Why Customized Learning Programs Are Future Of E-learning?

“Closing the global skills gap could add $11.5 trillion to global GDP by 2028. Education and training systems need to keep pace with the new demands of labour markets that are continually challenged by technological disruption, demographic change and the evolving nature of work.” This recent statement by the world economic forum threw the spotlight on skilling and upskilling.

We all accept and agree that upskilling is the need of the hour. We also agree that thanks to digitization, we now have access to an unprecedented database of knowledge. But are we really able to realise our learning potential? In this classic case of “water water everywhere, but not a drop to drink”, it’s ironic that the sheer volume of learning content that is available could be hindering our learning potential. We are so focused on the volume of information imparted that we do not really concentrate on retention and engagement. Do we really need to learn all that we have been taught through our school, college and professional lives? If you are someone who had to sit in massive 100-seater lecture halls and listen to well-meaning lectures on topics that did not resonate with your needs, you would say no!

Personalised or customised learning has become a buzzword in new-age learning. This is one of the answers to our learning woes. The concept of personalised learning is in fact not new. Students in the gurukuls of ancient India were taught on a one-on-one basis or at least in small groups. The guru taught each student based on the student’s aptitude and interest. No cookie-cutter training for our ancient geeks! Students who receive personalized instruction outperformed 98 per cent of those who did not. The personalised approach to learning allows the learner to

· Set their own goals

· Select their own learning path

· Select their preferred type of learning- reading, watching, hearing or even collaborating with peers and even finding a mentor

· Learn at their own pace

· Get personalized feedback and use it to assess their progress

This ensures that the learner is as invested in the learning process as the instructor. It motivates the learner to participate more effectively in the learning process. The ability to be involved in goal-setting helps the learners develop motivation and reliability. The self-assessment that’s part of personalised learning helps learners develop self-reflective abilities. Choosing their preferred learning medium helps learners develop self-advocacy skills.

While personalised learning was an ideal solution it was difficult to implement and scale this form of training in the 1980s. However, the advent of AI and machine learning has made this a reality that can be democratised. It is now possible to build algorithms that are aligned to the learner’s individual needs and preferences. And why not? In an age where a user can customise social media feeds and even get personalised versions of a Google search, why can’t learning also be personalised? The future is one where learning will become customised to each individual’s preferences and needs. The day when learning will become a pleasure and not a chore is not far off!

Rohan Krishna

Guest Author The author is the CEO and Co-Founder of Get Me A Course (GMAC) which is an edutech company that provides tailored solutions for learning, mentorship, and employment.