After reading this headline, you may be asking yourself, what is nudge theory? Nudge theory centers on positive reinforcement and inferred suggestions to motivate a person to complete learning tasks. It can have a positive influence on decision-making skills and behavior.

When used in corporate training, nudge theory compels learners to move beyond the boundaries of learning inside the flow of their work life. Corporate online learning solutions should encompass the following nudge strategy characteristics.

Timing is everything

Timing is key. They don’t call it “just in time” learning for nothing. You have to find the right time and place to implement nudge theory.

Post learning opportunities in a visible place

Make sure you publicize your course in places where your learners congregate. This could be the breakroom or on the company website.

Grab attention by posting your course description where learners will see it. The company’s notice board or the intranet home page are good options.

Effectively communicate with your students

Make sure you communicate effectively with the students in your course. You want to come across as helpful and supportive, not as a stalker.

Identify good candidates for your training courses

Candidates will enroll in and complete a course if they have been asked by their boss or supervisor to complete it.

Make acceptance a badge of honor

If you treat attending a course as a special opportunity/privilege—such as by nomination only—learners will feel inspired to complete the course.

Include a forum to facilitate discussion

Discussion helps to create publicity for the course and to create interest. It also provides feedback about the popularity and effectiveness of the course.

Always ask for feedback

People love giving feedback, so you should ask your students how they think the course can be improved.

Make learning a game

Use points, badges, and leaderboards to gamify learning within your company. Empower employees to compete with one another to complete the course. You may also provide awards to outstanding course completers.

Concluding thoughts

So, there you have it, strategies for using nudge theory in your corporate online learning classes. Do you have any additional tips, techniques, or strategies that you would like to share with our readers? If so, leave them in the comment section below.