Part 2: Key takeaways from World of Learning Exhibition 2024
The exhibition is a brilliant opportunity to discover and sample new ways of working or ways to revamp current practices. Filled with leading industry providers, free seminars and interactive zones, Little Man Project’s Jen Compton, shares a roundup of her two days there.
Session 1: Learning is a wicked problem – what we can and can’t do about it
Kurt Ewald Lindley from Be More Learning and Development introduced the ASRI model (Attention, Sense-making, Retention, Internalisation). The challenge with learning is that it’s hard to define, has multiple variables, and is values-based. The ASRI model offers a design framework based on eight theories to trigger emotional responses and deepen learning.
Top takeaway: We only remember things that make us feel something. This is harder to achieve in online learning, so we need to work smarter to evoke emotional connections.
Session 2: Are AI-enhanced workers less collaborative?
It was not what I expected, but it was a pleasant surprise! Matt Baker from Class Technologies presented their Class platform. This virtual classroom enhances engagement by using AI to track participation interactions and direct instructors to less active learners. Think of all the things you dislike about Teams—Class seems to solve many of them.
Top takeaway: I’m still unsure if these AI data insights truly reflect learner engagement. What about introverts, shy individuals, or learners with additional needs who cannot engage this way? Learning is complex, but Class does offer a lot of potential, and we’ll be trialling it.
Session 3: LEGO and longlines – bringing storytelling and metaphor into learning
Harriet Patience-Davies’ session was packed, so I was in the standing area, which was five deep! The session focussed on adding stories into learning to make it more memorable (13 times more memorable actually, according to Harriet!). While storytelling isn’t new in elearning and, without a doubt, one of the most powerful tools in an instructional designer’s arsenal, Harriet’s film background brought a refreshing new perspective.
Top takeaway: Use film “loglines” (27 words or less) to summarise your idea, project, or learning resource and grab attention.
Session 4: The power of mindset
Mindset Practice presented fascinating research on how our mindset influences our interactions. When we feel psychologically safe and operate from a growth mindset, we’re more adaptable, collaborative, compassionate and resilient. However, only 31% of people are in growth mode—the rest are stuck in survival mode.
Top takeaway: Be curious, be present, and be choiceful. Other than that, check them out. They also have a nifty app in development to keep you accountable, which is coming soon.
Session 5: Unlocking the power of AI: Transforming Learning with coaching chatbots
This session explored how AI chatbots can be used for coaching and personal development. The tool allows users to have AI-guided conversations, helping them create action plans and stay accountable.
Top takeaway: This is undoubtedly an excellent coaching option, but if you can’t afford to go with the solution and want to try it out, consider starting a coaching conversation using Chat GPT.
Meet the author
A great opportunity to meet with some of the top authors right now in L&D. Top meets were catching up with Susi Miller from ElaHub launching her 2nd edition book, Andy Lancaster, Julian Stodd and also special mention Nelson Sivalingam.
Session 6: A good sense of humour with Stephanie Davies
It’s no surprise this session was packed—Stephanie Davies’ lively delivery, filled with personal stories, made a real impact. Her humour-driven approach kept the audience engaged and brought the topic to life.
Top takeaway: A powerful reminder: we can’t always control what happens to us, but we can control how we react.
Session 7: Eyes on the prize – How an award strategy can help L&D improve learning outcomes
Tom McDowell and Paula Hughes from The Learning Network explained how winning awards isn’t just about recognition—it’s an opportunity to reflect and improve your practice. They also shared their tips on structuring submissions to maximise your chances of success.
Top takeaway: You have to be in it to win it! Focus on the criteria, tell compelling stories backed by data, and don’t hesitate to re-enter the same project again and again – just use the feedback provided to strengthen your submission.
Session 8: Ruby Wax – A road less frazzled
Ruby Wax closed the exhibition with a thought-provoking session, including a two-minute guided mindfulness exercise. Even in a noisy exhibition hall, it was surprisingly grounding.
Top takeaway: Mindfulness can be practiced anywhere, anytime. It’s a reminder for me to make time for it, even in the busiest environments.
Final thoughts
The first day of the exhibition was quieter than expected, but day two had much more energy. Overall, it was a great event with interesting talks, new tech, and some solid merchandise—my favourite being the social battery badge from Actineo and the t-shirt from HowNow.
If I was asked for feedback on how to improve it in future, I’d love to see more focus on learning content and the charity/third sector.
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Jen Compton
Director of Learning
Little Man Project
Read part 1 of this blog:
Key takeaways from World of Learning 2024 – the Conference
The World of Learning Conference & Exhibition is a two-day event that brings together leading experts, brands and professionals from the L&D community under one roof. Little Man Project’s Gill Chester shares her key takeaways including a short video at the end.
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