The popularity of eLearning has changed substantially over the last few years, with technology making education and
knowledge sharing more accessible than ever. As of 2022, the global eLearning market size was valued at USD 399.3
billion with an anticipated growth rate of 14% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) between 2023 and 2032.
Whether it’s
for a mandatory certification, professional upskilling, or exploring personal interests, digital learning has
empowered
individuals to pursue knowledge and skills at their own pace, tailor their learning experiences to specific needs,
and
access diverse educational resources from anywhere in the world.
Traditionally, eLearning has been associated with video lectures and modules, often used for continuing education.
However, the way eLearning takes place today has evolved significantly. In this report, when we refer to eLearning,
we’re referring to the use of digital technology to access educational resources and instruction outside of the
traditional classroom setting. Think video modules, online courses, webinars, educational video games, in-app
learning
(like Duolingo), augmented/virtual reality or even educational content found on social media.
This report will dive into the finer details of how learners prefer to absorb information through eLearning
content. We
surveyed hundreds of American eLearners to understand how eLearning fits into their life–their goals, preferred
formats,
investment level, to name a few–and to gain an understanding of how learners like to absorb information.
Hooked on Learning: Nearly 70% of eLearners Make eLearning a Weekly Habit
The digital world has revolutionized our approach to education and knowledge sharing, letting people discover new
interests and ideas, and making learning more accessible and convenient. From self-development to mandatory
workplace
training to learning a new instrument, you can sign up for a course, and learn from the convenience of your own
home!
With self-directed and self-paced eLearning being able to conform to the flow of different people’s lives, it has
become
an integral part of learners’ everyday activities. We asked individuals who had participated in eLearning in the
past
two years to share insights into how eLearning fit into their daily lives. Nearly 70% of learners said they pursued
their learning goals on a daily or weekly basis: 26% engage daily, while 43% participate weekly. 31% pursue their
learning goals either monthly or yearly.
Why Do People Learn?
Career development and personal interests are the primary drivers for participating in eLearning. 60% of learners
participate in eLearning for upskilling and professional development, while a similar proportion (58%) engage in it
to
develop personal interests and hobbies. Learners also pursue eLearning for academic purposes (45%), learning new
technologies or software (34%), meeting mandatory job requirements or training (33%), and learning new languages
(25%).
How Much Do Learners Invest?
In a fast-paced world of digital learning, time and engagement are key. Our survey found that learners favor
shorter,
more focused eLearning sessions. Just under one-third (30%) of learners prefer eLearning sessions up to 30 minutes
long
before needing a break, and one-third (33%) of learners prefer sessions to be up to 45 minutes long before needing a
break. Keeping eLearning sessions concise and bite-sized allows learners to absorb information efficiently without
feeling overwhelmed, and makes it easier to fit learning into busy schedules.
Social Media: More Than Just Scrolling
Some might not consider social media as an eLearning resource, but with so much educational content on social
platforms,
social media’s contributions to learning are undeniable, with 90% of eLearners acknowledging it as a valuable tool
for
gaining knowledge. Platforms like YouTube, LinkedIn, and even Instagram provide educational content, ranging from
quick
tips and tutorials to in-depth discussions and expert-led webinars. The platforms’ algorithms help learners
continuously
engage with and discover new information in an informal but effective setting.
Half (50%) of learners said they actively seek out educational content on social media, and 40% say they come across
and
consume educational content on social media, but don’t intentionally search for it. Whether learners hope to keep up
with the news, want to learn how to bake bread, or need to learn how to change a tire, it’s clear that social media
is
an integral part of the modern eLearning landscape.
Game On: Learn by Playing with Interactive eLearning
Thanks to advancements in technology, interactive eLearning is on the rise. 22% of learners said they have
participated
in interactive eLearning content over the past two years, though this number could be higher. Some people might not
even
realize that activities like a VR simulation in a museum or maintaining a Duolingo streak are actually forms of
eLearning.
Gamified and game-based learning have been around since digital technology entered the classroom. Those who were in
elementary school in the late 1990s and early 2000s might remember classes in the computer lab, playing programs
like
Math Circus, Reader Rabbit, and others. A recently published paper by Najran University found positive effects of
game-based learning, finding that game-based learning in early childhood showed signs of enhanced engagement,
improved
social skills, such as communication and cooperation, and improved emotional development among children.
No matter what age the learner is, game-based learning can help increase the learner’s motivation, knowledge
retention,
and application of that knowledge. Our survey found that interactive eLearning is more likely to be favored by
learners
between the ages of 18-29–40% of that age demographic said interactive eLearning is one of their preferred formats,
compared to 27% of those between the ages of 45-60.
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Methodology
The survey was conducted by Momentive for Voices from August 13, 2024 to August 14, 2024, among a representative sample
of 502 Americans aged 18 or older who had actively participated in eLearning in the last 24 months. The survey’s margin
of error is plus or minus 4 percentage points. Responses have been weighted to reflect distribution in US Census data
for age and gender. The survey looked at habits and preferences among Americans who have recently participated in
eLearning.
About Voices
Voices is the world’s #1 voice marketplace with over 4 million registered users. Since 2005, the biggest and most
beloved brands have entrusted Voices to help them find professionals to bring their projects to life. Voices has worked with major clients including Shopify, Microsoft, The History Channel, The Discovery Channel, Hulu, Cisco, the biggest ad agencies and thousands more small businesses.
