Which Training Delivery Method is Best for Your L&D Programme?
Over the past decade advances in technology have resulted in a fast-paced evolution of training delivery methods. As the corporate training market explodes with training delivery modalities, we firmly believe that the best approach for Learning & Development professionals is not simply the latest training delivery method but the right training delivery method for their needs.
Face to Face Instructor-Led Training
Instructor-led training, or classroom training, is the most traditional form of training, best leveraged for creating an overall understanding of the training topic. Face to Face training is still the training modality most preferred by learners, with 55% of learners reporting a preference for this method. Face to face delivery is highly personalised and can be easily adapted in real-time to suit the group of learners. This is a fantastic option where courses seek to develop practical and communication skills as it allows learners to put knowledge and skills to the test, through classroom or site-based activities. Instructor-led learning in small groups enables learners to work together as a team to gain knowledge and improve skills. Trainers use a variety of techniques to enhance the learning experience, such as practical demonstrations, videos, presentations, role-playing, exercises and games. Teams of learners can share ideas, work in groups, problem solve, and debate with their peers. It’s also ideal for bonding and team building.
eLearning
In essence, eLearning refers to education and training delivered via any digital platform. It encompasses a wide spectrum of online learning techniques and has completely transformed how learning is delivered. Advantages include:
Accessibility – Online learning gives employees the freedom to enhance their skills at a time best suited to them, regardless of what industry they work in or how busy their schedule is. Completely mobile and flexible, the digital revolution has proved itself as an attractive alternative for businesses. When it comes to learning, there is no “one size fits all”; eLearning accommodates different learning styles, allowing individuals to work at a pace that suits them, in an environment free from the intimidation and anxiety that some may experience in a classroom situation. Modules can be presented using a variety of multi-media, including, video audio, text and imagery, this enriches the learner’s experiences and has been proven to maximise the retention of information.
Quick Delivery of Lessons – A key advantage to the eLearning journey is the speed at which lessons can be created, delivered, and completed. The elimination of practical factors, such as trainers, locations, and conflicting schedules, dramatically reduces roll-out time. With instant access to courses, and immediate feedback and results, the cycle time for training courses is minimised considerably.
Consistency – All learners receive a standardised level of training. Online courses are carefully tailored to meet the needs of the target audience, this allows for educators to produce a degree of consistency not previously achievable through traditional delivery of instruction.
Reduced Costs – There is no doubt that eLearning is a cost-effective alternative to traditional classroom-based studying. eLearning eliminates costly travel and accommodation expenses and reduces time spent away from the workplace. Digital learning ensures that companies can remain compliant, whilst keeping their training budget down to a manageable level.
Lower impacts on the Environment – In a society increasingly focused on sustainability, eLearning is an eco-friendly way of educating. Studies indicate that distance-based, paperless training courses generate 85% less CO2 emissions than traditional classroom-based courses.
Blended Learning
With blended learning, a combination of delivery strategies are developed, ensuring that every learner retains information. A blended learning approach is perfect for organisations with diverse training requirements.
Blended learning courses combine the benefits of both online and face-to-face learning, typically via a series of self-study and guided learning activities. In a blended learning course, learners make their way through learning activities which might include: reading course literature, watching video demonstrations or animated process overviews, engaging in discussions, and practising new skills.
Virtual Classrooms
While face to face continues to be popular, advancements in technology have propelled the use of virtual classrooms, or virtual instructor-led training (VILT). Virtual classrooms enable organizations to deliver training in the form of text, video and documents in real-time. They can deliver training from anywhere, and learners can attend the session from wherever they are located, saving organizations valuable time and money on logistics and venues. Good virtual trainers can still offer a human touch.
Virtual instructor-led training is most effective when organizations have to train a larger group, but there is no dedicated venue, or the learners (and instructor) are geographically dispersed. It is also only effective when the organization has good tech support available to the trainer and the learners.
