Changing Mindsets! Replacing Teach-and-Quiz with Contextual Learning

Effective learning happens in context, not in isolation. In First Principles of Instruction, Merrill (2002) emphasizes that real learning begins with real problems and involves activation, demonstration, application, and integration. Still, most workplace training relies on the familiar “teach-and-quiz” approach, delivering knowledge followed by assessments, with limited impact on performance. While this remains the norm, employees are increasingly seeking relevant, experience-driven learning instead (What Employees Want from L&D in 2024, TalentLMS & Vyond, 2024).  If we know what works, why is change so hard? Because learning design is shaped by mindset not just skill. This isn’t a technical issue; it’s an adaptive challenge. According to Heifetz et al. in The Practice of Adaptive Leadership, adaptive challenges require shifts in values, behaviors, and assumptions. Even with great tools, L&D professionals often default to outdated methods.  

Participants will learn how to:  

• Identify why “teach-and-quiz” methods persist.  

• Recognize and promote contextual learning.  

• Apply adaptive leadership to shift learning mindsets.  

• Support real-world learning in the workplace.