Learning and Development: Predictions and Trends for 2023

The field of L&D needs to adapt and grow as the world keeps changing quickly. This is important in order to keep up with the demands of the modern workplace. In 2023, new trends and predictions are expected to emerge as the L&D sector develops and innovates. This makes it a fascinating and exciting industry to be working in.

The change to a more agile and dynamic workplace will force organizations focusing their attention on L&D projects. These projects should enable companies in meeting the demands of a new, more agile, and ever-changing working environment.

Here are the most important trends that we expect will impact the learning and development industry this year. Make sure also to check out our free eBook on Modern Learning & Development Strategy by Nick van Dam to see how these trends will influence best practices in L&D strategy.

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

One of the biggest trends in L&D that we expect to see in 2023 is the continued rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning. AI and machine learning are already being used in many organizations. Mostly to help identify, assess and develop talent. But as well to automate processes such as recruiting and onboarding. AI-powered learning platforms are also being used to provide personalized learning experiences. These can help employees stay up to date with the latest skills and knowledge. The sensational launch of OpenAI’s ChatGPT in November 2022 clearly illustrates the disruptive potential of AI toL&D and how we consume information in general.

Organizations are beginning to recognize AI’s power to improve L&D and create more meaningful learning experiences. AI will become more fully integrated into the learning process in the near future. This will  result in more personalized learning possibilities that are individually matched to each employee’s individual requirements and skills.

Virtual Reality (VR)

Virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR) are other important L&D trends which will grow in popularity in 2023. Healthcare, aerospace, and the automotive industry have already adopted this technology, but its promise in the area of learning and development has not yet been completely exploited.

Employees can obtain practical experience in a virtual environment by using VR/AR to design immersive and compelling learning experiences. Additionally, it can imitate actual circumstances and scenarios. This gives workers a fun and interactive approach to learn and hone new abilities.

According to a research report by MarketsandMarkets, the corporate virtual reality market is expected to grow to 20.9 billion USD by 2025 with an annual growth rate of 27.9%.

Microlearning

Since microlearning has been on the rise in the L&D industry for some time, we anticipate its popularity will continue to soar in 2023. Delivering brief, targeted lessons that are adapted to the needs of each individual student is known as microlearning. Microlearning is a terrific approach to make sure that employees keep current with the most recent skills and information. This because it uses bite-sized portions of content that are simple for them to ingest and retain.

By 2023, a sizable number of companies are anticipated to have embraced this strategy. Numerous large corporations, including Microsoft, Google, and IBM, are already utilizing microlearning. By doing so they make sure that their staff have the most recent skills and information.

Gamification

As with microlearning, we anticipate gamification will advance to new heights in 2023. According to ProProfs, gamification is already one of the top 10 must have features companies are asking for in an LMS.  Many businesses are working to make their learning programs more immersive and engaging for staff members. Gamification is the use of game mechanics and game components to engage and encourage staff to learn and grow their skill sets. It can be used to reward workers for accomplishments as well as to motivate them to finish assignments.

Looking for quick and simple ways to add gamification to your company’s learning portfolio? Check out our free eBook on Designing Games for Learning and see how to create simple, and engaging games for your employees.

Hybrid Learning

Another trend that is anticipated to continue gaining traction in the learning and development sector in 2023 is hybrid learning. L&D programs that blend online and in-person learning activities are referred to as hybrid learning. As businesses aim to give their employees more flexible and convenient learning options, hybrid learning is gaining popularity. According to a survey by eLearning Industry in 2021, 60% of companies believe hybrid learning has become the most effective way to train employees after the Pandemic.

The option to customize learning experiences, more effectively scale learning programs and the capacity to simultaneously provide learning sessions to in-person and remote personnel are all advantages of hybrid learning.

Anonymous Learning

We also expect anonymous employee learning to gain traction in the field of learning and development in 2023. Anonymous employee learning refers to L&D  initiatives that allow employees to participate in learning without revealing their identities. This approach can be particularly useful in situations where employees may be hesitant to ask questions, share their thoughts and ideas, or consume learning content due to fear of retribution, criticism, or embarrassment.

Anonymous learning by employees has a number of potential advantages. For instance, it can foster a more welcoming and inclusive learning atmosphere. This because staff members are more willing to participate if they don’t worry about being criticized for their efforts. Employees are more likely to participate in learning activities if they feel supported, Because of this anonymous employee learning can help to promote a culture of continuous learning and development.

Gig-based Learning

Gig-based learning, refers to hiring  freelancers to design and deliver training materials on a project-by-project basis. This approach can be beneficial for organizations because it allows them to bring in specialized expertise and resources on an as-needed basis, rather than hiring full-time employees or committing to long-term contracts with training vendors.

Due to the increased use of technology and the internet gig-based learning is becoming more and more popular. In the coming year, it’s anticipated that the popularity of gig-based learning will increase as businesses look for methods to save costs and increase flexibility in the face of unpredictable economic conditions. It’s projected that by 2023, most businesses would have included gig-based learning in some capacity into their learning and development plans.

Experiential Learning

A shift toward individualized and immersive learning is another trend that is predicted to gain popularity in 2023. Hands-on and holistic experiences have been shown to be more successful in retaining knowledge and skills; they can also make the learning process more engaging and enjoyable for the learners. This tendency is being fueled further by the advent of new technologies such as virtual and augmented reality, VR allows learners to interact with content in more dynamic and realistic ways.

For help creating enriching learning experiences for your employees, check out our free eBook on Experiential Learning with lots of examples of how to use role-playing, simulations, discovery learning, problem solving, and mentoring to engage your employees in hands-on learning.

Social Learning

We anticipate that social and collaborative learning will keep expanding in 2023. Peer-to-peer learning and information sharing will likely receive more attention in L&D. For instance, organizations like GE and Deloitte have put in place social learning platforms that let staff members connect share knowledge and their expertise.

Mobile Learning

Due to its adaptability and ease, mobile learning is another important technology that will thrive in 2023. Mobile learning gives staff members access to educational materials whenever and wherever they need it, making it a wonderful choice for businesses wishing to offer more open and interesting learning opportunities.

The market for mobile learning is expected to continue to grow significantly in the years to come. According to a 2022 report by TBRC Business Research, the mobile learning market is expected to grow at an annual rate of 32% per year until 2026. Mobile learning is gaining popularity among businesses as a part of their learning and development strategy since it provides employees with easy access and flexibility. By 2023, a large percentage of businesses are expected to have implemented mobile learning as a result of this pattern continuing.

Overall, 2023 promises to be another exciting year thanks to the introduction of a number of fresh concepts and technologies that are revolutionizing how businesses approach learning and development. In the upcoming years, a number of trends, including gamification, microlearning, VR/AR, and artificial intelligence (AI), will become more prevalent and assist businesses in providing more individualized and interesting learning opportunities for their staff.

Did you miss out on the biggest learning and development trends last year? Download a free copy of our Top L&D Trends 2022 Report with insight from more than 300 of the world’s most influential L&D leaders.