Neon Elephant Award 2025

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21 December 2025

Neon Elephant Award Announcement

Dr. Will Thalheimer, Consultant, Researcher, Speaker at Work-Learning Research, announces the winner of the 2025 Neon Elephant Award, given this year to Matt Beane for his book, The Skill Code: How to Save Human Ability in the Age of Intelligent Machines—and for his many years researching how humans do work interacting with machines and the people with whom they work.

Click here to learn more about the Neon Elephant Award…

 

2025 Award Winner – Matt Beane

Matt Beane is a researcher and entrepreneur working at the intersection of human performance and intelligent machines, including AI. He is an assistant professor in UC Santa Barbara’s Technology Management Program and has conducted extensive research on how people build skill in work shaped by AI, robotics, and simulation.

In The Skill Code, Beane warns that “intelligent” tools can quietly weaken the expert–novice relationships—apprenticeship dynamics—that grow capability. This is especially relevant to those of us in Learning and Development as we rush to help our organizations adopt AI. Beane shows how we can redesign work so technology strengthens (rather than erodes) skill development.

For L&D professionals, his work translates directly into practical design principles for building expertise at scale: protecting learning-by-doing, preserving coaching access, and ensuring technology adoption doesn’t accidentally starve the future talent pipeline.

Matt is also a co-founder of SkillBench (Tacitly’s SkillBench platform), which focuses on helping organizations understand and manage how new technologies affect skill and performance.

Notable contributions from Matt Beane:

We in Learning and Development have talked for years about workflow learning, informal learning, and on-the-job learning. Too often, however, we’ve underemphasized the role of apprenticeship—learning that is powered by access to experts, coached practice, and the gradual assumption of real responsibility.

Beane reminds us that when complex work loses healthy expert–novice connections, novices don’t just learn more slowly—they can end up much less capable than they should be. And in the AI revolution now underway, that risk may grow, not shrink, unless we deliberately design work to protect how skill is built. With his research and practical guidance, Matt Beane shines a bright, much-needed light on our work—and on the future of human development.

 

Click here to learn more about the Neon Elephant Award…

Book: Peak by K. Anders Ericsson and Robert Pool

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Peak: Secrets from the New Science of Expertise by K. Anders Ericsson and Robert Pool

In Peak: Secrets from the New Science of Expertise, K. Anders Ericsson and Robert Pool delve into the concept of deliberate practice, a methodical approach to skill development that emphasizes purposeful and systematic training. The authors argue that exceptional performance is less about innate talent and more about dedicated, structured practice. They provide practical advice on setting specific goals, obtaining immediate feedback, and maintaining motivation, all aimed at fostering continuous improvement. Through a blend of scientific research and real-world examples, the book illustrates how deliberate practice can be applied across various domains, including the workplace, sports, and personal endeavors, to achieve high levels of expertise.

Anders Ericsson was a Swedish psychologist renowned for his research on the psychological nature of expertise and human performance. As a Conradi Eminent Scholar and Professor of Psychology at Florida State University, he studied expert performance in fields such as medicine, music, chess, and sports, focusing on how extended deliberate practice leads to superior performance. His work has significantly influenced our understanding of skill acquisition and the development of expertise.

Robert Pool is a science writer with a background in mathematics and physics. He has authored and co-authored several books, translating complex scientific concepts into accessible narratives for the general public. His collaboration with Ericsson in Peak brings together rigorous research and engaging storytelling to explore the science of expertise.

Workplace learning professionals will find actionable value in this book through its evidence-based insights into skill development. By understanding and applying the principles of deliberate practice, instructional designers, trainers, and e-learning developers can create more effective training programs that promote continuous improvement and high performance among employees. The practical strategies outlined in Peak offer a roadmap for cultivating expertise within organizational settings.

