Technology-enabled approaches to learning are a flexible approach to support the knowledge and skills development of software developers. It fills the need for immediate learning and professional development. But, technical online learning platforms use traditional learning techniques which are not the most effective method to improve the current knowledge and skills of software developers.
Online learning platforms such as PluralSight, Udemy, CodeCademy, Skillsoft, Simplilearn, and Coursera provide mobile educational content capabilities. The courses offered to software developers use blended learning techniques, which incorporates traditional classroom settings within an e-learning environment.
For example, technology skills platform PluralSight allows software developers to select topics related to improving their current knowledge and skill needs. This form of online training is said to help developers focus on what will benefit their technical skills. But developers have to anticipate specific areas to pursue within the learning platform’s library.
This gap in relevant educational content can negatively impact a developer’s productivity since the educational content is not situational to their software development work environment. Situated learning environments place learners in authentic learning situations and actively immerses them in an activity that uses their problem-solving skills. Software developers need proficient access to knowledge that can immediately benefit their workflow.
On-the-job training is delivered while an individual is performing tasks related to their particular profession. This approach is a vital form of professional growth; furthermore, 58% of developers surveyed by HackerRank agree and want opportunities to learn new technical skills on the job.
Online learning platforms are thought to provide situated learning capabilities; however, they use traditional learning settings that require an instructor and out of context experience.
To improve the knowledge and skills of software developers, managers must focus on learning methods that engage a developer’s problem-solving abilities.