ATD Research Report topics

2024 Schedule
January 2024
Learning Technologies Ecosystem (SOLD)
In today’s organization, technology plays a role in creating, managing, analyzing, and delivering learning. In this study we’ll explore the different parts of the learning technology ecosystem – including the tools organizations use to create, deliver, and manage their learning content (including LMS), along with the people, processes, and strategies that bind the entire learning technology ecosystem together.
March 2024
State of Healthcare Training
In 2021 ATD Research published the State of Healthcare Training, which provided benchmarking data on key healthcare training indicators, delivery methods, techniques, and technologies. In this updated report we’ll expand the definition of healthcare to include all sectors of the industry as defined by the global industry classification standards. This would include healthcare equipment/supplies, healthcare providers and services, healthcare technology, biotechnology, life science tools/services, and pharmaceuticals. This is an expansion of what was considered healthcare in the 2021 study (acute care hospitals and nonacute facilities).
April 2024
 Bridging the Skills Gap (SOLD)
In 2022 ATD Research published Bridging the Skills Gap, which focused on what contributes to the skills gap, the current state of the skills gap, who is responsible for closing the skills gap, and methods to address the skills gap. In this study, we’ll update the previous research and focus on the role of talent development in filling skills gaps in organizations. We’ll also include a section on the importance of durable (soft) skills.
April 2024
 Localization (SOLD)
Localization of training goes beyond just translating a course; it includes adapting the information to be appropriate for other regions, countries, and cultures. In 2024, ATD research will introduce new research that focuses on localization adoption, effectiveness of localizing trainings, and its impact on accessibility.
May 2024
Onboarding
According to Glassdoor,it takes $4,000 and 24 days to hire a new worker. With this investment, organizations should be providing an onboarding experience that protects their investment. In this study we’ll start with pre-boarding, we’ll learn more about orientation, and we’ll explore what resources and tools organizations use to help onboard.
June 2024
Instructional Design
ATD defines instructional design as “the creation of learning experiences and materials is what results in the acquisition and application of knowledge and skills.” ATD Research last focused on this topic in 2015, and in this updated report we’ll focus on the skills and competencies of instructional designers, challenges they experience, and current practices.
July 2024
Measuring Informal Learning
In this study we’ll explore the idea that learning can happen anywhere. We’ll study how organizations are supporting informal learning; how (and whether) they are measuring and tracking this type of learning; motivating employees to take the initiative to learn on their own; and challenges and benefits of self-directed learning. Specific types of informal learning will include mentoring, memberships in professional groups, stretch assignments, networking, and online learning resources (i.e., gamification, etc.).
August 2024
Making Online Learning Assessments Successful
Organizations use learning assessments to assess knowledge, skills, or competence. The study will include information about test assessments and performance assessments, focusing on how organizations create them, who receives the results, and the effectiveness of these methods.
September 2024
Blended Learning (SOLD)
Blended learning is the use of asynchronous and synchronous learning to engage learners. In this study we’ll explore innovative learning technologies, determine resources and budgets needed to implement this method, identify common challenges, and identify training topics that work well for a blended learning format. We’ll also highlight the skills and capabilities TD professionals should concentrate on to become an expert at blended learning design.
October 2024
The Science of Learning
In 2017, ATD Research published The Science of Learning: Key Strategies for Designing and Delivering Training. As one of the 23 capabilities in the ATD Talent Development Capability Model, learning sciences focuses on understanding learning, learning innovation, and instructional methodologies. In this updated report, we will explore how organizations are applying learning theories and cognitive science to design, develop, and deliver solutions that maximize outcomes. In this report, we’ll also explore how TD professionals are developing their knowledge and skills in this growing area.
October 2024
Leadership Skills
In 2023, ATD Research published Leadership Development, which focused on how organizations train their leaders. In this new study, we’ll focus on the essential skills that help good leaders become great. Topics in the report include emotional intelligence, communication, and trust.
November 2024
Future Skills for TD Professionals
It’s difficult to predict what the workplace will look like in 5 years – but are talent development professionals (and their employers) ready to make changes and adapt to the future of work? In this study we’ll explore future readiness and how TD professionals are keeping their skills relevant and up to date; important skills for the future of talent development; and predictions about how technologies will evolve and impact trainers and the learning they provide.
December 2024
State of Industry Report
This annual report provides organizations with talent development trends, spending, and activity benchmarks. With an emphasis on industry and company size differences, this robust, data-driven report will give talent development professionals a better understanding of where the field is currently and forecast 2025 organizational priorities.