Book: Evidence-Based Training Methods by Ruth Colvin Clark

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Evidence-Based Training Methods: A Guide for Training Professionals by Ruth Colvin Clark

In Evidence-Based Training Methods, Ruth Colvin Clark provides a comprehensive guide for instructional designers and trainers seeking to ground their practices in scientific research. The book debunks prevalent training myths and offers evidence-based strategies to enhance learning effectiveness. Clark covers topics such as the efficacy of different instructional methods, the role of feedback, and the use of multimedia in training. The third edition includes updated research on feedback mechanisms, the application of animations in critical thinking exercises, and insights into the effectiveness of games in learning. With practical examples and actionable guidance, this resource bridges the gap between research and practice, enabling professionals to design training programs that truly improve performance.

Ruth Colvin Clark is a specialist in instructional design and technical training, dedicated to translating academic research into practical applications for workforce learning. She holds a doctorate in instructional psychology and has served as a training manager for Southern California Edison before founding Clark Training & Consulting. Clark has authored several influential books, including e-Learning and the Science of Instruction and Building Expertise, focusing on applying research findings to practical instructional design. Her work is renowned for making complex research accessible and actionable for practitioners.

Workplace learning professionals will find actionable value in this book through its clear, research-backed guidance on designing effective training programs. By applying Clark’s evidence-based methodologies, instructional designers and trainers can debunk common myths and implement strategies that enhance learning outcomes. The practical tools and insights offered make it an essential resource for those aiming to create impactful and scientifically grounded training interventions within organizations.

Book: Building Expertise by Ruth Colvin Clark

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Building Expertise: Cognitive Methods for Training and Performance Improvement by Ruth Colvin Clark

In Building Expertise, Ruth Colvin Clark delves into the cognitive psychology principles that underpin effective instructional design. The book offers evidence-based guidelines to help instructional designers, course developers, and facilitators accelerate the development of expertise within their organizations. Clark summarizes psychological theories concerning how instructional methods support human learning processes and translates that evidence into practical strategies. Filled with updated research and illustrative examples, this resource provides trainers with tools to create learning experiences that foster genuine expertise.

Ruth Colvin Clark is an instructional design expert with over three decades of experience in developing evidence-based training materials for the workforce. She has authored several influential books, including e-Learning and the Science of Instruction and Developing Technical Training, focusing on applying research findings to practical instructional design. Clark’s work is renowned for translating complex research into actionable strategies for practitioners.

Workplace learning professionals will find actionable value in this book through its clear, research-backed guidance on designing instruction that effectively builds expertise. By applying Clark’s methodologies, instructional designers and trainers can develop training programs that not only convey information but also enhance learners’ ability to apply knowledge and skills in real-world situations, leading to improved performance and organizational success.

Book: e-Learning and the Science of Instruction by Ruth Colvin Clark and Richard E. Mayer

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e-Learning and the Science of Instruction: Proven Guidelines for Consumers and Designers of Multimedia Learning by Ruth Colvin Clark and Richard E. Mayer

In e-Learning and the Science of Instruction, Ruth Colvin Clark and Richard E. Mayer present a comprehensive guide that bridges the gap between cognitive science research and practical e-learning design. The book offers evidence-based principles for creating effective multimedia instruction, emphasizing the importance of aligning content with human cognitive processes. Key topics include best practices for integrating visuals, audio, and text; strategies to avoid cognitive overload; and methods to enhance learner engagement through well-designed examples and practice exercises. This resource serves as an essential manual for instructional designers aiming to develop e-learning courses that are both engaging and educationally effective.

Ruth Colvin Clark is an instructional design expert with over three decades of experience in developing evidence-based training materials for the workforce. She has authored several influential books, including Scenario-Based e-Learning and Evidence-Based Training, focusing on applying research findings to practical instructional design. Clark’s work is renowned for translating complex research into actionable strategies for practitioners.

Richard E. Mayer is a distinguished professor of psychology at the University of California, Santa Barbara, specializing in educational psychology. He is internationally recognized for his research in multimedia learning and has authored numerous publications, such as Multimedia Learning and The Cambridge Handbook of Multimedia Learning. Mayer’s work focuses on how people learn from words and pictures and how to design educational materials that promote effective learning.

