Over the past thirty-plus years, we have experienced event-based learning models comprising conferences, seminars, workshops, speakers, and newer versions of events including Webinars. Without technology, students of all types gathered in a room and listened to an “expert,” and perhaps that expert was a teacher, a professor, a consultant, a researcher, or the boss. But when learning is constricted in time, spanning a few contiguous days, a few hours, or a few minutes, knowledge learned is soon lost.
What are the odds that a learner is ready to accept the material presented, is motivated to learn in the modality designed, and is prepared to apply what was just learned? The likelihood that these three elements will all spontaneously occur at a pre-determined date and time is slim to none. Moreover, it is a scientific fact that information learned over a period of time is retained better than information that is learned in one sitting.
Extended learning models, as opposed to event-based learning models, provide a much larger window of opportunity to grow, both personally and professionally.
Research
- 40% percent of training content is transferred immediately following training
- 25% of training content is retained after six months
- 15% of training content is retained after one year
Source: Kenneth Wexley and Gary Latham. Developing and training human resources in organizations.
Is Your Company Prepared?
- Is your training and development comprised mostly of events?
- How can you create an extended learning experience for yourself or for your team?
- What can you do with seminar or workshop content to transform it into an extended learning period?
- How do you learn each and every day?
Quotes to Contemplate
“Curriculum by itself doesn’t provide depth and breadth-you must include self-initiated learning that is self-paced and tied to your needs.”
~Effenus Henderson, Chief Diversity Officer, Weyerhaeuser
“Until people gather their own data and see a disconnect between where they are now, and where they could be-until that click occurs, the best learning tools and workshops will not produce behavioral change.”
~Troy Heflin, VP of Organizational Development, Volvo
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