Pulsed eLearning: A Solution for Effective, Efficient Learning

Why Organizations Should Embrace Pulsed Learning

As an expert in adult learning design with over 20 years of experience, I’ve witnessed countless training methods. One of the most innovative is pulsed learning (also known as spaced interval learning), which delivers content in short, focused bursts over time instead of overwhelming learners with information all at once. This approach aligns with the principles of spaced learning and micro-learning, proven to enhance retention and application. Perhaps you’ve heard of HIIT, or High Intensity Interval Training for the body? With HIIT, short and focused bursts of training lead to compounded gains. Turns out you can achieve similar results for the brain!

The Problem: The Forgetting Curve and Retention Challenges

One of the biggest challenges in learning is retention. Research on the “forgetting curve” shows that we forget information rapidly unless it’s reinforced periodically. Traditional training methods often front-load information, leading to low retention.

The spacing effect, as highlighted by Will Thalheimer, shows that spreading learning sessions over time significantly improves memory. However, implementing spaced intervals without disrupting workflows or overloading employees remains a challenge for many organizations.

Pulsed eLearning: A Proven Solution

Pulsed eLearning addresses this by reinforcing training without overwhelming learners. According to Training Industry, this method fosters a culture of continuous learning and integrates training seamlessly into daily workflows.

This aligns with the concept of micro-learning, delivering brief, targeted learning segments that suit today’s busy professionals. The Harvard Business Review also emphasizes embedding learning in the flow of work as crucial for effective development. Pulsed learning makes this possible by engaging learners at optimal times when they are most receptive.

Introducing “HiiT” by CrossTrainer: A Solution Tailored for Success

CrossTrainer’s “HiiT” (High-Intensity Interval Training for Learning) is designed to help organizations harness the benefits of spaced and micro-learning effectively. Here’s how “HiiT” addresses common challenges for learning professionals:

• Seamless Workflow Integration: “HiiT” integrates learning into employees’ routines through short, impactful bursts, preventing disruption and “learning fatigue.”
• Maximizing Retention with Spaced Intervals: By scheduling learning sessions strategically, “HiiT” aligns with cognitive science principles to reinforce knowledge and combat the forgetting curve.
• Engagement through Micro-Learning: With concise, focused learning experiences, “HiiT” keeps learners engaged and motivated, catering to modern professionals who thrive on dynamic learning.
• Motivation through Gamification: Individual and Team/Regional leaderboards promote participation and offer opportunities to reward.  
• Data-Driven Analysis: Robust analytics with question level detail to easily identify knowledge gaps in real time.
• NEW! Push Notifications: Users can now opt to install “HiiT” and receive push notifications on their device to alert them when a new HiiT becomes available. This provides improved visibility beyond standard email notifications.

Conclusion: A Future-Ready Approach to Learning

Pulsed eLearning is a forward-thinking approach that aligns with the needs of today’s workforce. CrossTrainer’s “HiiT” leverages spaced intervals and micro-learning to help organizations overcome retention, engagement, and application challenges.

For learning professionals, “HiiT” presents a research-backed, practical solution to integrate spaced learning without disrupting workflows. It’s time to adopt pulsed learning and foster a culture where learning is continuous, relevant, and impactful.