Book: Telling Training’s Story by Robert O. Brinkerhoff

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Telling Training’s Story: Evaluation Made Simple, Credible, and Effective by Robert O. Brinkerhoff

In Telling Training’s Story, Robert O. Brinkerhoff introduces the Success Case Method (SCM), a straightforward and effective approach for evaluating the impact of training programs. SCM focuses on identifying and analyzing instances where training has led to significant performance improvements, providing concrete evidence of its effectiveness. The book offers practical guidance on implementing SCM, including real-world examples, tools, and checklists, enabling organizations to assess and communicate the value of their training initiatives confidently.

Robert O. Brinkerhoff is an internationally recognized expert in evaluation and training effectiveness. He has provided consultation to numerous major companies and organizations across various sectors, including corporate, government, and non-profit. Brinkerhoff earned his doctorate at the University of Virginia in program evaluation and has served as a professor of Counseling Psychology at Western Michigan University, where he coordinated graduate programs in human resource development. He is also a principal consultant and alliance partner with Advantage Performance Group, focusing on enhancing training impact through effective evaluation methods.

Workplace learning professionals will find actionable value in this book through its clear, research-backed guidance on evaluating training programs. By applying the Success Case Method, instructional designers and trainers can identify successful training applications, understand the factors contributing to their success, and leverage these insights to improve future learning interventions. This approach not only demonstrates the tangible benefits of training but also provides a framework for continuous improvement in learning and development initiatives.

Book: Criterion-Referenced Test Development by Sharon A. Shrock and William C. Coscarelli

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Criterion-Referenced Test Development: Technical and Legal Guidelines for Corporate Training by Sharon A. Shrock and William C. Coscarelli

In Criterion-Referenced Test Development, Sharon A. Shrock and William C. Coscarelli provide a comprehensive guide for developing criterion-referenced tests (CRTs) tailored to corporate training environments. The book offers step-by-step instructions on constructing valid and reliable assessments that align with specific job competencies. Key topics include test construction, item formats, scoring methods, reliability and validation techniques, test administration, and score reporting. The authors also address legal and liability considerations, ensuring that assessments meet professional and ethical standards. This resource is essential for professionals aiming to create effective evaluations that accurately measure learner performance and support organizational objectives.

Sharon A. Shrock is a professor of Instructional Design and Technology at Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, where she coordinates graduate programs in instructional design and instructional technology. She has served as co-director of the Hewlett-Packard World Wide Test Development Center and is a past president of the Association for Educational Communications and Technology’s Division of Instructional Development. Shrock has contributed extensively to the field through her work on editorial boards of major academic journals in instructional design.

William C. Coscarelli is a professor specializing in Instructional Design at Southern Illinois University, Carbondale. He has co-directed the Hewlett-Packard World Wide Test Development Center and has held leadership positions, including president of the International Society for Performance Improvement and the Association for Educational Communications and Technology’s Division for Instructional Development. Coscarelli was the founding editor of Performance Improvement Quarterly and served as the first vice-president of Publications for ISPI.

Workplace learning professionals will find actionable value in this book through its detailed guidance on creating assessments that are both legally sound and effective in measuring job-specific competencies. By following the authors’ evidence-based methodologies, instructional designers and trainers can develop CRTs that provide accurate evaluations of learner performance, thereby enhancing training effectiveness and supporting organizational goals. The inclusion of practical examples and updated legal guidelines makes this resource particularly relevant for those responsible for assessment development in corporate settings.

Book: Make It Stick by Peter C. Brown, Henry L. Roediger III, and Mark A. McDaniel

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Make It Stick: The Science of Successful Learning by Peter C. Brown, Henry L. Roediger III, and Mark A. McDaniel

In Make It Stick, the authors challenge conventional wisdom about effective learning strategies, presenting evidence-based techniques that enhance long-term retention and application. They argue that common practices like rereading and cramming are less effective than methods such as retrieval practice, spaced repetition, and interleaving different topics. By incorporating real-world examples and scientific research, the book provides practical guidance on how to make learning more durable and impactful. This resource is invaluable for professionals seeking to design training programs that foster meaningful and lasting learning experiences.

Peter C. Brown is a writer and novelist with a keen interest in cognitive psychology and learning science. Collaborating with cognitive psychologists, he has co-authored works that translate complex scientific research into accessible insights for practical application.

