What’s the Difference Between Learning and Training? What’s the difference between learning and training? Learn what to call learning and development audiences: learners, trainees, or something else. By Brent Ervin-Eickhoff • 7 September, 2016 • 2 min read • Training & Corporate Materials There is a great debate in the learning and development (L&D) world right now: what do you call your audience? More importantly, what do you call yourself? On this page We Should Stop Using the Term Learner Because… We Shouldn't Stop Using the Term Learner Unless... Training Culture vs. Learning Culture Learning Vs. Training & Development Education and Training - What’s the Difference? L&D Value When the American Society for Training and Development (ASTD) changed their name to the Association for Talent Development (ATD) in 2014, the line was drawn in the sand. Ever since, thought leaders and practitioners have debated the pros and cons of using the word “training,” and “learners.” Jane Hart even went so far as to ask what would happen if the L&D department disappeared altogether. Here’s a snapshot of recent opinions in the learning vs training debate: We Should Stop Using the Term Learner Because… JD Dillon argues that the term “learner” is a useless label. We Shouldn’t Stop Using the Term Learner Unless… In a direct rebuttal to JD Dillon, Alexander Salas argues that the label “learner” is still relevant. Training Culture vs. Learning Culture Stephen J. Gill chimes in on the nuances between focusing on a training culture and a learning culture. Learning Vs. Training & Development Bryant Nielsen discusses the difference between where training is relevant and where learning is relevant. Education and Training – What’s the Difference? Chris Barnes adds another term into the mix and investigates how education and training are similar and where they differ. L&D Value Clark Quinn argues that L&D adds value to the organization but should maybe be called P&D. What do you think? Are we teaching learners, trainees, people, or something else? Is it worth the debate? [Free eBook & Webinar] State of Learning and Development 2016 The State of Learning and Development 2016 report is produced in conjunction with InSync Training to find out what are current L&D challenges and what the L&D professionals are planning on implementing in the future. Download your copy here, or register for our webinar. Brent Ervin-Eickhoff Director of Marketing Brent Ervin-Eickhoff is a Chicago-based marketer with B2B and B2C experience spanning corporations, agencies, and non-profits, including five years of experience in print. From Volkswagen to the University of Chicago, his background is focused in crafting marketing campaigns that drive results. Previous Post Next Post
