Top 3 Educational Content Trends in 2024

Remember the learning software from the early 2000s? New and shiny at first, teachers as well as students found them exciting. Often considered to be a unidirectional approach, the engagement levels and learner experiences dipped with time. Fast forward to 2024, eLearning has changed a LOT. With so many changes and technological advancements coming into digital learning, the time is ripe for disruption.

The three major trends we are tracking this year are personalized learning, microlearning, and the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in content development.

• Personalized Learning offers courses tailored to specific needs and learning styles, allowing students to learn at their own pace and comfort.
• Microlearning breaks down courses into small, bite-sized chunks, making information easier to consume in today’s fast-paced world.
• AI is automating and improving content creation, publishing, and consumption.

What is Personalized Learning?

It focuses on what specific learner needs, likes, behaviors, patterns, and interests, and provides recommendations based on their preferences. In a blog published by elmlearning.com, personalized learning is called “The Perfect Blend” of adaptive learning and customized learning.

Example: A recent digital marketing graduate with a keen interest in social media marketing can benefit from personalized learning in multiple ways:

• Customized Learning: They can set skill goals, align their career aspirations with market demands, and choose learning paths that fit their time constraints.
• Adaptive Learning Effect: Platforms can assess their existing knowledge and fill the gaps, ensuring efficient learning and content mastery.
• Timely Feedback: Data analytics can provide quick snapshots of learning progress, allowing for personalized and inclusive adjustments.

How do you create effective personalized learning content?

For educational content creators who want their content to resonate with their learners, here are some tips:

• Use Adaptive Learning Platforms: These platforms adjust content based on individual needs.
• Leverage AI: AI can analyze learning behaviors and recommend relevant content.
• Offer Regular Feedback: Data-driven platforms offer ongoing feedback to assess progress and personalize the learning experience further.

What is Microlearning?

TechTarget defines microlearning as “an educational strategy that focuses on breaking down information into small units.” In a world where people check their phones like nine times an hour these days, learners benefit from consuming information in small, manageable chunks.

Advantages of microlearning

• Better Engagement: Shorter learning sessions result in improved engagement for learners with short attention spans. Completing a lesson provides a sense of accomplishment and motivates further learning.
• Efficient Training: Organizations can train employees without lengthy sessions, accelerating learning and skill development.

How to design effective microlearning modules?

• Focused content: Focus on a single theme and create small lessons around that theme. Avoid overwhelming your learners.
• Compact learning modules: Attention spans today are around 8 seconds, so bite-sized lessons will help keep the learner engaged.
• Use multimedia: Incorporate videos, simulations, and quick quizzes to make the lessons dynamic and enjoyable.
• Provide immediate feedback: Instant feedback allows learners to track their progress and adapt their learning strategies.

Sources:

1. https://elmlearning.com/blog/personalized-learning-vs-adaptive-learning/
2. https://www.wellbrookrecovery.com/post/average-attention-span
3. https://www.elucidat.com/blog/modern-learner-profile-infographic/
4. https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definition/microlearning