The Death of Traditional L&D: What 2025 Holds for Learning and Development

In this episode of The Digital Adoption Show, Sanskriti Bhatla, Digital Adoption Strategist at Whatfix, explores the topic "The Death of Traditional L&D: What 2025 Holds for Learning and Development" with guest Rita Sookrit, a seasoned L&D leader with two decades of global experience. Together, they discuss the transformation of learning and development practices and the role of emerging technologies in shaping the future of L&D.

Key Points Discussed:

1. The Death of Traditional L&D:
   Rita emphasizes the decline of one-size-fits-all training programs and fully in-person classroom sessions. She highlights the need for flexible, personalized learning experiences that meet individual needs and align with business goals.
2. AI and Learning Experience Transformation:
   The role of AI in revolutionizing L&D was a key focus. Rita discusses how AI-driven learning, virtual reality, and mobile learning are replacing outdated methods, offering learners more relevant and customized experiences. However, she stresses that AI should be used as a tool in conjunction with human expertise, not as a replacement.
3. Impact of Emerging Technologies:
   Rita shares insights into digital adoption platforms (DAPs) and simulation software, highlighting their ability to bridge skill gaps and provide hands-on training in real-time. These tools align training with business objectives and offer unbiased data for decision-making.
4. Unified Learning Platforms:
   The episode explores the push for unified learning platforms that integrate learning performance, monitoring, and consulting. Rita explains that while these platforms offer efficiencies, they must be used to drive performance and business impact rather than just for tracking basic metrics.
5. Critical Skills for L&D Professionals in 2025:
   Rita categorizes future L&D skills into three buckets: digital and technical skills, human (power) skills, and skills like curiosity, growth mindset, and generational awareness. She emphasizes the importance of data literacy and leadership to position L&D as a strategic function.
6. Measuring ROI in L&D:
   Rita discusses the challenge of measuring ROI in L&D, but with advancements in tools like DAPs, it’s becoming more achievable. She offers practical tips for calculating ROI using models like Jack Phillips’ ROI Methodology and stresses the importance of aligning training with organizational goals.

Conclusion:

To remain relevant, L&D teams must embrace new technologies, cultivate a growth mindset, and develop a disruptive approach to learning. As AI and digital platforms reshape the future of work, L&D professionals must stay agile and strategic to meet evolving business needs.

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