2024 Expert Guide: 6 eLearning localisation trends to watch for

Posted: 4 Mar 2024
elearning localisation trends

The rise of multilingual eLearning is showing no sign of slowing down.

In 2022, the global eLearning market was valued at $399.3 bn, and some estimates expect that to grow by 14% by 2032. Around 90% of corporations already offer online learning in some capacity, so what are the eLearning localisation trends to watch for in 2024? And what’s the best approach to translating eLearning content into other languages?

Here’s our expert guide to help you out.

Trend 1: Personalised learning

Personalised learning involves tailoring content to the individual needs of the learner, including their native language.

And now, AI tools are making it easier and cheaper than ever to translate training content.

From a recent study we conducted, we found that 57% of L&D providers are using AI within their localisation process to translate eLearning content. Maintaining a human-in-the-loop approach when it comes to using machine translation ensures that quality standards are maintained, even when working at top speed.

Check out our recent webinar to learn some of the big wins from localising eLearning content.

Trend 2: Culturally-adapted content

Localisation is about more than just translation. For learning content to be really engaging, it has to be culturally relevant to the audience. eLearning localisation should consider things like the use of images, humour, cultural references and even the approach to gender, to ensure the learning content lands effectively in the target market.

Trend 3: Increased use of AI

According to recent research carried out by the ISDF, 28% of organisations are using AI to build training, 21% had it on a roadmap for 2024 and a further 23% were going to be seriously considering it in 2024. Using AI in this way can be a great opportunity to save time and money, but course providers need to be aware of inherent bias in these models; what works for British or American learners, may not work for APAC learners, for example.

Trend 4: International compliance

When it comes to any training content with a legal or regulatory basis, it’s important to make sure it’s compliant with local in-market standards. Health and safety training, for example, will look different for teams based in India vs. UK. You should speak to an expert to get help ensuring you’re meeting all training requirements for learners based in a different country.

Trend 5: Multilingual chatbots

Lots of courses offer chatbots to help learners progress, but often these are only in English. Another good use case for AI (or AI-based machine translation) is to offer cost-effective multilingual chatbots, democratising learning for everyone.

Trend 6: Localised videos

A study by Google showed that 58% of us use videos to learn. For eLearning designers or providers, it’s easier now than ever to localise video content. You can use AI to generate synthetic voiceover, including lifelike avatars, to help training content sound as engaging and impactful as possible.

The bottom line: Use an eLearning localisation expert

Comtec has been working with L&D and eLearning providers for years, and we’ve developed a rich knowledge base around best practices. Whether you’re an agency, an organisation or an end user, we will work with you to localise your eLearning content in the most efficient, accurate and culturally relevant way. We can advise on which modules need localisation, and the best route to take to meet any requirements around your budget, deadline and quality. Get in touch with any query, we’d love to hear from you.