Technology developments are defining the future of corporate language training. Leverage it in the right way, and you’ll have the power to enhance professional development opportunities, personalize learning and boost business outcomes.

So what trends should you keep track of? These days, merely having an app or offering a few videos isn’t enough. Instead, search for cutting-edge digital platforms featuring some or all of the following elements.

1. Artificial intelligence (AI)

AI is opening up numerous possibilities when it comes to corporate learning. For example, it can automate certain processes to streamline the user experience and boost productivity. And it can identify engaging content for each individual, providing a personalized learning experience. 

For AI to deliver results, it needs access to enough data. At The Language Grid, we’ve refined our English language training platform by analyzing data from thousands of professionals. This means we can more effectively tailor the student experience and provide insight to underpin your business case.

2. Interactive content 

Interactive e-learning enables students to learn 5 times more material for every hour of training. And by interactive, we don’t just mean multiple choice questions after each module. You need a much higher level of sophistication, with in-depth assessments and compelling video to challenge and motivate learners.

This is central to The Language Grid platform in many ways:

• Content includes elements like timed tasks and detailed quizzes
• We’re one of the rare business English training programs with a 100% digital assessment system, along with sophisticated online progress tracking and real-time benchmarking
• The Grid social network within the platform gives students a way to network and share knowledge
• Video call lessons are central to the program, so you get individual tuition from a native speaker and are held accountable for your training

3. Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR)

VR is a 3D virtual environment which mimics reality (through the use of goggles), while AR enhances reality by providing digital information in addition to what the learner seeing. At present, most applications are for marketing and commercial purposes – but AR and VR are set to have a huge impact on corporate training. According to a Global Mixed Realities Market Analysis, the AR and VR training market will be worth $2.83 billion by 2023.

These technologies are already being used to deliver employee training by brands such as Walmart and Bosch. Walmart, or example, is using VR headsets to train associates in new technology, customer service and compliance. When it comes to language, the future may well include Pokemon Go-style content, where apps provide additional virtual context to real-life situations. Or immersion in a virtual environment, helping students learn vocabulary or practice conversation in life-like situations.

It’s still early days from a research perspective on AR and VR, but it’s one to watch as technology develops.

4. Mobile Learning

In today’s fast-paced world, mobile learning is a prerequisite when considering training providers. 94% of students want to learn at their own pace, and at a time and place that suits them. 

Your training technology needs to sync with the reality of day-to-day business. Content should deliver maximum impact in digestible chunks, so people can make tangible progress when they have 15 minutes en route to a meeting or during their commute.

5. Gamification

According to Gartner, more than 70% of 2,000 major organizations globally have at least one gamified application.

Gamification brings competition and fun into training, driving the engagement essential to successful outcomes. As a result, 67% of students say that a gamified course is more motivated than a traditional one. 

Popular gamification elements for adult learners include progressing to different levels, accumulating points, getting performance feedback, having activity feeds, and competing with peers. One of the most popular features of The Language Grid platform is the leaderboard, which shows in real-time how students measure up against each other in different areas. 

Stay ahead of the curve with The Language Grid

Our digital learning platform has been developed over 5 years and with €800,000 of investment, and we’re continually refining it. Here are examples of current projects:

• Our data tells us social learning is incredibly effective for business and finance professionals, so we’re integrating it further into our offering
• We’re in the process of adding more games to the platform
• A new feature in development is The Briefcase, a digital English toolkit available on mobile and desktop to help professionals master everyday international business scenarios

The future is exciting, and we’re proud to partner with businesses who want to be at the forefront of innovation.   

Zoe Flaherty, Founding Director of The Language Grid

For more information about The Language Grid’s cutting-edge digital learning platform, check out our business English training courses.

Image: © Roberto De Riccardis