The Future in the Feed: Why Adults Learn on social media and Where We are Headed?

Social media has evolved into a powerful space for adult learning. Platforms like Instagram and LinkedIn are now filled with tutorials, hacks, and advice on everything from Microsoft Excel to career growth. However, what drives adults to learn in these spaces, and what might this look like in 2030?

Self-Determination Theory (Deci & Ryan, 1985) explains much of this motivation. Social media supports autonomy by letting users choose what and when they learn. It fosters competence through quick wins, like mastering a tool after a short reel, and relatedness through interactive features such as comments and shares. Similarly, Expectancy-Value Theory (Wigfield & Eccles, 2000) suggests adults are motivated when they expect success and see value in the learning, conditions that social media meets with ease and relevance.

From my perspective, by 2030, AI tutors could guide personalized learning paths based on user interactions, while virtual reality might simulate real-world scenarios for practice. I would say that gamified feedback, immersive spaces, and intentional online communities will likely enhance motivation, application, and retention.

Despite these exciting developments, remaining mindful of equity and access is important. The pandemic highlighted how digital learning can both empower and exclude. As we design the future of adult learning, we must ensure that tools and content remain inclusive, affordable, and adaptable to diverse learners’ needs and backgrounds.

Ultimately, adults are drawn to social media for learning because it is immediate, flexible, and human-centered. As we design the future, we must focus not only on innovation but also on connection, relevance, and inclusion. In 2030, meaningful learning might start with just a scroll. Do you agree? Tell me about it.

See you soon!

The Great Gatsby.



References

Deci, E. L., & Ryan, R. M. (1985). Intrinsic motivation and self-determination in human behavior. Springer.

Wigfield, A., & Eccles, J. S. (2000). Expectancy–value theory of achievement motivation. Contemporary Educational Psychology, 25(1), 68–81. https://doi.org/10.1006/ceps.1999.1015


Comments

  1. Content CreatorJuly 19, 2025 at 12:54 PM

    I give it 2 years on the Ai tutors to have wide spread impact. Mainstream by 2030 is a definite. Really makes us challenge what the role of a "teacher" is going to be in the near future.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. nickinickelzJuly 19, 2025 at 8:49 PM

      I've seen some schools where teachers are really just facilitators as the students are self-taught through AI tools. It will definitely be interesting to see how this plays out.

      Delete
  2. nickinickelzJuly 19, 2025 at 8:47 PM

    Social media has become such a rich space for adult learning. I like how you brought in Self-Determination Theory and Expectancy-Value Theory to explain the appeal. It makes a lot of sense that autonomy and relevance drive engagement. I also appreciated your point about equity. It's easy to get excited about tech advances, but access and inclusivity have to remain central.

    ReplyDelete

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