The Top 10 Learning Trends Right Now!
It all begins with an idea.
I’ve always had an eye for new stuff. I’m easily distracted, you know 😉. Being curious is part of my DNA.
And of course I’m particularly interested in what’s going on in the World of Learning.
Gone are the days of dusty textbooks and dreary lectures. Just about! Learning is becoming much more flexible, engaging, and tailored to you, which is brilliant news for anyone looking to find their voice and boost their true talent.
Here's what's hot right now in the world of learning:
AI-Powered Personalisation: Imagine learning paths created just for you, based on your strengths, weaknesses, and even how you learn best. AI is making this a reality, ditching the 'one size fits all' approach and making learning much more efficient and enjoyable.1 No more wading through stuff you already know!
Example: Platforms like Duolingo (for language learning) use AI to adapt lessons to your pace and proficiency, while corporate learning platforms like Absorb LMS employ AI for personalised content delivery and administrative optimisation.
Microlearning: Bite-Sized Brilliance: Our attention spans seem to be getting shorter, don't they? That's where microlearning comes in. Think short, sharp bursts of information – a quick video, an infographic, a mini-quiz. Perfect for busy schedules and for getting just the knowledge you need, exactly when you need it.
Example: Many platforms, including those like SC Training (formerly EdApp) , are built around microlearning, offering short, mobile-friendly lessons on everything from compliance to new software features. Think quick, snappy videos or interactive flashcards.
Upskilling and Reskilling for the Digital Age: The world is moving fast, and new tech is popping up all the time. Companies and individuals are cottoning on to the fact that continuous upskilling (getting better at what you do) and reskilling (learning completely new skills) are absolutely crucial to stay relevant and competitive.
Example: Organisations like the Good Things Foundation are working to boost essential digital skills for adults, providing pathways for both basic literacy and more advanced tech skills to help people adapt to the evolving job market.
Immersive Learning (VR/AR): Get ready to dive in! Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) are making learning incredibly immersive.2 Imagine practicing a complex surgery in a virtual environment or exploring historical sites without leaving your sofa. It's hands-on learning, but without the real-world risks (or travel costs!).
Example: Immersion VR creates 360-degree VR content for education, allowing students to go on virtual field trips to places like Roche Abbey or even historical monuments, all from the classroom.
Learning in the Flow of Work (featuring LUMA1!): Who's got time to stop everything for training? Not many of us! This trend is all about integrating learning seamlessly into your daily tasks.
Example: This is where our friends at LUMA1 really shine. Their SaaS platform is designed to deliver crucial knowledge, especially around EHS (Environment, Health & Safety) and Standard Operating Procedures, right when it's needed. Imagine a quick video tutorial popping up on your device as you're about to perform a new task, or immediate access to safety briefings via QR codes at a worksite. LUMA1 focuses on interactive, video-based learning with instant translation, making it incredibly easy to share and assure knowledge across your entire business, even for remote teams or contractors.
Soft Skills are King & Queen : While technical skills are vital, employers are increasingly valuing "soft skills" – things like critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and emotional intelligence.4 These are the skills that help you navigate the tricky bits of work and collaborate effectively with others.
Example: Many UK training providers offer specific courses in areas like leadership, active listening, or conflict resolution.5 For instance, Keystone Training provides workshops focused on improving communication and leadership skills, which are crucial soft skills in any workplace.
Gamification: Learning doesn't have to be boring! Gamification sprinkles a bit of fun into the process, using game-like elements such as points, badges, leaderboards, and challenges. It's a great way to boost motivation and keep you engaged.
Example: Platforms like Kahoot! are incredibly popular in schools and workplaces for turning quizzes into engaging, competitive games. For a more in-depth approach, Prodigy Education combines math instruction with RPG-style gameplay, making learning maths an adventure for younger students.
Hybrid Learning Models: With so many of us working in a mix of office and home, hybrid learning is here to stay. It's all about blending different learning formats – online modules, in-person workshops, virtual coaching – to give you the flexibility to learn in a way that suits you best.
Example: FutureLearn, a leading UK-based platform, offers hybrid models that combine online courses from top universities with in-person workshops, allowing for both flexible self-paced learning and collaborative projects.
Continuous Learning Culture: This isn't just about one-off courses. It's about fostering an environment where learning is an ongoing, ingrained part of life and work. Employers are keen to encourage this mindset, as it keeps their teams agile and adaptable.
Example: Companies actively promote a continuous learning culture by offering access to extensive online learning libraries (like those from LinkedIn Learning or Coursera for Business), supporting peer-to-peer learning initiatives, and encouraging regular skills audits and development plans.
Data-Driven Education: Fancy a bit of data? Educators and organisations are using data analytics to understand how people learn, what works best, and where improvements can be made.6 This helps to create even more effective and impactful learning experiences.
Example: Platforms such as Avidator utilise AI-powered analytics to track student progress in subjects like maths, helping tutors and parents identify strengths and weaknesses and then automatically generating customised learning plans.
So there you have it! The world of learning is looking pretty exciting, wouldn't you say? It's all about making education more accessible, personalised, and genuinely enjoyable. So whether you're looking to pick up a new skill or just brush up on old ones, there's never been a better time to get stuck in!
Cheers, and happy learning!