How to create a learner persona?

We need to understand who is learning in order to design effectively.

When we have identified a skill gap that can be addressed with a training that involves practice, we can use the persona to design the learning solution. For example, we can decide which touchpoints, digital tools, content and activities we will include in the training.

When we understand who we are designing for, we can best cater to their needs and make learning motivating. This also makes learning more impactful and morel likely meets the initial need for performance enhancement.

When we are profiling and creating a persona, we are asking these questions

• What is the level of their experience and what behaviours need to be changed?

• How do they feel about this? Why?

• What has been previously done to change their behaviour?

• What is the context of their work? Location, time zone, team setup, culture, languages?

• How will they access information?

• What skills do they have to perform the task? How does it make them feel to perform it?

When we are using personas, we tailor the training to improve performance in their jobs and make sure learning solution is relevant and engaging. We reduce cognitive overload by providing spot-on practice.