Nobody can go back and start a new beginning, but anyone can start today and make a new ending.
— Maria Robinson
As someone who’s been working in the L&D profession for several years, I can honestly say that I feel incredibly grateful for the opportunity to be a part of this amazing community. I truly believe that there’s no other field quite like L&D, where people are so welcoming and helpful to one another. Whether it’s sharing ideas, offering support, or just lending an ear, there’s always someone out there who’s willing to help. And the best part? The opportunity to connect with L&D pros from all over the world! From attending conferences in New Zealand to making new friends from China, Turkey, Brazil, and beyond, it’s been super cool to meet and talk with such wonderful learning professionals. So here’s to being a part of the L&D community – I feel incredibly lucky to be a part of it!
What are you most grateful for?
As always, thanks for reading.
What I’m Listening To: It is spring break around here and Groove Armada Radio is just the right mix of funkiness and fun.
Last Week’s Most Clicked:
The Better Deck Deck
📰 News & Notes
If learning matters, make it a campaign
The article by Ross Garner argues that learning and development should be treated as a marketing campaign, with clear objectives, target audiences, messaging and tactics. By adopting a campaign mindset, L&D professionals can create a more engaging and impactful learning experience that resonates with learners and drives behavior change. He also offers practical tips and examples to help L&D teams apply campaign principles to their programs, including using data and analytics to measure success, leveraging social media and influencers to amplify the message, and creating personalized content that speaks to the specific needs and interests of different learner segments. More great stuff to #StealFromMarketing
The Magic of Knowing When to Use Concrete vs. Abstract Language
Using concrete language (words that describe tangible things) can make messages more memorable and easier to comprehend, while abstract language (words that describe concepts) can be effective for conveying complex ideas. Knowing when to use each type of language is a valuable communication skill that can improve how effectively you connect with your audience. By using concrete language to clarify instructions and abstract language to convey emotions and values, you can make a lasting impact.
Why Less is More in Learning Design
In this post, Connie Malamed discusses the importance of cognitive load in learning. When learners are presented with too much information at once, their working memory becomes overloaded, and they are unable to effectively process the information, which can lead to poor learning outcomes. She recommends several strategies for reducing cognitive load to create learning experiences that are more effective and enjoyable for learners.
The Multi-Store Memory Model
The multi-store model of memory is a theory of memory that proposes that information is processed in three stages: sensory memory, short-term memory, and long-term memory. Sensory memory is a brief store that holds information from our senses. Short-term memory is a limited-capacity store that holds information for a few seconds. Long-term memory is an unlimited-capacity store that holds information for an indefinite period of time.
The multi-store model of memory has helped us understand how information is processed and stored in the brain. This has led to new teaching methods and learning strategies such as spaced repetition, mnemonic devices, retrieval practice, and elaboration. These strategies can help us learn more effectively.
You Are You, We Live Here, This Is Real Life
In his article, Freddie deBoer argues that people should be more accepting of differences and focus on commonalities to build a sense of community. He suggests that in the current political climate, people are too quick to dismiss others who don’t share their beliefs or experiences, and this leads to division and conflict. Instead, deBoer suggests that people should embrace diversity while recognizing the shared experiences and challenges that unite us as human beings. By doing so, we can create a more harmonious and inclusive society. Does this resonate with you?
Learn from one of the most respected voices in the learning industry, Donald Taylor!
In this upcoming webinar on April 25th, 12PM – 1PM CEST, powered by aNewSpring, Donald H. Taylor will dive deep into the 2023 Global Sentiment Survey (GSS) results. It clues you in on which topics will shape the L&D world in the coming year and what this might mean for you.
Trend catcher, Ger Driesen, will also provide a unique perspective on how the survey results could impact the training provider industry. With this exclusive insight, you’ll be ahead of the curve and ready to adapt to the latest trends. Join the discussion!
Attend the webinar
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🎧 Podcasts
These are the podcasts that caught my ear this week.
🧰 Tech, Tools & Tips
If tools are your jam, check out my new WorkSmarter newsletter
How Password Managers Work and Why You Need to Use One
One password to rule them all.
Kapwing
The collaborative video editor for modern teams.
STORYD
Data presentations leaders love, in seconds.
Loaf
Animated SVG icons you’ll love to use.
iSpring Days
Two days of lectures and workshops given by top industry experts
iSpring Days 2023 is a free online eLearning conference where top industry experts will gather to share best practices and proven solutions that elevate digital learning experiences and result in improved KPIs.
Speakers: Cara North, Holly Owens, Tom McDowall, Patricia Rieger, Clark Aldrich, and others.
Dates: April 27-28
What you’ll learn:
● Boost training metrics & improve your bottom line
● Build effective and engaging scenarios
● Design impactful eLearning programs
● Avoid common course design mistakes
● Choose training goals that align with business objectives
● Increase employee retention
● Overcome hurdles along the road to eLearning success
See you at the conference!
🧳 Where’s Mike?
Microlearning Conference
April 27
Online
Learning & Marketing Conference
June 7-8
Online
Friday Finds is an independent publication that I produce in my free-time. You can support my work by sharing it with the world, booking an advertising spot, or by buying me a coffee.
Mike Taylor 