The e-learning industry is expected to increase by 900% since 2000 and reach $325 billion by 2024. This is also scarcely shocking. Corporate e-learning uses 90% less energy, takes 40–60% less time, and emits 85% less CO2 per student than conventional classroom instruction. These are all critical factors for firms that care about the environment and want to be efficient.

The e-learning industry is expanding due to breakthroughs and significant changes in the creation, use, and consumption of training materials and growing demand. In light of this, we will examine many significant e-learning software developments that will likely become more prevalent in 2024.

More individualized instruction

Studying at one’s own pace is a significant advantage of online education. Up until now, students have been instructed in the same manner. We anticipate increased customization in e-learning programs by 2024, allowing staff members to customize their educational experiences to meet their unique learning objectives, preferences, and styles.

To enable learners to advance at their own pace, e-learning software development providers will use big data and data analytics to provide personalized learning pathways, course suggestions, and assessment formats. Teachers and assessors can use adaptive technology to monitor students’ progress and provide prompt interventions and assistance to improve learning results.

Machine learning algorithms will also recognize each student’s unique requirements and provide tailored suggestions for instructional material and delivery strategies. This guarantees the information is relevant, suitable, and tailored to each person’s learning preferences.

The use of games

Gamification incorporates game-playing components into other domains, such as e-learning, to inspire users and promote engagement. By including features like leaderboards, point scoring, and peer rivalry, gamification makes learning more enjoyable and gives users an incredible feeling of accomplishment. Research indicates that incorporating gamification into e-learning software might increase dopamine and serotonin levels, leading individuals to link learning with positive emotions.

E-learning software providers might employ assessment scores, completion, and participation rates to increase engagement. They may improve these components in response to user and data-driven input. The language learning app Duolingo, which lets users earn accomplishment badges, create streaks, and move up the league ladder on the scoreboard, is among the most remarkable instances of gamification in e-learning software development.

In 2024, we anticipate seeing additional gamification components that mimic actual events. This will be especially useful for skills-based training, allowing students to apply their newly acquired knowledge in interactive simulations and virtual worlds.

Small-scale education

Microlearning provides learners with brief, readily digestible knowledge in short bursts. Busy professionals with limited time would benefit significantly from bite-sized training. Additionally, they may be eaten while on the road and provided via portable devices (mobile e-learning software).

Young learners’ attention spans are shorter, and microlearning helps them. Generation Z and Millennials choose microlearning over extended programs. Enhancing information transmission and retention is another benefit.

Microlearning providers need to consider how information is delivered and designed. Interactive modules that require active participation, such as fast movies, infographics, podcasts, tests, and anything else that lets the user quickly absorb specific information, might be helpful.

Micro-credentials, short courses that result in certificates, are also popular. They provide certificates for successfully acquiring various competencies and skills. They support validating critical occupational skills and are even accepted by specific colleges as a respectable substitute for degree programs.

Machine learning

While not a novelty, artificial intelligence helps develop e-learning software. According to a 2022 poll, 71% of institutions agreed that AI increases efficiency, and 75% of respondents indicated that AI deployment improved student outcomes.

We anticipate a steady stream of inventions in 2024 that will change the game. AI-driven assessment questions will enable enterprises to create exams faster.

Knowledge assessments are conducted throughout the course to keep students engaged and pinpoint areas where they fall behind.

Predictive analysis uses historical data to identify skill gaps ahead of time, enhancing learning outcomes and allowing firms to focus training efforts there.

AI may also handle a large portion of administration. It may assist with high-level duties like grading assignments, organizing courses, creating learning goals, and giving feedback, as well as manual operations like maintaining permissions and attendance checks. This gives teachers more time to develop curricula and work with students.

Learning on the go

Our “always on” mindset and smartphones and tablets make transitioning to smaller displays for e-learning software unavoidable. Mobile learning adds flexibility to the process and makes it easier for students to fit it around their other obligations. This enables them to access educational programs whenever and from anywhere.

Mobile learning has also increased microlearning accessibility, allowing individuals to consume knowledge in short bursts of five minutes or less. Since 68% of respondents indicate they prefer digital information on smartphones and tablets, mobile learning often takes advantage of the trend toward smaller displays. Additionally, studies show that students who use mobile devices for education finish their courses faster.

Modifications to assessment

Multiple-choice tests are often used to evaluate students’ progress in online courses. Although quizzes may provide a helpful overview, they still need improvement in gauging comprehension levels and highlighting knowledge gaps. By 2024, a broader range of assessment methods will apply to professional training.

Performance-based evaluations are appearing more often. They require students to demonstrate their abilities using augmented and virtual reality to solve “real-world” issues in practice. In addition to assessing practical comprehension, this evaluation highlights soft skills like creativity, problem-solving, and critical thinking.

Additionally, adaptive assessment features will increase as teachers use artificial intelligence to customize exam formats and help students pinpoint areas for development. AI algorithms may also evaluate learners’ performance in real-time and provide immediate feedback to help learners better comprehend their progress.