Instructional design is a core component of L&D, but it’s not a topic that should be seen as stable and unchanging. Instructional design needs to evolve as new technologies and approaches emerge, organizations’ goals for success shift, and views on what role L&D should have in supporting learning and performance support fluctuate.

As L&D gazes into the crystal ball it becomes clear that new technology and new ways of working will drastically change the world of work and force our industry to adjust our practices, adopt new understandings, and develop new skills.

Advancements in technology have fundamentally changed what it means to live, work, and learn in an increasingly digital world. Understanding the role technology plays in our work is critical as technology continues to advance and become even more embedded into our work. It’s also important to ensure that technology supports your strategy instead of driving it. Being prepared for this emerging technological world won’t be easy and will require an understanding of where we’ve been, where we are, and where we are headed.

Discussions and understanding about inclusion and accessibility can vary by organization. These discussions should be about more than just doing the bare minimum for compliance. L&D leaders should be talking about the difference they can make by ensuring everyone has an equal opportunity to learn from what they produce.

Microlearning has infiltrated L&D. It’s been fascinating to listen to the tactics, strategies, and debates about what it is and what it isn’t, as well as why it’s important or whether it is even anything new. Beyond the hyperbole, L&D practitioners are employing microlearning initiatives but what results are they seeing?

Augmented and virtual reality are fast emerging in both the enterprise and consumer markets. While these technologies are still evolving, the potential these technologies have to support learning and performance are already emerging.