We are in an era of peer learning.
Humans are naturally social creatures. Since the dawn of time, humans have used community as a means for connection and survival. Like other creatures that inhabit this earth, we tend to run in groups: family units, towns, churches, governments—these are all communities in which we depend on one another for success.
It only makes sense that we would want to learn together too. Rooted in social learning theory, peer learning takes place in communities and nowadays plays a large role in corporate learning and development functions across the globe.
It’s also never been easier to create a culture where peer learning is encouraged. Thanks to technology, we have never been more connected. Technology is used in literally every job role, from the frontline to the c-suite. The average Internet user spends about six and a half hours online each day.
Recent data shows a significant growth in peer learning across organizations. This makes sense, considering we can learn with our peers anywhere with the help of technology.
Peer learning has several advantages, such as the ability to boost individual learner self-confidence, develop a feeling of personal and collective responsibility and increase employee engagement. It can also nurture important skills, such as communication, problem-solving, critical thinking, teamwork and help to improve metacognitive skills.
Peer learning can also help contribute to psychological safety. Leaders should encourage non-judgmental settings where employees can share their own ideas and experiences, ask questions and admit to making mistakes without fear of retribution from their colleagues, managers or leaders.
According to Whatfix, social and peer learning plays a beneficial role in skill development. As more learning strategies adopt a skills-centered approach, it would be beneficial for organizations to consider how to best leverage peer learning in order to create a psychological safe and productive environment where individuals can learn from and motivate each other and practice new skill sets.
In just a few short weeks, we will be hosting the annual Chief Learning Officer Symposium, a three-day gathering where L&D leaders will come together, learn from one another and celebrate team accomplishments in corporate learning.
The CLO Symposium is the ultimate peer learning experience, comprising inspiring keynotes, workshops, discussions and sessions designed to spark curiosity, foster fruitful collaboration and fortify strong partnerships across the L&D industry.
In fact, conferences are a perfect environment for peer learning. We get exposed to new ideas and strategies, engage in important discussions, receive immediate feedback and connect with peers over shared experiences, challenges and common interests.
The CLO Symposium is being held October 21 through 23 this year in Tucson, Arizona. Since joining the BetterWork Media Group team in 2019, I have had the opportunity and privilege to help host five of these meaningful events. Each year I learn more about this wonderful industry, and feel fortunate to be a part of a community that values the power of learning.
My sixth CLO Symposium happens to be the 20th anniversary of the event. With each year, it feels like the event grows richer in insights and experiences. It’s also very cool to hear what everyone has accomplished since I last connected with them at last year’s event.
Whether we’re old friends from pre-COVID-19 or you’re a soon-to-be new peer, I’m so thrilled to learn with you in Tucson.
