FY2026 eLearning Trends – practical tips for smarter online training design

As we begin a new financial year, many Australian organisations are reassessing how they deliver training. The rapid evolution of digital learning technologies, especially in areas like AI, mobile delivery, and learner personalisation, presents significant opportunities for L&D teams to design more effective, scalable, and engaging experiences.

Below, we’ve highlighted some of the key trends shaping eLearning, along with practical tips to help your organisation make the most of them.

AI-Powered Learning

Artificial intelligence continues to transform how we create, deliver, and personalise online training. AI tools now incorporate machine learning, natural language processing, computer vision, and advanced analytics to support both learners and instructional designers.

Here are a few ways your team can harness AI:

  1. Streamlining Content Creation and Editing
     AI platforms can help generate first-draft content, summarise large documents, restructure learning modules, and even repurpose existing materials for different audiences (e.g. different departments or customer types). This can significantly cut down development time. However, it’s crucial to have a robust quality control process in place. AI-generated content can include errors or lack contextual nuance, so human oversight remains essential.

  2. AI Voice Generation
     The quality of AI-generated voiceovers has improved dramatically. These tools are now capable of producing near-human voice overs, enabling you to deliver high-quality narration without the traditional costs or turnaround times. Advanced tools can also replicate internal voices or create unique characters, making them especially useful in scenario-based learning or animated training videos.

  3. AI Translation
     For organisations delivering training in multiple languages, the latest AI dubbing technology can greatly reduce the cost and effort involved in localisation. 

 

Personalised Learning Experiences

Personalisation is no longer a ‘nice to have’, it’s fast becoming a learner expectation. Delivering content that’s relevant to an individual’s role, knowledge level, or interests can significantly improve engagement, retention, and completion rates.

Here are some approaches to consider:

  1. In-Course Personalisation
     By asking learners a few key questions at the start of a module, you can tailor the learning experience based on their responses. For example, someone with prior knowledge might skip foundational content, while another learner receives more in-depth coverage.
  2. Microlearning Pathways
     Breaking larger modules into micro or nano-sized segments (each focused on a single learning objective) allows you to design more flexible and targeted learning paths. These can be grouped by job role, skill area, or level of experience, helping learners access only what’s relevant to them.

  3. LMS-Level Adaptation
     Some advanced Learning Management Systems (LMS) can personalise content dynamically, using machine learning and user analytics. If you’re investing in a new LMS, look for platforms that support adaptive learning functionality.

 

3. The Rise of Microlearning

Microlearning, delivering content in short, focused bursts, has proven to be more effective and better aligned with modern learners’ preferences. Today’s workforce often favours just-in-time learning over traditional long-form modules.

How to implement microlearning:

  • Review your current training library. Identify any modules longer than 15 minutes and consider breaking them down into smaller segments, each aligned to a single learning outcome.

  • Rebuild these as short, self-contained micro-modules that can be reused across multiple learning journeys.

  • Incorporate scenario-based elements or interactive components to maintain learner engagement.

Microlearning is especially effective for compliance training, onboarding, refresher content, and skill development in fast-changing environments.

 

4. Mobile Learning is a Must

With hybrid work now commonplace, mobile-first learning has become a necessity. Learners expect to access content anytime, anywhere, whether during downtime on public transport or between meetings on a tablet or phone.

To ensure your learning content is mobile-friendly, follow these best practices:

  • Keep it brief. Limit on-screen text and break content into manageable chunks.

  • Use clear visual design that scales well across different screen sizes.

  • Avoid complex interactions. Opt for tap-friendly assessments and minimal scrolling.

  • Always test content across a range of devices and operating systems to ensure consistency.

Even if your LMS supports mobile delivery, you’ll get better outcomes by designing specifically for mobile consumption.

 

Final Thoughts

The eLearning landscape is evolving rapidly, driven by technology and changing learner expectations. Organisations that embrace these trends: AI-powered tools, personalised pathways, microlearning, and mobile-first design, will be best positioned to deliver effective and engaging training experiences at scale.

Whether you’re building new content or updating your existing library, now is a great time to refresh your approach and ensure you’re set up for success in FY25 and beyond.