Audio Killed The LMS Star?

Lewis Carr asks whether podcasts could replace your learning platform.

As e-learning professionals, we’re always looking for the next big thing. But what if the next big thing isn’t big at all? Enter the humble podcast – those cleverly curated audio nuggets that just might be the secret sauce your learning strategy needs. Let’s explore why short podcast episodes could give traditional e-learning courses a run for their money.

The Rise of Micro-learning

Yes, we’re still living in the age of microlearning. Research by Bersin by Deloitte found that the average employee only has 1% of their workweek to focus on training and development. That’s just 24 minutes a week, folks! Short podcast episodes fit perfectly into this micro-learning model, offering shorter chunks of information that can be listened to on the go.

Now, you might be thinking, “But what about all those fancy visuals in my e-learning course?” Well, here’s the kicker – sometimes, less is more. A study by Emma Rodero in the Journal of the Audio Engineering Society found that audio content stimulates mental imagery more than visual media, leading to higher levels of attention and engagement. So, by stripping away the visuals, we might actually be helping our learners focus better on the content.

Don’t get me wrong; I’m not saying that all courses should be audio files, but we need to consider how to use audio more effectively. Podcasts could support the learning already taking place in the course, either to stretch and challenge learners looking for more content or for summaries, recaps, and revision materials.

One of the biggest advantages of podcast learning is its flexibility. Unlike traditional e-learning courses that often require a computer and internet connection, podcasts can be downloaded and listened to anywhere, anytime. This aligns with the principles of mobile learning. We can untether the learner from the LMS for a short period of time and present the learning in a different way.

The Serial Effect

Remember the podcast “Serial” that had everyone hooked? Well, if you don’t, it was a very popular and addictive true crime podcast, presented in short episodes, leaving listeners hungry for more. There’s a psychological principle at play here called the “Zeigarnik Effect,” which suggests that people remember uncompleted or interrupted tasks better than completed ones. By breaking content into short, serial episodes, we can leverage this effect to improve retention and keep learners coming back for more.

The drawbacks of podcasts and finding the right balance

Of course, podcasts aren’t ideal for all types of content. They lack visual demonstrations, which can be crucial for certain topics. They also don’t offer interactive elements or assessments, which are often key components of e-learning courses. But it doesn’t have to be an either/or situation. The most effective learning strategies often employ a mix of methods.

While traditional e-learning courses on LMS platforms still have their place, the humble podcast offers a compelling alternative for many learning scenarios.

So, next time you’re planning your learning strategy, remember to consider the power of the podcast; the goal isn’t to replace your LMS entirely but to expand your learning ecosystem.