How do we engage the modern learner? This loaded question generates answers ranging from design, delivery, implementation, learning environment consideration. Those are all legitimate answers! Each aspect of the modern learning experience deserve consideration, if we want to get modern learners excited about the prospect of professional development.

Obviously, we want to incorporate the most impactful elements into our training programs. In thinking about the evolution of learning, and how humans generally learn, two factors stand out: collaboration and community.

Practitioners and experts alike believe that modern learning is blended learning. Gone are the days where events, job aids, or resources stand alone. Ideally, we strive to create learning ecosystems that support our learners whenever they have a moment of need, whether it’s in the classroom or back on the job.

Fundamentally, informal learning constitutes a critical part of every blend. And while many learning professionals understand its value, we’re struggling to gain support from our learners and stakeholders. Try one (or all!) of these three options to more purposefully include informal elements in your modern blended learning.