Technology for online learning providers: An ultimate guide

Uncover the trends and technologies driving new thinking in the online learning sector.
19 September 2024 · 4 minute read

The desire to learn

Uncover the trends and technologies driving new thinking in the online learning sector.

In Australia, online courses have become very popular. It’s easy to fit into a busy schedule and it's convenient for learners.

Many people want to keep learning new things throughout their lives. So, they’re using online courses and training providers to help them learn new skills. Our recent research supports this. In Telstra’s Ideas for unlocking goliath productivity report [PDF, 473KB] report, it found training is just as important as flexible work. It’s especially valued among younger people. 

  • 55% of employees said employers should provide training to develop new skills.
  • 80% said they want to learn more digital skills to further their career.
  • Supporting this, 40% of SMBs are offering training to develop new skills.

The desire for online learning can help individuals do their jobs better, access new skills or grow their personal development.

 

The trends driving online learning growth

The desire to learn new skills is helping to drive growth in the online learning sector. But there are also other trends. We explore some of these in more detail below.

Learning democratisation

In the online learning market, more people opt for Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs).

Massive open online courses (MOOCs) are a great way to learn new skills. It means participants don't have to spend much money or attend somewhere in person.

Anyone with an internet connection has the opportunity sign up for a MOOC and learn at their own pace. This has helped make learning more accessible to people across the country.

Specialised skills

More specialised online learning is taking place. The courses, classes and certifications are usually relevant to a specific industry or profession.

Remote learning

Australia's vast size means it’s a good idea for those in remote areas to learn online. Not only is it convenient for people, but small businesses can widen their audience too. And not just to people in Australia. Online learning means training can be offered globally.

Thanks to online platforms, people can now learn from leading teachers. This saves having to move or spend hours commuting.

Technology advancements

High-speed business internet and learning management systems (LMS) can help make online learning more accessible.

While video seminars and interactive simulations help make learning more fun and interesting.

Personalisation

New tech like artificial intelligence (AI) can help make learning more personal. These smart systems can change the course content and gather feedback almost instantly. This helps match how each student learns best, what they already know and how far they've come.

 

What makes a successful online learning company?

Growth and profitability are often the ultimate success indicators. But there are factors that help lead towards generating that success.

Offer learning materials that are good, interesting and helpful. This means having well-made courses, up-to-date lesson plans and interactive multimedia resources.

To help succeed, it can help to get participants to work together and achieve collaboration. For example, discussion forums where they can share ideas. Or have conversations about what they're learning. 

Consider group projects, where people can work together to create something. It can also help to introduce peer reviews, where students give each other feedback on their performance or progress.

It can help to be compliant with regulations and have accreditation for courses. This adds to the credibility and trustworthiness of your offerings.

Using different technology tools can help your business succeed when offering online training modules. This includes videos and animations, virtual simulations, online classrooms and data analysis.

 

What technology exists for online learning companies?

To help drive growth, online learning companies are building their technology capabilities. They’re making use of greater features provided by platform suppliers.

But increased capabilities need to match with the ability to deliver them. This is where a fast, reliable business internet connection can be helpful. Below we explore some technology and tools forward-thinking online learning companies are using.

Choosing the right internet plan

How online learning technology is supported is very important. Fast internet might be crucial to help with the smooth running of webinars or online classes. Or so people can access materials they need without interruption. Choosing the right plan will help you connect to the internet with confidence. 

Multimedia content creation 

These tools enable course creators to develop interactive multimedia content. This includes videos, animations, simulations and assessments. This helps provide a more engaging and experience for people.

Data analytics and reporting

Learning analytics platforms can help online training companies understand how students learn. This data can tell them how often students access the course. It might also show how well they’re doing. And what parts of the course they’re struggling with. 

This level of reporting can also help online training companies see how well the course is working. With this information, they can make changes to the course. This helps make it a better experience for participants and can help them learn more.

Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR)

AR and VR technologies can help create immersive learning experiences. Online training companies may develop VR simulations, AR apps, or 360-degree videos. This can help to enhance hands-on training, simulations and experiential learning.

AI and machine learning

AI powered tools and chatbots can help personalise learning pathways. They can also help provide automated feedback and recommend relevant content. Learn more about how to Put AI to work for your business report [PDF, 535KB] in our Tech State of Play report series.

Explore how to choose the right technology solutions for your business.

 

Building greater skillsets

People’s desire to learn and build on their skillset is growing. This offers a big opportunity to online learning providers to help fuel growth and meet that need.

Additionally, technology can also help enhance the online learning experience for people. This can help drive greater satisfaction among participants and increase retention for future training.

By boosting experience, online learning companies can reach more people and achieve better outcomes. This can help set them up for long-term growth.

To learn more about tech trends shaping businesses in industries like training and education, download our Tech State of Play reports. In this series we uncover insights to help propel your business further through technology.

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