By: Shawna Simcik

Online, self-paced learning is designed for maximum scalability. Take this example,

“We recently launched XYZ online learning platform. Now, any employee in our 2,000-employee company can access learning.”

But, without some external motivation (reward, recognition, performance metrics), only 15% of employees are motivated to learn. It’s cool to offer these resources to our employees, but it’s much better to set up a system to guide employees through learning sprints and build-in accountability measures to increase utilization.

Similarly, traditional classroom training is high-energy and euphoric, but we are humans, and brain science tells us we can’t retain it if we don’t practice it. Half-day or full-day training courses are similar to drinking through a firehose, and very little material is applied back on the job.

Introducing learning sprints! A sprint at the heart of software development is a short, time-boxed period when a scrum team works to complete a set amount of work. We use the same methodology for learning – a phased guided roadmap to acquire new skills. The sprint method coupled with five different adult learning theories is what ICC’s Accelerator™ leadership coaching program is built upon. Key principles include

1. Learning must be bite-sized, integrated into the flow-of-work, and spread out over time.
2. Learners must be allowed to apply their skills, practice, receive feedback and do it again.
3. We must create an environment of learning in the workplace.
4. Humans are wired to connect, so there must be an opportunity to learn and connect with others.

Register for the Upcoming Webinar: Accelerator™ Product Demo: Retain Talent and Cultivate Leaders Through Upskilling

ICC’s Accelerator™ online leadership program is the only product that incorporates all four key principles. Through this combination, we see greater than 90% engagement and an 85% improvement in leadership skills after six months.

Want to learn more? Join us on Aug. 25th as we review this innovative program and discuss embedding collaboration and coaching in your learning programs to retain key talent and cultivate great leaders.