Adaptive learning, which is also found under the terms adaptive learning or adaptive learning, is a technology that makes it possible to offer a tailor-made training course. How to deploy an adaptive journey on an LMS platform?
What is adaptive learning?
With the rise of new technologies, innovations in learning have multiplied, also boosted by the Covid-19 crisis. Distance learning has therefore naturally developed with the appearance of virtual classrooms, video content, 3D...
The objective of training organizations and Digital Learning Manager Is today of offer immersive and individualized experiences, both in person and behind the screen.
An adaptive learning course is adapted to distance learning to provide each individual with evolutionary learning adapted to their level and needs through the use of collected data and concepts from neuroscience. The educational content offered to learners will therefore be unique, adapted to their needs but also to their availability.
Adapting content to user needs
With an adaptive learning path, each learner's modules are adapted automatically and in real time based on various factors:
- The learner profile;
- Its learning goals;
- Its behavior on the LMS;
- Its dynamic of progression;
- The results of other collaborators learning on the same skill.
After collecting and analyzing the data related to the factors mentioned above, the platform LMS can then build a personalized training course, either 100% remote, or in a hybrid format that will combine adaptive learning and Blended Learning. Ultimately, this makes it possible to strengthen learner engagement and improve information retention.
Adaptive Learning and Technologies: The Winning Duo
As we have seen, Adaptive Learning is intrinsically linked to digital technologies, including AI, big data, and machine learning. If we want to go further in micro adaptive learning, three key elements support this continuous revolution: neuroscience, data collection, and machine learning.
Duolingo is the perfect example to illustrate this link between technology and education. This free, AI-powered application is the current reference in gamification and adaptive learning. They revolutionized the language education environment by using one LLM (Large Language Model) powerful and using almost all the levers available.
Adaptive Learning, supported by advanced technologies, is therefore revolutionizing education by offering a personalization of learning and by solving numerous educational challenges, which have long been in the background for technical and budgetary reasons, thanks to AI and machine learning.
Micro vs Macro Adaptive Learning
We can't talk about adaptive learning without talking about Micro and Macro Adaptive Learning, the 2 scales making it possible to better understand the work of data adaptability.
Macro Adaptive Learning
Macro Adaptive Learning adapts to you. The content is module according to your progress. The modules then appear in response to your needs and your performances. Everyone gets the same basic content, but he is uniquely arranged for each learner. This approach is a perfect fit. with long and dense formations.
Micro Adaptive Learning
Here, we're talking about personalization on a much finer level. The contents of modules are adapted to each learner according to their progress and preferences. It's as if you had a virtual trainer who guides you through the material and customizes the questions, making sure you're in control of each step. It is ideal for the rapid acquisition of skills.
It is therefore the most effective personalization, adjusted to each learner action. It adapts in real time to your actions, allows you to skip unnecessary activities and offers you a automated personalized support.
And the disadvantages? We have not identified any on the learner side, which is why we think that micro adaptive learning coupled with AI is one of the fundamental levers of e-learning!
Advantages and disadvantages of Adaptive Learning
Now that you have a better understanding of what Adaptive Learning is, let's summarize all the pros and cons of this approach. Indeed, it offers a multitude of them, going well beyond simply progressing more quickly. There are also always a few small points of friction...
The Benefits of Adaptive Learning
Among its many benefits, we can mention 7:
- Identifying gaps in real time: the rapid detection of gaps in learners' knowledge allows specific remediation to fill the identified gaps. This ensures that learners have a solid foundation before progressing to more advanced concepts.
- Optimization of progress: Anyone can progress at your own pace, hasadjusting the content according to its specific needs. This means that learners move forward when they are ready, maximizing effectiveness.
- One-on-one instruction: The instructions are adapted to the level of knowledge and the mode of assimilation of each. This ensures a more effective learning experience and a better understanding of concepts.
- Improved understanding: In line with the two previous points, the course and content adapted to the needs of each person promotes aDeeper understanding of topics. Learners are more likely to retain and apply the knowledge they have acquired.
- Improving trust: The learners develop their confidence in their skills as they successfully complete specific steps and see their progress. This reinforces their motivation to learn and to achieve their goals.
