The e-learning industry has experienced steady growth over the past several years. In fact, the industry is anticipated to exceed a staggering $275 billion by 2022. This upward trend is clearly reflected in the fact that more than 77% of U.S. businesses offer online training for their employees to continue developing professionally.

As with every industry, new technologies and advancements means the landscape is dramatically changing. Upcoming transformations are not merely the result of new tech, as increased consumer adoptions and demands are equally forceful in fueling the evolution.

In 2018 and the next couple of years that follow, e-learning trends will shift, putting greater emphasis on bolstering skills like managerial competency and leadership prowess, problem-solving proficiency, adaptability, and communication capabilities.

Along with the content shift comes changes to the arena’s tools, technologies, and modalities. Some of the alterations shared here are new and revolutionary, while others are old staples that have grown stronger and more innovative.

If you want to keep up with the impending tide and know what to expect for the niche moving forward, here are 6 e-learning trends you must be mindful of in 2018 and beyond.

#1: Well-Made Webinars Hold Strong

Webinars will continue to be a mainstay in the e-learning sector for the foreseeable future. This is largely because the format is convenient and customizable, catering to the individual needs of attendants more than largescale classes or conferences.

What continues to drive the proliferation of webinars (beyond the aforementioned points) is that it provides attendees with real-time interactions (more on this later) and powerful information from experts.

This means that webinars that take the form of digital workshops, seminars, and guest panels – which should all feature multiple authorities – will continue to grow in prominence.

This is what makes obtaining a proper webinar software platform necessity in today’s era of e-learning. Such systems give hosts the ability to deliver events in a professional, branded environment where moderators can easily switch screens between presenters, accommodate on-screen content, and enables participants to utilize interactive chatrooms that enhance the experience.

Speaking of interactivity. . .

#2: Interactive Videos are On the Rise

Video content continues to be as popular and powerful as ever. There is, however, a significant problem with this kind of content: It is typically dolled out in sizeable chunks that most people forget about 60 seconds after watching.

One way that delivery method is getting altered (with a second coming up shortly) is that organizations and solopreneurs are injecting interactive elements into their video content such as regular question breaks that quiz participants on what they have learned so far.

According to psychology, mental retrieval of information greatly enhances learning. Conversation has a similar impact on memory formation, which justifies the existence of chat rooms within these types of learning environments.

In a nutshell, the interactivity of e-learning modules is set to skyrocket as this is far more valuable for consumers than a passive learning experience.

#3: More Microlearning Sessions

Similar to how video content is beginning to integrate more questions to enhance interactivity and learning potential, microlearning is a concept that has already gained steam, with more to come in the years that follow.

Microlearning sessions are stellar for delivering objective-specific, bite-sized bits of content that can increase productivity through quick learning, regular refreshers, and simple tracking.

These modules typically take the form of short video clips that include interactive elements like short quizzes, games, or questions. Webinars can easily be chopped up to create this type of content (starting to see how all this ties together?).

Microlearning modules are at their most powerful when delivered “just-in-time” to address a new stage of development or to answer questions individuals might have about a certain task.

#4: Appreciation for Personalization

When it comes to learning, one size most certainly doesn’t fit all. Because of this fact, learning personalization will see a dramatic lift in 2018.

Utilizing tools such as surveys or polls, entrepreneurs and other course providers can develop various e-learning packages geared toward the individual’s existing proficiency and knowledge at various stages of their personal or professional development.

Additionally, courses can implement interim check-ins with “students” to determine if they should be redirected to a different module/course or carry on their current path.

#5: Social Learning Experiences

Humans are social creatures by nature. So, is it any surprise that research has demonstrated that people learn more successfully in group settings?

While the exact reason for this phenomenon is unclear, it’s likely linked to a reduction in feelings of isolation and increases the exchange of acquired knowledge within a diverse group.

At this point, social learning is an underutilized modality within most online courses. Through the simple implementation of discussion forums, chatroom functionality, collaborative documents, and similar features that mimic social media (likes, comments, shares, etc.), solopreneurs and organizations alike can foster a more productive and engaging online learning experience.

#6: Great Gamification

Along with being naturally social, humans are innately playful; its hardwired into us. That means that gamification is a stellar means to improve learner performance; and one that will catch fire in the e-learning industry in the years to come.

Some of the reasons that gamification improves learning is that it makes the experience more engaging while also helping to release dopamine in the brain, which boosts learning potential.

The introduction of gamified systems into entrepreneur-led e-learning courses is likely to be one of the next big waves that hits the industry.

E-learning continues to grow in prominence and popularity thanks to all that it has to offer consumers: Convenience, social interaction, knowledge acquisition, and more, all at an affordable rate.

The next few years promise to facilitate massive growth as courses become more interactive, personalized, engaging, and digestible. If you want to be a revolutionary, merge some or all of the trends above into your online course material now, and reap the benefits of innovative education.