Trends To Watch Out For In Online Learning In 2022

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We have witnessed the emergence of online learning as the go-to mode of education and training since the starting months of 2020. Educators and organizations have adapted to eLearning pretty fast, preceding any prior expectations, to help students and employees, respectively, to continue their learning journey. 

The sudden shift in tides is a result of the uncalled-for halt on the traditional learning methods because of the closedown caused by Covid-19. Online learning comes with many added benefits such as flexibility in the learning process, better interactiveness & improved engagement, real-time tracking, effective feedback mechanisms, cost-effectiveness, and the list goes on. 

eLearning is an example of how technology changes and improves our lives. The thing with technology is that it keeps evolving and coming up with new trends faster than one can anticipate. Therefore, eLearning is bound to improve and change with time, and one needs to be aware of the newest and upcoming trends to make the best use of it. 

There are many emerging trends to watch out for in the online learning environment to keep your learning experience relevant and refreshed. In this article, we will discuss some of the most vital trends in eLearning to equip you with the knowledge of what's in store for us. 

1. Webinars and live training are becoming more relevant 

Virtual classrooms are known for the flexibility and ease of access that they provide learners with, but the trends have shown that while ease of access is uncompromisable, live classrooms and live training sessions are gaining popularity even if they take away a bit from the flexibility factor. 

Real-time learning creates a sense of urgency in the learners and thus instills improved focus towards classes and training. With the options of doubt resolution on the spot and improved agility, live learning is gaining popularity and will become a crucial element of the eLearning process in near future. 

2. Personalized learning is becoming a norm 

eLearning through tools like Blackbaud software has introduced the concept of personalization in the learning process. Learners have embraced it with open arms because of the individualized learning outcomes and overall improvement in engagement. But what started as an experiment of sorts is now becoming a norm given its real-world implications. 

Personalized learning helps in removing individual weaknesses, solves personal doubts, helps strengthen what one is good at, and in the process drastically improves how learning is approached. 

3. Learning is increasingly being aided by AI 

Artificial intelligence has seeped into our daily lives in many forms, and learning isn't untouched by it. AI-driven learning tools have eased the process of creating learning modules for educators and trainers. These tools come with enhanced capabilities to analyze learner data and track the learning process in real-time. Automation in grading systems, notification management, survey data compilation, etc., all find the use of AI and machine learning. 

Healthcare and business industries have benefited the most from the inclusion of AI-based learning because it helps fasten repetitive tasks and provides experts to focus on more technical aspects that need human intervention. The trend is only set to gain more prominence as time progresses. 

4. AR and VR are becoming mainstream 

As interactiveness and engagement in the learning process have significantly improved because of online learning, learners expect more of it now. Technologies like AR(augmented reality) and VR(virtual reality) are becoming mainstream, slowly but surely, to further enhance the immersive experience in online learning. 

AR combines real-world elements with superimposed virtual elements to create a digital experience like no other. Whereas VR takes the learner to a completely new digital world. Both the technologies have an unlimited scope, and as they rise in their efficacy, they are sure to make inroads in the learning process. 

5. Improvement in learning analytics and its applications 

Data has always been a valuable commodity, and even the education sector has identified its usefulness of late. Accurate analytics give educators more control over the learning process. As mentioned above, AI and machine learning have made data analytics more efficient and error-free, providing educators and trainers access to the most accurate data on the learner's progress. 

Conclusion 

These are the trends in online learning that will shape the future of education in the upcoming year. You must pay heed to them and prepare yourself accordingly!