Learning Needs

L&D or HR professionals in the 2020s have had a fair share of experience with remote and hybrid workforces by now. And to achieve business goals, training these employees is just as important as training those on location.

The adult learning theory, also known as andragogy, discusses how adults differ from children in their learning approach and requirements. First introduced in the 1960s by Malcolm Knowles, the theory has shaped adult learning activities for decades. This theory’s strengths are its simplicity and empathy for adults’ learning, as well as growth and esteem needs.

Cognitive learning is an approach that emphasizes the internal mental processes that take place while learning. These internal mental processes are called “cognitive processes” and include activities like attention, sensation, perception, and memory. In this approach, the learner is an active participant in their learning journey and comes in with a unique set of knowledge, skills, experiences, and mental patterns.

Experienced e-learning professionals agree that digital instructional content incorporates elements of art and design principles. It is just as much about visual and artistic interest to the learner, as it is about acquiring knowledge and skills. Combined with the consumable nature of online learning, it becomes vital for instructional designers (ID) to always consider the aesthetic appeal of courses.

Whether formal or informal, any kind of learning produces a learning curve. The concept has become so well-known that it has found its way into everyday conversational use.

Educational programs are incomplete without learning objectives. They shape the structure of courses, key assessment areas, and learner evaluation. Thus, competent instructional designers and L&D professionals are skilled at transforming curriculums into concise and meaningful targets.

Learning theories have guided L&D for decades. Applying an understanding of how people learn is a central aspect of pedagogy. However, the unique blend of technology and learning that e-learning offers puts it in previously uncharted territory.

Cognitive learning theory (CLT), as we know it today, is a mixture of theories of cognition and learning that developed in the 20th century. The central focus of CLT is on “metacognitive” processes, i.e., thinking about thinking. The study of metacognition breaks down the different cognitive functions the mind performs while processing information. In the context of CLT, the emphasis is on mental processes that occur during learning.

Are you new to eLearning? If so, understanding and following instructional design best practices are crucial to your success. Though there are numerous models in instructional design, start with the basics. This article will help you find out about the different instructional design models.