How to create learner personas in 5 steps (free template download)

In this post we’ll cover:

1. What are learner personas (and why create them)?
2. How to create learner personas (and avoid common mistakes)
3. Where to get our free Learner Personas Template

What are learner personas (and why create them)?

A learner persona is a semi-fictional representation of your ideal learner based on data and insights. It drives the personalization of learning experiences and makes your content relevant and engaging.

In the must-watch MicrolearningConf session by Arpita Pal, she outlined 6 learner personas that they create training content for at Inova Health.

How to create learner personas (and avoid common mistakes)

Creating learner personas is a pivotal step in designing effective microlearning content that truly resonates. But how do you get started? Let’s break it down.

1. Gather learner data

Dive into the data pool about your learners. Use surveys, interviews, and analytics to get a complete picture.

Explanation

Start with understanding who your learners are. The more data you have, the clearer your learner personas will be.

Example

Run a survey asking about job roles, learning preferences, challenges, and goals. Ask questions like “What are your biggest challenges at work?” and “What motivates you to learn?”

Pitfalls to avoid

Relying solely on assumptions without data. Always back your personas with real information.

• Action tip 1: Look at existing learning analytics and performance data.
• Action tip 2: Schedule interviews or focus groups with a diverse group of learners.

2. Identify common themes

Look for patterns in the data you’ve collected. What are the shared goals and challenges?

Explanation

Group similar themes or traits together. These could be job roles, learning preferences, or shared challenges they face. This will help you identify your core learner personas.

Example

You might find that new hires and experienced staff have different learning needs (even if they’re performing the same job) and so you create separate personas for these two cases.

Pitfalls to avoid

Overgeneralizing and overlooking minor details. Ensure you group learners based on specific and relevant traits. Resist defaulting to common (and harmful) stereotypes.

• Action tip 1: Group your data into categories (you may want to use a mindmap).
• Action tip 2: Narrow down your groupings into 3-6 specific learner personas.

3. Create detailed profiles

Build detailed profiles for each persona. Include not just demographics and job roles, but also: goals, challenges, learning preferences, and proficiency levels (with technology and English).

Explanation

By developing a comprehensive profile, you’ll capture the essence of each learner type, which will help you to create more effective microlearning training.

Example

Meet "Nurse Nancy," a 35-year-old registered nurse with 10 years of experience. She values just-in-time learning with actionable tips she can apply now.

Pitfalls to avoid

Creating too many personas. Focus on a few key personas that represent the majority of your learners.

• Action tip 1: Use a template (like this one) to standardize information across personas.
• Action tip 2: Include a photo and/or quote to help bring that character to life.

4. Update them regularly

Your learner personas should evolve with your learners. Regularly review and update them to stay relevant. And consider getting feedback from real learners to ensure accuracy.

Explanation

Keeping your personas updated ensures they continue to reflect the real needs and preferences of your learners.

Example

If you notice a new trend, like an increase in mobile learning, update your personas to reflect this preference.

Pitfalls to avoid

Forgetting to update personas. As your learners evolve, so should your personas.

• Action tip 1: Use 7taps forms to collect feedback from your learners.
• Action tip 2: Meet with stakeholders to discuss any changes in learner needs, and use these insights to update your personas accordingly.

5. Put your personas to use!

Keep your personas at the forefront when designing learning programs.

Explanation

By referring to your personas throughout the design process, you can tailor content to their needs and preferences. This way you’ll be able to create training that is more effective and engaging (and sticky).

Example

When creating microlearning modules, think about what "Nurse Nancy" would find useful and engaging.

Pitfalls to avoid

Ignoring your personas and creating generic content. With 7taps you can quickly duplicate your courses and then swap out key things to better appeal to each learner persona type.

• Action tip 1: Keep your personas somewhere visible when creating training materials.
• Action tip 2: Reference your persona profiles in planning meetings and content reviews.

By following these steps, you can create learner personas that guide your microlearning design and ensure your content hits the mark every time.

Where to get our free Learner Personas Template

The more you understand your learners, the more effective your microlearning will be.

Get started on crafting your learner personas today by downloading this free template!

Get your free learner persona template →

Creating learner personas is just the first step in effective training content. The next step is to incorporate microlearning for efficiency, engagement, and on-the-job training that delights.

Want to see how this all works? Get started today with a free trial of 7taps or get in touch with us.

Additional resources:

• Boost corporate communication with microlearning: from strategy to tools
• How to write microlearning content with the 5 B’s framework
• Driving learner engagement with microlearning
• New microlearning product updates, available in 7taps
• Track learner progress using Single Sign-On
• Set up automated learning campaigns with 7taps learning paths
• Gamify your next microlearning project
• Orchestrate your microlearning pilot

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