As Learning and Development (L&D) professionals, understanding how the brain works is key to creating more impactful and long-lasting training programs. One of the most exciting breakthroughs in neuroscience, neuroplasticity, offers invaluable insights into how our brains learn, adapt, and grow. By leveraging this knowledge, you can ensure your training programs are designed to maximize learning retention and help employees apply new skills effectively.
Whether you're developing in-person training, eLearning, or hybrid learning experiences, the principles of neuroplasticity can help you create training programs that stick.
What is Neuroplasticity?
For decades, it was believed that after a certain age, the brain’s ability to change was limited. However, neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections—shows that our brains can continue to evolve throughout our lives. This means we can "teach an old dog new tricks," regardless of age or experience level.
Research has proven that the brain’s structure and function can change over time, especially when it’s actively engaged in learning. Understanding how these processes work can help you design more effective and lasting learning experiences.
How the Brain Changes: Key Insights from Dr. Lara Boyd’s Research
Dr. Lara Boyd’s TEDx talk, "After Watching This, Your Brain Will Not Be the Same," provides valuable insights into how neuroplasticity functions. She identifies three key ways the brain changes during learning:
- Increased Chemicals: When you learn something new, your brain increases the production of neurotransmitters, which help signal connections between neurons. This quick change supports short-term learning and helps you grasp new information.
- Altered Structure: Over time, repeated learning strengthens connections between neurons, physically altering the brain’s structure. This long-term learning process is how we move from temporary knowledge to lasting memory.
- Altered Function: As neural pathways strengthen, those brain regions become more easily activated, making it easier to recall and apply information in future situations. This represents the shift from learning to true skill development.
For L&D professionals, the goal is to create training programs that do more than just facilitate short-term learning. We want to ensure that the brain is structurally and functionally changed—leading to lasting knowledge retention and skill application. So, how can we leverage neuroplasticity to design more effective training programs?
How to Apply Neuroplasticity Principles to Your Training Programs
To harness the power of neuroplasticity in your training initiatives, consider these research-backed strategies for optimizing learning outcomes.
Behavior Drives Neuroplasticity: Practice is Essential
Neuroplasticity research shows that practice is the most effective driver of change in the brain. The more we engage in specific tasks, the stronger the neural connections become.
- Training Strategy: Ensure your programs offer ample opportunities for learners to practice and apply what they’ve learned. Activities like role-playing, scenario-based learning, or on-the-job practice are great ways to facilitate long-term learning and skill mastery. The key is to move beyond passive learning and provide active, hands-on experiences.
One Size Doesn’t Fit All: Personalize the Learning Experience
Not all learners process information at the same pace. Some may need additional practice or revisit concepts multiple times to fully grasp them.
- Training Strategy: Use a blended learning approach that offers a mix of learning formats, such as in-person training, eLearning, and self-paced modules. Include follow-up exercises, discussion groups, or refresher courses to help learners reinforce and recall key concepts. Personalized learning paths or microlearning sessions can also allow learners to review specific topics they find challenging or need to revisit over time.
Provide Diverse Learning Interventions
Research shows that each learner may benefit from different types of learning interventions. Some may need additional resources, one-on-one coaching, or mentorship to succeed.
- Training Strategy: In addition to a blended approach, offer curated content that learners can access on-demand. This can include supplementary reading materials, job aids, or instructional videos. Provide ongoing support through coaching or mentorship programs to ensure learners have the resources they need to succeed and reinforce learning.
Optimizing Training Programs Based on Neuroplasticity
By embracing the principles of neuroplasticity in your training design, you can create more effective learning experiences that foster long-term retention and skill development. The goal is to create training programs that engage the brain in meaningful ways, helping learners not only absorb information but also retain and apply it in the real world.
Here are a few final tips for applying neuroplasticity to your training programs:
- Repetition and Practice: Build regular opportunities for learners to practice skills over time. The more they engage with the material, the stronger the neural connections.
- Active Learning: Move away from passive learning strategies and incorporate more interactive elements like simulations, role-playing, and problem-solving exercises.
- Feedback and Reflection: Provide timely, constructive feedback that helps learners understand how to improve. Reflection exercises encourage learners to make connections between what they've learned and how it applies to their roles.
- Continuous Learning: Encourage lifelong learning by offering ongoing training opportunities. Employees should be able to revisit materials, engage in skill-building activities, and continue to build their expertise long after the initial course.
Incorporating principles of neuroplasticity into your training programs can significantly improve learning outcomes by fostering deeper, long-lasting changes in the brain. By focusing on practice, personalized learning, and a variety of engaging learning activities, you can help your employees build and retain the skills they need to succeed.
As an L&D professional or hiring manager, it's essential to choose instructional designers and learning solutions that consider the latest findings in neuroscience. These insights will not only help you create more effective training programs but also boost employee engagement and overall performance.
Are you interested in learning how to apply these principles to your training programs? Contact us today to discuss how we can help you optimize your learning strategies for maximum impact.
