The emerging technological innovations have certainly revolutionized the way learning is traditionally conducted. With the introduction of elearning and now, mobile learning, new trends are emerging in the market that can positively impact both young and adult learners.

Mobile learning or M-Learning refers to learning and accessing content in a variety of formats across multiple devices. It is quickly gaining popularity as it is cost effective,portable and allows for greater immersion and  interaction with the content.

Given below are some of the m-learning trends to adopt in 2021 –

1. Corporate Training:

Digitization of training within the corporate sector has become popular, especially in the current pandemic situation, with more people opting to work from home. M-Learning is highly effective in consolidating the content in a simple, clear and interactive manner which makes it easier for the information to be retained. It also allows flexibility, where the learners can set their own pace and choose the module they would like to complete first. Hence, a large percentage of companies are now utilizing mobile learning to train their employees and are seeing greater engagement, greater reviewing of completed courses and better completion results.

2. Collaborative Learning:

Learning is no longer an isolated activity. Most m-learning platforms are integrated to an app which is connected to different social media, where people can form groups and communities to enhance their learning experience. There are also open forums, where they can post their queries, share their experience and provide feedback on the course. This method of social learning positively impacts the learner as it allows them greater interaction with others and broadens their perspective on a particular content

3. Interactive Learning: 

M-learning provides an interactive and immersive learning experience using various strategies like gamified learning, virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), etc. Instructional videos are also a popular feature of interactive learning modules. These techniques are especially used in fields of education, travel, real estate, fitness, healthcare ,etc. to provide for a tangible, rich sensory learning experience. Many learners prefer the gamified version of a content as it engages them, enables higher participation and retention and also allows for instant feedback

4. Personalization of learning experience:

Psychology proves that every individual assimilates knowledge in a different way and at a different pace. While traditional learning could not cater to this aspect, mobile learning allows for a personalization of the learning experience. Modules can now be created according to the proficiency and interests of the learner and they can set their own pace and choose their own learning path. It also allows people to utilize push notifications and update their app content easily. 

5. Microlearning:

Microlearning or small ‘bit-sized chunks’ of learning is gaining popularity among people. In our current, fast-paced reality, it becomes difficult to digest lengthy written content. Microlearning tailors that into smaller sections and utilizes videos, podcasts, infographics and other such media to convey it in a more appealing and interactive manner. Mobile learning leverages microlearning to enhance the learner’s experience by curating content and also allowing space for reinforcing the learning. 

6. Soft-Skills training:

People are recognising that formal, instructional training is not enough when it comes to the overall personality development of an individual. More organizations are acknowledging the importance of giving soft-skills training on communication, leadership, collaboration etc to their employees. Mobile learning is a great tool to enhance the learner’s  performance and bring about a behavioural change in them. It especially encourages self-directed learning which can greatly benefit the individual by informing, challenging and changing their perspective on a particular content.

7. Data-Driven learning:

Today’s society is largely influenced by data and statistics, which is now being recognised as an important part of the learning and development industry. Understanding data and designing courses based on them enriches the content and meets the learner’s individual needs. Data can also be utilized to track the learning progress of an individual and to analyze if a particular innovation has enhanced the overall learning experience. It can also give a fair idea of the demography of the learners and can assist the designers in creating content accordingly.

Thus, these M-Learning trends help in creating a rich culture of continued learning experience and should definitely be adopted in 2021