The Rise of eLearning in Modern Training Programs
Embracing Digital Transformation in Learning
We are no longer in the time with dial-up internet, Tamagotchi's, or flip phones. Welcome to the digital era. The evolution of technology has not only benefited personal use, but it has also advanced eLearning. In 2015, during the resurgence of Star Wars, the eLearning market was valued at $109 billion, which equated to about $340 per person in the US. Fast forward to 2025, and it is projected to reach a staggering $325 billion, approximately $1,000 per person in the US, according to Research and Markets. That is an increase of over $200 billion (approximately $620 per person in the US) - George Lucas would wish to see that kind of growth. The COVID-19 pandemic has not only brought about changes in the contemporary world but has also accelerated the need for eLearning. This has pushed many organizations to shift to online platforms to adjust. Let’s explore how eLearning has evolved and the impact it has had on training programs worldwide.
Understanding eLearning
What’s eLearning all about? It’s about using electronic technologies to access educational content outside a traditional classroom. These could be online courses, programs, or even degrees and certifications. eLearning has found its home in various markets and industries including colleges, LinkedIn, healthcare, retail, and construction.
Advantages of eLearning
Accessibility: eLearning makes education accessible, especially in remote areas. During the COVID-19 pandemic, UNESCO’s Global Education Coalition provided remote learning to over 1.5 billion learners worldwide.
Scalability: With eLearning, you can roll out programs to countless participants without extra costs. Take IBM, for example. Their eLearning program saved them around $200 million by training employees worldwide—no need for physical classrooms or travel expenses like hotels, teachers, or meal plans.
Cost-effectiveness: eLearning slashes the need for physical materials and facilities, saving tons of money. A study by the Brandon Hall Group found that eLearning usually requires 40-60% less employee time than traditional classroom training and can cut training costs by up to 70%. Talk about getting more bang for your buck!
Challenges and Solutions
Engagement Issues: Online courses can sometimes be a bit of a snooze fest, which was a real problem during the beginning of the pandemic in schools and colleges. Adding interactive elements such as quizzes, discussion boards, and multimedia features has been a lifesaver for remote learners. Studies show that gamification elements in eLearning can increase engagement rates significantly and improve knowledge retention.
Technology Gaps: Not everyone has equal access to technology. In 2021, around 37% of the world’s population still lacked internet access. Initiatives like Google’s Project Loon and Microsoft’s Airband Initiative aim to bridge this gap. As of 2024, that number is down to about 31%, but there’s still work to do.
Realizing the Unboxed Vision
As eLearning continues to grow, it’s making learning more accessible and adaptable for a diverse global audience. Ready to take your training to the next level? Partner with our consulting team to create a strategic learning program tailored to your needs. We offer custom content that looks and feels like your organization, plus immersive simulations to drive desired behaviors and measurement strategies to ensure learning hits the mark.
