Boise State University Launches Learning Strategy Lab

Research finds now is the time for workflow learning and performance support in the modern workplace.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 4:05am

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A softly focused, abstract photograph in warm earth tones depicting a remote workspace with a laptop, coffee mug, and other office supplies, conveying the atmosphere of a flexible work environment.Boise State's research emphasizes the need for learning strategies that support employees in the flow of their evolving remote work.Boise Today

Boise State University's Learning Strategy Lab conducted research from late 2022 to spring 2023 on the prevalence and future use of various learning technology tools. The research team interviewed industry leaders and reviewed reports, concluding that the optimal way for organizations to address the challenges of the remote modern workplace and evolving employee needs is through strong performance support and workflow learning strategies.

Why it matters

As more employees work remotely and tasks become increasingly complex, organizations need to shift their focus from formal training to providing just-in-time learning resources and performance support tools that can be accessed within the flow of work. This allows for more efficient and personalized learning experiences.

The details

The research team observed three key trends: the stark reality of the remote modern workplace due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the increasingly nuanced and evolving tasks required of employees, and the heightened responsibility of organizations to address these dual needs at scale. The team found that there is currently a lack of consensus on the definitions and applications of 'workflow learning' and 'performance support', with some viewing them as simple checklists and others recognizing them as any learning resource that assists employees in their duties. To successfully adapt, the researchers concluded that organizations must now emphasize workflow learning strategies and performance support systems, shifting the focus from 'how to perform a task' to 'how to use performance support to complete a task'.

  • The Learning Strategy Lab research was conducted from the end of 2022 through spring 2023.
  • The researchers interviewed nearly two dozen learning leaders and reviewed industry reports during this time period.

The players

Learning Strategy Lab

A research initiative at Boise State University that studied the prevalence and future use of learning technology tools.

Seth Martinez

The director of the Learning Strategy Lab at Boise State University and the author of the research findings.

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What they’re saying

“Now is the time for organizations of all kinds to emphasize learning in the flow of one's work—and thereby receive performance support—is now.”

— Seth Martinez, Director, Learning Strategy Lab at Boise State University

What’s next

The Learning Strategy Lab plans to continue researching the evolving needs of the modern workplace and how organizations can best support their employees through workflow learning and performance support strategies.

The takeaway

As the workplace continues to evolve, particularly with the rise of remote work, organizations must shift their focus from formal training to providing personalized, just-in-time learning resources and performance support tools that can be accessed within the flow of an employee's work. This will allow for more efficient and effective learning experiences that address the unique needs of today's workforce.