Just-In-Time Learning 2011

As I look back on 2010 and at the new requests we're getting this year, I see a trend toward "extreme blended-learning."  I've made this term up because I'm seeing the first glimmering of learning that leans on a variety of media -- especially social media and just-in-time learning.  Large chunks of training are still delivered in the classroom or through WBT.  Reinforcement of training, training transfer, and self-paced training are going on all the time through both e-learning and m-learning. Most of the time, it isn't thought of as training at all.  It's using the tools at hand to look stuff up.

For example, over the holidays I couldn't find my recipe for microwave peanut brittle.  I found one through Google that worked great (e-learning).  I also used Google to learn what types of bike racks are available, how to put the rack on the car, and the bike on the rack.  I use my iPhone apps to find addresses and phone numbers (m-learning).  I read you can calculate your blood alcohol level with an app.  I learn through blogs and online discussions.  I'll bet you can think of several examples of your own.  We are finally moving into a just-in-time learning society.