuals learning online is on the rise, and with the average cost of a 4-year college degree now topping $20k per year, this trend shows no sign of slowing down. As consumers continue to turn to online technology for their educational needs it has only increased the need to modernize organizational online learning as well.
Here’s our list of the top 7 features and functions for online learning in 2017:
- Gamification
Gamification has a huge impact on participation and completion rates. Learners want to be able to earn badges, compete, and see their progress tracked on a scoreboard.
- Human Feedback
The danger of online training is that the learner can feel like they are working in silo. Any online learning technology that allows the learner to interact with a “real person” is going to increase engagement and therefore be more popular.
- Collaboration
Just like receiving feedback from a real human, learners also crave opportunities to collaborate with other learners. Message boards and discussion sections are a must for an online learning technology to be successful.
- Actionable Results
So you’ve has taken your training. Now what? Can you implement what you’ve learned immediately? For the technology to be successful it needs to allow a learner to practice and develop their skills.
- Video Capability
We all have different learning styles, but video has become the preferred method for people to learn, especially online. Video is now the standard.
- Offline Resources
Downloadable documents, videos and other resources that support learning allow learners to stay engaged even when they aren’t connected.
- User Experience
User experience is like a joke… if you have to explain it, it doesn’t work. In no way should technology impair learning, instead it should enhance the experience. The technology must be second nature.
At LearnLoft, we strive to stay ahead of the online learning curve in both our content and technology. Start 2017 by advancing on your leadership journey by visiting LearnLoft or by signing up for our weekly newsletter.
We always welcome feedback, if there’s something that you think we should include on the list, let us know in the comments sections.
