E-learning Vs Learning Experience Platform

Many companies are prioritizing on-the-job learning over formal pieces of training and traditional schools. As a result, organizations are adopting new learning tools and methods to help people stay competitive and motivated as part of this transformation. 

Now arises the question of which online learning platform is ideal for your organizational requirements. We've broken down the differences between e-learning platforms and learning experience platforms to help you understand the changing landscape and make an informed decision.

What is an e-learning platform?

E-learning, often known as online learning, is the practice of employing digital technologies to deliver comprehensive learning programs. Web-based systems that can be used to give structured learning materials and courses to an unlimited number of users are known as e-learning platforms.

In most situations, E-learning platforms allow for the delivery of static content rather than collaborative learning. These methods allow organizations to communicate and track theoretical knowledge while encouraging individuals to study according to their own time. Popular e-learning platforms include LinkedIn Learning, Coursera, and Pluralsight.

What is a Learning Experience Platform?

A learning experience platform (LXP) is an online platform that allows companies to enhance on-the-job learning along with providing employees with a personalized learning experience.

LXPs are more focused on improving the learners' experience than on managing corporate learning programs from a commercial aspect. However, there is a shift towards continuous learning that involves the engagement of people throughout their learning journey. Many different sorts of platforms fall under the LXP category when it comes to e-learning. 

Let's take a closer look at the main differences between the two, which are as follows:

Difference between E-learning and a social learning platform

Immersive vs. One-directional

Participants are frequently overwhelmed with knowledge via e-learning platforms, yet we frequently forget what we learn unless we take conscious steps to retain it, as demonstrated by the forgetting curve theory. As a result, gathering more and more data becomes a challenge in itself. It is important to preserve knowledge by using the following methods:

Social learning platforms, on the other hand, enable HR and learning & development (L&D) professionals to encourage dialogue and empower learning. Participants are given the freedom to apply what they've learned in the classroom to their employment, allowing them to keep up with the pace.

Peer-to-peer vs. Individual

An e-learning platform is perfect for delivering easy learning programs to those who are driven to complete the course. Using a social learning platform to create a virtual community for more complex learning programs is a great idea. Traditional methods don't help people acquire long-term abilities, but they can make a tremendous improvement when participants interact with one another.

Ongoing vs. one-off

Many companies are trying to shift their in-person training to online due to covid 19. This has given a significant warning for L & D professionals that one-off events don’t have a sustainable impact, which makes full-time learning impossible to schedule.  

Social learning platforms, on the other hand, can be used to encourage employees to embark on personal learning journeys. As part of their learning process, individuals can also engage with relevant people and participate in discussions due to AI.  

Which one to consider?

To summarise, e-learning platforms and social learning platforms (a type of LXP) can be used to achieve the following objectives:

Use an e-learning platform to:

Use a social learning platform to:

Conclusion

To conclude, both online learning platforms can be used at the same time to improve the learning process. Many companies are increasingly using these platforms in addition to social learning platforms. This enables them to provide employees with traditional training programs via an e-learning platform while also establishing an online community with the participants through a social learning platform.

With social learning platforms like Howspace, you can promote peer-to-peer learning and enhance the impact of your business-critical learning programs.

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