- Better engagement: Adaptive Learning keeps learners engaged by stimulating them with relevant content and encouraging them to progress. So it also prevents Boredom and dropout frequently encountered in traditional approaches.
- Training with one objective: this learning method makes it possible to set clear and measurable goals. Learners have a clear vision of what they need to achieve, which motivates them to work toward that goal.
In summary, Adaptive Learning goes far beyond accelerating progress. It is an approach holistic educational that maximizes effectiveness, enhances understanding, strengthens engagement, and ensures truly personalized learning.
The Disadvantages of Adaptive Learning
And yes, there are still some gray areas on the board... Adaptive Learning has many advantages, it must be recognized, but there are still a few potential challenges to be addressed to democratize this approach on a larger scale:
- Resistance from some trainers: there is a hesitation on the part of some to change the way they teach because of a lack of training. They fear that modern technology will leave students at the mercy of students. Algorithms.
- Find appropriate resources and solutions: The adoption of Adaptive Learning can be expensive without good prior knowledge and research. Choosing among numerous providers on the market can be risky and creating an Adaptive Learning platform requires specific tools and a substantial budget.
- Processing a large quantity of data: the use of Adaptive Learning involves the analysis of the data generated. Teachers need to be trained to interpreting graphs and information.
- Total dependence on Adaptive Learning: some educators may think that Adaptive Learning completely replace their role, which is not the case. The The role of the teacher remains essential in the design and analysis of the information generated through technology.
- Creating a library: instructors need to create multiple versions to suit different student learning styles, which can be time consuming.
- Stakeholder reaction: the reactions of students, teachers, and parents to Adaptive Learning can influence its adoption. Concerns about the loss of human interaction should be taken into account.
- Lack of trust in Adaptive Learning: to finish, The effectiveness of Adaptive Learning is yet to be proven for some people. Some institutions have invested without a complete understanding of its implementation, creating confusion and limiting adoption.
To overcome these adoption challenges, following a few key principles is essential. It is crucial to take informed decisions by carefully evaluating pros and cons of this approach.
The team responsible for implementing Adaptive Learning should be trained to correctly interpret the results and the data generated by this technology.
It is also recommended to integrate Adaptive Learning in a blended learning strategy, where it complements traditional teaching methods.
Adaptive Learning should not be a one-size-fits-all solution, but a complementary tool that can significantly improve the learning experience by offering this personalization and flexibility.
The choice of a LMS platform (Learning Management System) adapted to Adaptive Learning is therefore essential for effective implementation.
By following these tips, organizations can fully exploit the potential of Adaptive Learning while overcoming the challenges associated with its adoption.
Adaptive Learning and LMS: the winning combination
Choose a Adaptive LMS is essential. Make sure it supports this approach and integrates adaptive tools and platforms. Design courses and adaptive content by defining clear and measurable goals from the start
Engage and motivate learners as well, monitor and evaluate learning, and finally, Continuously improve courses and advanced information.
Also consider levels of adaptability, from the level of the learning object to the level of the course(micro/macro). Focus on learning object and sequence levels to improve the learning experience.
By using these key points, you can set up an environment effectively adaptive in your LMS and encourage a culture of continuous learning within your company, for the happiness of your employees...
The steps for setting up an adaptive learning path
For adaptive learning to be effective, it is essential to collect learner data. This data collection is carried out by an LMS platform, in which the adaptive learning solution is integrated. Next, you need to integrate the following tools into your LMS:
- A virtual coach: this feature makes it possible to support the individual in their journey, in addition to chat tools and forums.
- THEOnboarding : these assessment tests make it possible to direct learners to the appropriate modules.
- The automatic assignment of modules: thanks to data analysis, learners will be offered modules adapted to their profile, their needs ofprofessional development and their job. These courses will be available when connected to the LMS and each employee will be able to register to follow those that interest them.
- Management of questions: On an LMS, a trainer has the ability to create questions and link them to the skills that learners want to develop. When designing an assessment, all he has to do is select the skills to be assessed and the LMS will automatically search the list of questions.
The creation of an adaptive learning course thus meets the needs of companies and learners, with the possibility of setting up a tailor-made training course. However, be careful to choose the LMS carefully and to check that they have the functionalities necessary to set up an adaptive learning path.
