Why Continuing Education Feels Broken--and What IACET's Doing About It
If you've ever talked to professionals outside the education industry about continuing education and professional development, you've probably heard a familiar complaint: "I know it’s important, but I hate it."
When pressed on why, the responses are remarkably consistent:
- They only teach what I already know.
- It’s boring and not engaging.
- It feels impersonal, especially online.
- Why do I have to hear about the same things every year?
This presents a frustrating paradox. Learners actively seek relevant, engaging training, and every instructional designer is working hard to develop precisely that. So why does this disconnect persist? And more importantly, what can be done to fix it?
Understanding the Disconnect
The gap between learners and instructional designers exists for several reasons:
1. Mismatch in Objectives and Perceptions
Learners want training that is immediately applicable, engaging, and valuable. However, organizations often see continuing education (CE) as a checkbox requirement rather than an opportunity for meaningful growth. As a result, many training programs default to uninspiring, compliance-driven models that fail to resonate with learners.
2. Over-Reliance on Traditional Models
Many CE programs rely on outdated teaching methods—static PowerPoint lectures, repetitive content, and a one-size-fits-all approach—despite growing evidence that more interactive and adaptive learning experiences are far more effective.
3. Lack of Feedback Loops
Learners often aren’t given the opportunity to shape professional development programs, and instructional designers lack access to real-time engagement data or learner feedback beyond generic course evaluations.
4. The Online Learning Pitfall
Online education, while convenient, often exacerbates the problem by stripping away human interaction and engagement. Digital courses can feel detached and impersonal without intentional design, making learners feel like they’re passively watching rather than actively learning.
How IACET is Leading the Way
As the global leader in continuing education accreditation, IACET recognizes these challenges and is actively working to bridge the gap between learners and instructional designers. This year, IACET is taking a bold step forward by hosting two symposiums focused on rethinking continuing education:
May 2025: Neuroinclusivity in Learning
This symposium will explore how CE providers can create training that accommodates a diverse range of cognitive styles, including those of neurodivergent learners. Attendees will learn how to design courses that foster engagement for all types of thinkers, ensuring CE is not just a one-size-fits-all experience.
October 2025: Digital Accessibility in Continuing Education
As online learning continues to dominate the CE landscape, accessibility remains a major concern. This event will tackle how providers can ensure digital training is engaging, inclusive, and effective for all learners, regardless of ability or learning style.
A Path Forward: How CE Can Evolve
While these symposiums will highlight key solutions, there are several ongoing changes that can improve continuing education today:
1. Shifting the Narrative: CE as a Tool for Growth, Not Just Compliance
IACET is helping organizations see CE as an opportunity for skill enhancement, innovation, and career development—not just a regulatory requirement.
2. Encouraging Personalized Learning
By promoting adaptive learning technologies and competency-based education, IACET is championing a shift toward training that meets learners where they are, rather than making them sit through redundant content.
3. Strengthening Learner-Instructional Designer Feedback Loops
IACET is advocating for better feedback mechanisms that allow learners to shape CE programs, ensuring that training remains relevant and engaging.
4. Promoting Alternative Learning Models
From interactive simulations to gamification and project-based learning, IACET is encouraging providers to move beyond passive learning toward more engaging, high-impact CE experiences.
5. Addressing Online Learning Pitfalls
Through its accreditation standards and guidance, IACET is helping organizations create engaging, interactive, and inclusive online courses that enhance—not hinder—the learning experience.
Conclusion
Continuing education should not be something professionals dread. It should be an exciting opportunity to grow, innovate, and advance in one’s career. Through its upcoming symposiums on neuroinclusivity and digital accessibility, IACET is leading the charge to ensure CE meets the evolving needs of today’s learners and instructional designers alike.
Are you ready to rethink continuing education? Join IACET this year to be part of the solution.
About the Author
Randy is a seasoned executive leader currently serving as the President and CEO of IACET, a non-profit accrediting body in the continuing education and training sector. With a focus on strategic vision and operational excellence, he effectively leads the organization to achieve its mission and goals.
With over two decades of experience in various leadership roles, Randy has a proven track record of driving organizational success. His expertise lies in aligning technological solutions with strategic objectives, ensuring operational efficiency and sustainable growth.