Does 70:20:10 imply that formal, structured training won’t work for you?
The 70:20:10 learning model accounts for learning of all sorts, and while the methodology identifies formal, structured coursework and assessments as just one modality, there’s a time and a place for everything.
A common myth around 70:20:10 is that the approach detracts from the benefits of formal learning, even going so far as to imply that it simply doesn’t work, and that informal learning is somehow “better.”
This is not the case. The short answer? It depends on the application. A 70:20:10 approach looks at the most efficient and most effective ways to solve business and performance problems. Sometimes the best solution will include formal learning, but formal learning is usually only part of any potential solution (and sometimes not part at all). Just as the social, collaborative and experiential learning are likely to be part of a solution (or not part at all).
What does formal learning look like in a 70:20:10 online training platform?
When L&D teams are spending the majority of their time and energy on the design and delivery of formal learning programs, they have the greatest opportunity and incentive to get these right. When learners equate the formal course, be it face-to-face or online, with the remit of the L&D team, this can be make or break for learner engagement and success. Our evidence shows that learners are turned off by a vast catalogue of irrelevant courses where they can’t find what they need, and by the annual repetition of tick-the-box compliance exercises.
What does formal learning look like for those active in applying the 70:20:10 model? And how can you apply it to your learning management system (LMS)? When we compare those applying new models of learning with those who are not, we find up to seven-fold differences for some of their tactics:
- 66% analyze the business problem before applying the solution (vs 36%) and are therefore more likely to be providing targeted solutions
- 44% involve users in the design of the most appropriate learning approach (14%)
- 22% apply techniques such as spaced learning to aid retention and application of learning (3%)
Formal courses are just one option in a sea of learning opportunities
Top Deck organizations who are active in applying the model concentrate their efforts to ensure that that formal learning can be relevant, challenging and highly productive.
- 84% blend use of learning technologies in design – from social media for collaborative learning to content delivery (compared to 22% on average)
- 80% apply storytelling techniques in instructional design (32%)
- 55% use defined performance support practices to support learning transfer after formal learning (13%)
Download the new report from Towards Maturity and Charles Jennings to continue reading and get the real story behind several other common myths that surround the 70:20:10 learning model.