All of us have at one time or the other been pressed by the need to refer back to old courses or references. It is normal to forget things over time unless it is constantly applied as a part of the work. With the changing demographics, and the transitioning work culture traditional classroom training has been replaced by self-guided tutorials and knowledge bases that allow learners to concentrate on "nuggets" of information as needed to perform specific tasks and solve problems as they crop up. This is known as Just-In-Time learning.
The foremost reason of using just in-time learning is that it is perfect to deliver performance support. This learning model also opens up the scope for social learning as it often triggers discussions.Just-in-time learning is innovative and groundbreaking, however very often the strategy falls short due to lack of some crucial elements/factors. Here are some quick tips to get the best out of it.
1. Analyze Well
Analyzing and understanding the requirements is often a step that tends to be overlooked. However, with Just-in-time learning and any other type of eLearning the need analysis is pretty critical, as its inclusion and usage often depends on the overall learning strategy. During analysis phase one must try to understand few important aspects like target audience, availability of delivery platforms (LMS, Mobile, etc.), importance of topics, budgets etc. This analysis will help us to create a strong business case.
2. Create a Balance
Just-in-time learning is best to be used in collaboration with formal training as it brings out the best results then. Try to align the Just-in-time learning with formal training and create a balance between those. It should be used to either reinforce the learning or to support the learning through additional information.
3. Convert User Manuals and Job-aids to Just-in-time learning
Training manuals and job-aids are often required on job. Such content is best delivered in form of Just-in-time learning. Not only does this make the task easier, it also reduces the time taken by providing the content at learner’s fingertips on the go (on the device of choice). This can also be used as customer service tool by product based organizations. Such training is good for educating the end users and this in turn reduces their fears. Many a times few key tips, instructions can also be shared through Just in Time learning.
4. Empower the Learners
From providing a quick look into the organization to making them aware of the cultural and ethical aspects, Just-in-time learning fills the bill perfectly. It can be used to build the cultural base of an organization and to empower the learners while doing so.Just-in-time learning can also be used to keep IT and HR up to speed with the latest changes in technology and compliance respectively.
Just-in-time learning as a part of the training strategy can help in customizations and personalization too. Learners can customize their training as required, shuffle between eLearning and just-in-time learning, and reap the benefits of social and collaborative learning.
However, as with anything else just-in-time learning is not always the solution. Sue Goldberg, president of Northeast Training Group Inc. in Chestnut Hill, Mass., says that, “just-in-time learning works only up to a point. Most studies, indicate that instructor-led training is still the best way to learn.”
Just-in-time learning along with eLearning can definitely work as a holistic training package. Wish to learn more about using Just-in-time learning as a part of your organization’s learning strategy? Our learning experts can help you. Get in touch now.
