D2L, a leading global learning technology company, has released new research revealing that while both employers and employees acknowledge the importance of skills development, continuous upskilling is not yet a common practice. The data, collected in early 2024 with Morning Consult, highlights the current challenges and opportunities in creating effective learning and development strategies.
1. Research Findings: The State of Skills Development
- Recognition of Importance:
- 82% of learning and development leaders view talent acquisition and retention as top HR challenges.
- 83% of employees understand that ongoing skills development is crucial for job performance, reflecting a strong interest in upskilling.
- Employee Preferences and Barriers:
- 41% of employees would seek job- or industry-specific skills from their current employer, while only 17% would turn to community colleges and 14% to universities.
- Primary Motivators for additional education or training include increased earning potential (64%) and career advancement (44%).
- Challenges to Upskilling:
- 51% of employees have not engaged in formal education or training outside of work in the past five years.
- Top Barriers: Time constraints (42%) and lack of motivation (35%).
- Preference for Online Learning: 42% of employees prefer online education, yet only 29% of organizations offer this mode of training.
2. Insights from D2L’s Founder
- John Baker’s Perspective:
- John Baker, Founder and CEO of D2L, emphasizes that the research uncovers opportunities to improve upskilling practices. He advocates for integrating technology to enhance training and address skills gaps.
- Quote: “Learning and development is no longer a nice to have but a necessity to help ensure the workforce is equipped to meet the evolving demands of the modern workplace.”
3. Key Recommendations from D2L’s Report: Invest, Upskill, Excel
- Align Talent Strategy with Business Goals:
- Strategic Alignment: Ensure learning and development initiatives support broader business objectives for both individual growth and organizational success.
- Focus on Strategic Learning Opportunities:
- Tailored Learning Experiences: Provide engaging, relevant, and outcome-focused training that meets employees’ job functions and career aspirations.
- Utilize Metrics for ROI:
- Tracking Effectiveness: Develop frameworks to measure the outcomes of training programs, ensuring they meet business goals and deliver a clear return on investment.
- Integrate Education Technology:
- Enhancing Learning Delivery: Leverage technology to improve the management and delivery of training initiatives, catering to diverse learner needs.
D2L’s latest research underscores a significant gap between the recognition of the need for skills development and the actual pursuit of upskilling opportunities. By addressing barriers like time constraints and lack of motivation, and by adopting strategic, technology-driven approaches, organizations can foster a culture of continuous learning that benefits both employees and employers. The report, Invest, Upskill, Excel, offers valuable insights and recommendations for overcoming these challenges and building a more effective learning environment.
