Learning Revolution

First generation eLearning led to the proliferation of web enabled classroom learning. First generation eLearning is typically organized around structured learning materials prepared by the instructor or instructional designer and disseminated via the web. Traditional learning management systems track the progress of learners and provide a score upon completion. This allows instructors to see their success as a teacher. Most of the time, however, learners are not able to apply the majority of the content to their job environment.

Limitations of online classroom learning models include:

• Limited content supplied by the instructor
• Content is mainly linear and can only be disseminated in one direction
• A lack of time to complete the classroom or online learning course
• Slow content development and update cycles
• Limited shelf-life
• Limited application to the learner’s job environment – since content is compiled tightly into an online course, it is difficult to find the exact content needed at the right time

  Informal learning is not new. In fact, more than 80 percent of learning is informal – for example, ‘water cooler’ or hallway conversations during which knowledge or idea exchange may occur. What is new is the proliferation of what is now being described as Web 2.0 technologies and tools that facilitate and promote social networking, informal learning, and collaborative knowledge sharing.

  Attributes of informal learning include:

• Informal learning promotes collaboration from all participants – facilitators and learners
• Informal learning is self-directed and self-organized – it’s not hierarchical and not centrally controlled
• Informal learning is driven by learners or participants. It taps into the collective intelligence of everyone involved
• Informal learning, in contrast with event-based training/classroom learning, is ongoing and constantly evolving
• Informal learning is non-linear and encourages new nodes of information to be linked
• As a part of informal learning, rapid content development can match business process requirements. Multiple contributors can edit or adjust the content and corrections can be made at a moment’s notice

  Examples of Web 2.0 enabled informal learning include:

• Blogs can be used to rapidly disseminate knowledge about a product
• Wikis can be used to collaboratively document business processes
• Collaborative tagging can help users to search content such as customer service scenarios
• Collaborative bookmarks can be used to gather research data

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