2 Teaching Methods that Move Learning Beyond Technology

By Sarah Thompson

Sarah Thompson
“Good methods combined with good technology will facilitate better learning experiences, and improve information retention.” — Sarah Thompson, principal consultant, Xerox Learning Services

Do you remember the content of your last training lecture? If not, you’re not alone.

Human resources departments and organizations across the globe are working to make content “stickier” by transforming the learning environment, and they’re using an emerging field called “brain science” to do it. Brain science is the branch of neuroscience that offers insights into how the brain learns, and in turn, how learning shapes the brain. Companies can use these insights to understand what motivates human attention, memory, and decision-making functions, and how to achieve optimal learning.

The challenge for HR and learning organizations, though, is to incorporate these insights into learning processes that are meaningful for learners. Advances in mobile, social and cloud technology have conditioned employees to expect an on-demand, consumer-friendly experience, with quick and immediate access to the information they want – whether it’s on a desktop, tablet or mobile device.

Xerox Learning Services

Get more information about Xerox Learning Services on Xerox.com.

Move Learning Beyond Technology

But technology alone is not the solution. Here are two methods that – when applied appropriately, to the right learner, on the right platform – can facilitate a better learning experience and improve information retention.

  • Experiential learning focuses on the learner by delivering smaller, bite-size challenges, and problems to solve – offering a more engaging experience and improving the foundation for learning. I spoke at the ATD International Conference and Exposition in Orlando, Fla., about experiential learning and how to effectively restructure classroom and online learning to ensure better learning happens.
  • Blended learning solutions combine a variety of short-form content using new digital methods for learning delivery. This approach can be effective for meeting the needs of today’s learners by offering more flexibility and control over the time, place and pace at which learning happens. Today, at the Life & Sciences Trainers and Educators Network Conference in Phoenix,  I will discuss how to implement new technologies and techniques that can increase learning engagement and effectiveness, and transform how learning content is offered.

Xerox recently updated its own workplace learning experience with the newly launched Xerox Services University. The goal of the solution was to implement a framework that would develop competencies for leaders, while ensuring access to high quality content – when and where it’s needed. The result was the development of role-based competencies for more than 140,000 Xerox employees with diverse interests, cultures and professional development goals to improve how they manage their day-to-day work.

The ability to identify the right information and framework in which training and education fit, combined with the platform that allows us to serve up content in the right way and at the right time, continues to help Xerox enhance our people’s skill sets and develop leadership capabilities across the globe.

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One Comment

  1. Mamie Kennedy June 10, 2015 -

    Very interesting…

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