Online personalization: the key to engaging the learner

Abstract

Purpose

This paper looks at how personalization can be the key to engaging adult learners in an on‐line learning experience. Adult learners bring a variety of experiences to a learning experience and a “one size fits all” approach can often hinder the success of a programme.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper explores the various ways in which an on‐line learning experience can be personalized for individual adult learners. Programme design and content should provide flexible learning outcomes and respond to the needs of individual learning styles.

Findings

Non‐linearity, variety of content presentation and exercises, removal of barriers to engagement and letting the learner take control of their learning have all proven in the writer's experience to be effective ways of personalizing the learning experience.

Originality/value

This paper will be of interest to all those involved in programme development and the provision of on‐line learning to adult learners. It looks at ways of improving the success of on‐line learning experiences by challenging the “one size fits all” approach.

Citation

Nelson, A. (2008), "Online personalization: the key to engaging the learner", Development and Learning in Organizations, Vol. 22 No. 1, pp. 11-13. https://doi.org/10.1108/14777280810840049