Workplace Learning

What is workplace learning?

Workplace learning is education that takes place at work. It can include both informal, on-the-job training and formal, organized workforce education programs. 

Example: Our office offers workplace learning opportunities that help facilitate career growth. For example, in my first year, I participated in a coding bootcamp that helped me improve my skills on the job. 

What are the benefits of workplace learning?

When organized strategically to achieve measurable and tangible outcomes, workplace learning can have a variety of advantages for both employees and employers. These benefits an include improved employee skills, greater career growth opportunities, greater job satisfaction and company loyalty, higher levels of employee retention, improved talent acquisition, and compliance with local rules and regulations

Types of workplace learning

Within a single workplace, there can be numerous different types of learning opportunities. Many may be centered around employee skills development, targeting new skills that may be useful on the job. They can also be focused on talent development, deepening employees’ existing skills and knowledge—for example, technical skills training for developers or sales training for account managers. These programs may even be focused on soft skills training to improve skills like collaboration and communication.

Onboarding training is another key type of workplace learning that allows employees in a new role to become confident and comfortable with their responsibilities and team. Skill building opportunities around leadership development can also be helpful to create strong managers, foster healthy team dynamics, and achieve company goals. Finally, compliance training is an essential type of workplace training that teaches employees about the laws, rules, and regulations around their work.

Best practices for modern workplace learning

To create a successful workplace learning program, approach learning holistically and from a variety of angles. Foster a culture of lifelong learning by building in opportunities for continuous learning among employees. Strengthen your learning culture by allowing team members to prioritize their own learning—for example, choosing the courses that matter most to their own career vision and completing courses during work hours.

Invest in your learning team, whether or not you have a formal Learning and Development team with a Chief Learning Officer. Leverage the right tools and technologies, such as course authoring software and a learning management system, to create and distribute your training and facilitate online learning.