Learning 2.0 in Corporate Training

The Use of Learning 2.0 in Corporate Training

Is Learning 2.0 really in demand in the corporate workplace?  At Clarity Consultants, we're seeing an increase in requests for consultants with experience in Learning 2.0:

• A recent request required a consultant "to provide ideas on building communities of practice and social learning networks within a company's organization."
• Another recent request required a consultant who could advise on "how to use social learning to create a culture change on workplace values."

Although Learning 2.0 may not replace traditional classroom training, Learning 2.0 applications are increasingly being used to support existing programs.  According to a 2008 survey from the eLearning Guild, 70% of survey respondents plan to apply Learning 2.0 approaches to their learning endeavors in the next year.  Among members who have already made significant use of Learning 2.0 approaches, 61% report improved learner/user performance.

Thanks to advances in learning technology, Learning 2.0 methods will increasingly be used in corporate training.  In an era of budget cuts, corporate training that minimizes costs (such as travel expenses) and maximizes efficiencies will rule the day. 

In an era of cost containment, informal learning through podcasts and wikis may not only be in vogue, but may also be the method needed to achieve learning goals.

What is Learning 2.0?
Learning 2.0 is built around collaborative online environments.  This learning method focuses on educating through the use of social networks and tools, including blogs, wikis, podcasts, videos, twitter, virtual worlds, mobile learning (mLearning) and other modes.

Learning 2.0 connects people in a useful, meaningful way that is informal and collaborative.  Discussions can allow people to learn from each other on an "as needed" basis and can improve people's ability to share efficient work practices.

Using the tools of Learning 2.0, work groups can become learning communities.  The participation and trust that already exists in work groups can foster online collaboration within the community.  These online interactions allow workers to share knowledge within a specific community and allow users to correct data or misinformation in real time. 

In terms of training design and development, networking through social media can also increase collaboration between instructional designers and subject matter experts, which can result in an improved work product.

How will Learning 2.0 affect corporate learning?
This trend of collaborative online learning will not replace traditional learning.  Organizations will continue to use instructional designers, technical writers, project managers and facilitators to execute training programs.  However, the use of Learning 2.0 as an instructional method will continue to grow in use, particularly in large, dynamic organizations.

Have you already done this?  Probably.
Social learning is increasingly common in both business and non-business settings.  Communities can vary and may focus on areas of interest, socializing or a particular role.  You may have used social networking media without even thinking about it.  Do you express your opinions in a blog?  Have you downloaded a podcast to your iPod?  Do you use "Twitter"?   If so, then you have already been using social networks. 

Many L&D consultants have designed aspects of Learning 2.0 into their professional work.  If this is the case for you, it is smart to advertise that fact on your resume.

For Learning 2.0, what will companies look for on a resume?
Collaborative online learning through social media can occur through multiple channels.  On a resume, companies are looking for key phrases that signify experience in any of those channels.

When describing your experience in Learning 2.0, state the project and describe the process used to achieve learning goals.  Describe the work using the following key words, as appropriate:

We want to hear from you
Have you seen increased demand for Learning 2.0 skills?  Please let us know.  The more information we hear from L&D consultants in the field, the more we can share news on trends in the workplace for corporate Learning and Development. 

If you are currently using Learning 2.0 methods in your work, we'd like to hear from you.  We anticipate increased requests for consultants in this area.  If you have experience in Learning 2.0, be sure to include related keywords as listed above in your resume.  When you've updated your resume, be sure to send it to us so that you can be considered for assignments in this growing area of corporate Learning and Development.

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