Henry L. Roediger III is a renowned cognitive psychologist specializing in human learning and memory. As a professor at Washington University in St. Louis, his research has significantly advanced the understanding of memory retrieval processes and their implications for effective learning strategies.

Mark A. McDaniel is a distinguished professor of psychology at Washington University in St. Louis, focusing on human learning and memory. His extensive research includes exploring prospective memory and applying cognitive psychology principles to educational contexts, contributing to more effective instructional practices.

Workplace learning professionals will find actionable value in this book through its clear, research-backed guidance on designing learning experiences that promote long-term retention and skill application. By implementing strategies such as retrieval practice and spaced repetition, instructional designers and trainers can enhance the effectiveness of their programs, leading to improved employee performance and organizational success.

Book: Practice and Feedback for Deeper Learning by Patti Shank, PhD

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Practice and Feedback for Deeper Learning: 26 Evidence-Based and Easy-to-Apply Tactics That Promote Deeper Learning and Application by Patti Shank, PhD

In Practice and Feedback for Deeper Learning, Patti Shank delves into the critical components of effective instruction: practice and feedback. She presents five overarching strategies and 26 specific, evidence-based tactics designed to foster deeper learning and facilitate the application of knowledge in real-world settings. Shank emphasizes the importance of creating meaningful practice opportunities and delivering constructive feedback to enhance retention and performance. The book is replete with practical examples, checklists, and job aids, making it an invaluable resource for instructional designers and educators aiming to implement research-backed methods to improve learning outcomes.

Patti Shank, PhD, is an internationally recognized workplace learning expert, instructional designer, researcher, and author. She has been cited as one of the most influential people in evidence-informed instructional design. With a PhD from the University of Colorado, Denver, her research on online learners has received accolades, including an EDMEDIA best research paper award. Shank has authored several notable books, such as Write and Organize for Deeper Learning and Manage Memory for Deeper Learning, which focus on evidence-based tactics to enhance instructional effectiveness. Beyond writing, she facilitates online courses aimed at improving assessment design and learning outcomes.

Workplace learning professionals will find actionable value in this book through its clear, research-backed guidance on designing practice activities and feedback mechanisms that promote deeper learning. By applying Shank’s strategies and tactics, instructional designers, trainers, and e-learning developers can create learning experiences that not only engage learners but also ensure the transfer of knowledge and skills to the workplace, leading to improved performance and organizational success.

Book: Write and Organize for Deeper Learning by Patti Shank, PhD

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Write and Organize for Deeper Learning: 28 Evidence-Based and Easy-to-Apply Tactics That Will Make Your Instruction Better for Learning by Patti Shank, PhD

In Write and Organize for Deeper Learning, Patti Shank offers a practical guide for instructional designers and educators aiming to enhance the effectiveness of their learning materials. The book presents four key strategies: understanding the audience’s needs, writing for clarity, making text readable and legible, and organizing content for memory and use. Within these strategies, Shank outlines 28 evidence-based tactics, providing actionable steps to improve instructional writing. Each tactic is accompanied by examples, checklists, and job aids, making it easy for practitioners to apply these principles to their own work. This resource is designed to help create instructional content that is not only informative but also engaging and conducive to deeper learning.

Patti Shank, PhD, is an internationally recognized workplace learning expert, instructional designer, researcher, and author. She has been cited as one of the most influential people in evidence-informed instructional design. With a PhD from the University of Colorado, Denver, her research on online learners has received accolades, including an EDMEDIA best research paper award. Shank has authored several notable books, such as Write Better Multiple-Choice Questions to Assess Learning and Manage Memory for Deeper Learning, which focus on evidence-based tactics to enhance instructional effectiveness. Beyond writing, she facilitates online courses aimed at improving assessment design and learning outcomes.

Workplace learning professionals will find actionable value in this book through its clear, research-backed guidance on crafting instructional content that promotes deeper learning. By applying Shank’s strategies and tactics, instructional designers, trainers, and e-learning developers can create materials that are more accessible, engaging, and effective, leading to improved learner retention and performance outcomes. The practical tools and insights offered make it an essential resource for enhancing the quality and impact of workplace learning initiatives.