Learning rarely sticks when it happens in isolation. The most impactful learning experiences always utilize compelling components, whether it be storytelling, experiential interactivity, or connection. That’s where social learning comes in. Whether learners are sitting in the same room, completing an eLearning module, or joining from different time zones, intentionally designed activities and tools can transform passive training into meaningful, shared experiences.
In this context, the key is not where learning happens, but how learners are invited to engage with one another and build knowledge together.
The Power of Social Learning in Custom eLearning Development
Social learning taps into a simple truth: adults bring experience, perspective, and context to the table. When learning environments encourage interaction, learners:
- Make sense of new concepts through discussion
- Learn from peers’ successes and mistakes
- Build confidence by articulating ideas
- Strengthen relationships that reinforce accountability
Well-designed social learning doesn’t happen by accident. It requires structure, purpose, and the right tools to support collaboration across formats. Let’s explore three of the most common learning contexts that organizations have, and how each presents exciting opportunities to leverage social learning for better experiences.
Social Learning in In-Person Settings
Of course, in-person settings emulate the classrooms that many of us grew up in and offer natural opportunities for interaction. However, simply being in a shared space doesn’t automatically result in an effective shared learning experience. Constructive and impactful engagement still needs to be designed.
Effective activities include:
- Scenario-based discussions: Small groups analyze realistic situations and decide how they would respond, then compare approaches.
- Role-play and simulations: Learners practice conversations or decision-making in a low-risk setting, followed by structured reflection.
- Gallery walks: Teams rotate through prompts, data, or problems, building on one another’s input.
Some helpful tools for success:
- Facilitation guides with clear prompts
- Reflection worksheets or job aids
- Visual boards (physical or digital) to capture group insights
Pro Tip: For in-person learning experiences, the greatest value comes from the debrief. Asking learners why they made certain choices turns activity into an engaging exploration of decision-making and offers exposure to differing perspectives and problem-solving.
Social Learning eLearning
eLearning is often criticized for being isolating. However, this is largely a symptom of how it is often designed. Since a lot of eLearning is designed to be explored asynchronously, the importance of social learning is de-emphasized. But it doesn’t have to be. When designed intentionally, digital learning can still foster connection and shared meaning.
Effective activities include:
- Embedded Discussion Prompts: Learners respond to a question and review peer responses before moving on.
- Branching Scenarios with Peer Comparison: Learners see how others navigated the same decision points.
- Reflection Checkpoints: Short pauses where learners review peer insights before continuing.
Some helpful tools for success:
- Discussion boards or comment threads
- Interactive scenarios and decision trees
- Collaborative documents or shared whiteboards
Pro Tip: Integrating social learning in eLearning removes the feeling of isolation and can help learners apply their knowledge and insight to a larger discussion and learning journey.
Social Learning in Remote and Hybrid Situations
The boom of remote work has shifted many ways in which organizations engage and integrate distant team members within their culture and operations. However, one area where remote workers are still poorly considered is in how they engage with learning experiences. Remote learning presents unique challenges, but also powerful opportunities for inclusion and flexibility.
Effective activities include:
- Breakout Room Problem-Solving: Small groups tackle a task and report back to the larger group.
- Peer Coaching: Learners connect regularly to discuss application of material between sessions.
- Live Polls: Participants contribute ideas in real time, creating a shared artifact.
Some helpful tools for success:
- Video conferencing platforms with breakout functionality
- Digital whiteboards and polling tools
- Shared workspaces for ongoing collaboration
Pro Tip: Intentional integration of remote workers, which includes the constraints they have to operate in, is critical to success. Remote social learning succeeds when learners know exactly what they’re being asked to do and why.
Designing Custom eLearning Development for Lasting Impact
The most effective social learning tools enhance the learning experience rather than compete with it. Selecting the right activity or platform begins with a clear understanding of the desired outcome, specifically, what behavior or decision needs to change, and the type of interaction required to support that shift. Learner context is equally important, including time limitations, comfort with technology, and the practical realities of day-to-day work.
For social learning to be sustainable, interaction must be intentionally designed into the experience, not treated as an add-on. Clear prompts, straightforward structures, and skilled facilitation enable learners to engage deeply and apply new insights. Over time, consistent opportunities to learn from and with peers build shared accountability and reinforce understanding.