In this blog we're looking into what adaptive learning means, how it can benefit L&D teams, and how you can implement it.

If this is the first time you're hearing about adaptive learning, here's a quick definition...

What does adaptive learning mean?

In general, adaptive learning means tailoring learning to fit the individual needs of each learner.

In reference to learning tech, adaptive learning refers to the use of technology (such as algorithms and artificial intelligence) to curate learning.

This means that each learner’s experience with an adaptive learning program will be different, as the system changes depending on a multitude of factors. These include: what the learner has interacted with before, what people in their network interact with and what kind of learning is being issued by admins.

Not all adaptive learning systems are the same, and each system puts a different weight on things like interactivity, completions, and content tagging. In a similar way to how different social media platforms promote content differently, adaptive learning can be tailored to achieve different results.

Perhaps you want to promote more compliance content, show users more of what they interact with, or broaden horizons by showing people things they may not be finding by themselves.

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How can adaptive learning help L&D and end users?

It’s no secret that personalisation helps increase retention of any piece of technology, and learning tech is no different. By implementing adaptive learning through technology, L&D teams can create an engaging and personalised experience at scale for a wide base of users. This means that L&D can effectively upskill and train their learners - even if they are based all around the world.

For users, adaptive learning helps people discover new learning materials, learn new skills and form connections in areas of business they may want to pursue.

A large part of adaptive learning for end users is that it makes learning fun again, and creates a continuous learning process. Rather than having to just complete mandatory training each time it comes up, users are constantly recommended new learning materials and pathways, allowing them to take control of their learning journey.

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How does adaptive learning work?

So how does adaptive learning work, and how do you use it?

At scale, you’re going to need some learning tech to really instil adaptive learning, especially if your learners are situated in different countries. Features like Thrive’s recommendation feature are a great way to adapt learning for users in a continual and sustainable way.

For those who are looking to switch vendors or are currently in the process of picking a new vendor, make sure you are asking questions around continuous learning for your users and ask yourself: is each user going to get a unique experience with this software? If the answer is no, you are probably going to see bored users, high drop off rates and a lack of general interest in your platform.

If you want to see how Thrive can help tailor experiences for your users while creating a social learning culture and give L&D teams a way to track their skills, then get in contact with our amazing team today!

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