The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted nearly every aspect of life. Organisations and individuals had to adapt rapidly to a new reality. While the world faced public health and economic challenges, education and professional learning experienced a profound transformation. Traditional classroom-based methods gave way to virtual learning. Lifelong learning evolved faster than anyone had anticipated.
As the digital landscape undergoes rapid transformation, with emerging technologies reshaping industries and workflows, employers are simultaneously confronted with the challenge of ensuring their employees remain relevant and agile. Traditional learning methods, though effective, are no longer enough to keep up with the ever-changing demands of the workplace. E-learning has emerged as a powerful tool to bridge this gap, but to truly unlock its potential, businesses need a strategic framework that aligns training with real-world experiences.
This is where the 70-20-10 model of learning and development comes into play. Developed by the three leadership researchers - Morgan McCall, Robert W. Eichinger and Michael Lombardo in the 1980s, this model is made up using a simple formula. According to this model, 70% of learning occurs through experience, 20% through social interactions, and 10% through formal education.
70% Experience Learning
The shift to virtual and hybrid work environment during the pandemic prioritised self-directed learning. Trainings are no longer relied solely in traditional classrooms. Instead, employees are learning on the job, navigating new technologies, collaborating across borders, and solving real-time challenges. The digital transformation of many industries and the widespread adoption of tools like Zoom and Microsoft Teams further supported experiential learning, enabling employees to manage remote projects, and collaborate across different time zones.
20% Social Learning
Digital communication tools like Zoom and Microsoft Teams, which enabled informal conversations, knowledge sharing, and real-time peer learning became essential. Physical distancing spurred the rise of online communities. Forums, webinars, and networking groups became the go-to-platforms for professionals to exchange ideas, seek insights and resolve problems together. These virtual spaces connected employees with mentors and subject matter experts who were previously less accessible due to geographical barriers. Peer-to-peer learning was also greatly amplified as employees supported each other in navigating new tools and balancing virtual work-life challenges.
10% Formal Learning
Many institutions and companies moved to online platforms, making learning accessible worldwide. This shift allowed for rapid upskilling and reskilling. Remote workers embraced microlearning, using short, focused modules that fit into their busy schedules. Bite-sized content made it easier to learn. The demand for skill validation also grew, leading to a surge in online certifications from platforms like Coursera and LinkedIn Learning, offering formal recognition of new skills.
To get the most out of e-learning and improve employee performance, it is critical for organisations to embrace the holistic power of the 70-20-10 model through these various ways:
Integrate E-Learning with Real-Life Applications
To maximise e-learning potential, e-learning content should be designed to mirror real-life scenarios, make use of interactive simulations, case studies, and scenario-based learning. By doing so, employees could practice and apply skills in a digital environment. Leveraging mobile learning further enhances this approach by allowing employees to access training materials anytime, anywhere, thus promoting continuous learning. This flexibility supports self-paced learning and integrates training into daily routines, ensuring that the learning process is practical, dynamic, and aligned with real-world work demands.
Enhance Collaboration for Social Learning
To foster social learning, there should be collaborative e-learning platforms that enable employees to share ideas, insights, and challenges through discussion forums and group projects. Encouraging mentorship coaching through structured programmes, supported by digital features such as chat rooms, live webinars, and video calls, can further enhance knowledge transfer. Additionally, promoting knowledge sharing by encouraging employees to create and share content, such as blogs, tutorials, or recorded sessions, ensures that valuable expertise is disseminated across the organisations, facilitating ongoing learning and collaboration.
Blend Learning Modalities for Maximum Impact
To effectively implement the 70-20-10 Model, companies should create an integrated learning ecosystem that combines e-learning with real-world projects, peer interactions, and mentorship. This can be achieved through a centralised platform where employees can access diverse learning resources. In addition, learning programmes should be aligned with the company’s strategic objectives, focusing on developing skills and competencies that directly contribute to business outcomes, ensuring a cohesive and impactful learning experience that supports both individual and organisational growth.
NUS-ISS is leading the way in helping professionals to embrace the 70-20-10 model, best exemplified by the offering of Online Blended Learning Programmes. These programmes provide learners with facilitator-led pacing approach while helping them to achieve their learning and career goals.
"In today’s dynamic world, learning must not only be accessible, but it has to be actionable," said Mr Khoong Chan Meng, CEO of NUS-ISS. "Through our programmes, learners gain not only essential skills but also a deeper understanding of how to implement them within their diverse industries.” he added.
The future of workplace learning lies in a blend of experiential learning, social interactions and formal education. When done right, it becomes a powerful tool that not only empowers individual employees but also accelerates the growth and innovation of the organisations as a whole.
To learn more about NUS-ISS Online Blended Learning Programmes and its courses, please visit here.