Training Magazine: Global Head of Cognizant Academy Outlines Best Practices for Maximizing ROI on Social and Digital Learning

“Digital and social technologies continue to transform how we learn,” writes Hariraj Vijayakumar. “The adoption of social learning is accelerating as the Millennial workforce demonstrates a strong inclination toward it. In the last few years, technology has enriched digital learning with features that are equivalent to or more powerful than those of conventional classroom learning.” Excerpts from the article:

“At Cognizant, we’ve gained valuable experience from the company’s enterprise social networks. We continually explore how social media can be harnessed to maximize communication and learning, while underscoring the benefits of anytime, anywhere access to information and educational collaboration. We leverage social technologies and create interactive learning environments that engage the Millennials, who make up a majority of Cognizant’s workforce. Some of our vibrant practices that can be useful for other companies looking to maximize social learning are: theme of the month, community forums, global classrooms, and program-based forums.

Gamification—be it about introducing “game-like” elements in learning content and course structure, or about creating game-based learning—captures the minds of today’s Millennial generation. The mechanics of gamification involve taking the principles that make games addictive and applying them in a learning context to improve retention and recollection of knowledge, and better application and practice of skills. When properly implemented, gamification has the potential to make learning interesting, increase uptake of learning content, and also catalyze a comprehensive record of learning that would not be possible using conventional measures in courses.

While it is exciting to bring to bear the most advanced practices in social and digital learning, the actual practices have to enhance learning effectiveness and the impact on underlying business goals. Therefore, it is useful to reiterate two management practices: measure learning, and think and design global.

Incorporating current technology and advanced practices into training programs helps engage employees better with platforms using methods that truly resonate with their preferences. This ultimately enhances the skills necessary to boost productivity and job performance.”

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