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As a corporate trainer for over 25 years, my clients that I work with are typically Multinationals and Public Sector Companies.  Many of which are moving their traditional learning format to e-learning or certainly blended learning.  This trend has increased tenfold since the pandemic.

There are many advantages to this way of learning for companies to grow and ensure their staff and moving with the times. 

  • No longer do we have to consider time zones because everyone has access to training through e-Learning platforms. 
  • Locations is no longer an issue. In the past traditional training methods would hinder remote or smaller locations as they didn’t get the training that the larger locations have access to .

Technology has played and is playing a huge part in allowing trainers to run their classes more effectively and efficiently by tracking the data and allowing them to improve the content, pass rates, performance management, time management in rolling out new training programs.  The work environment has become more productive where employees can learn at their own pace.  The options are endless with e-learning allowing the pathway to work in real time, have access to records of who took the e-Learning class and passed by using SCORM reporting to an LMS system.

As trainers we need to be aware of being the best of breed, by this I mean we need to recognise that e-Learning has its  constraints, however where necessary, traditional training need to be run side by side with e-Learning to provide the foremost learning experience.

Good Trainers recognise that discussion, live questions, and workshop exercises bring a specific exclusivity to training and learning.  We have very little influence over the users’ attention. We don’t know if they are letting the e-Learning run while texting on the phone, whether they are absent-mindedly clicking while in reality talking to the colleagues. We lack control.  However, with some teachings this is not as imperative, because we will sit a test and as long as they pass, the box is ticked.

Nevertheless, if the subject is complex and requires close attention, asynchronous e-Learning is not sufficient, even if the content is well-delivered via e-Learning.

Live virtual trainings (LVT) are an appealing alternative. Zoom, Skype are installed on individuals computers and laptops either at home or in work.  This is an excellent way of communicating and teaching in an interactive session.  Therefore, not impacting the size of the class or the location.  The learners have the ability to ask question, interact in real time.  With this method of learning we need to take into consideration time zones when proposing LVT programs. 

Let’s take a look at my company MIDAS Learning and how we have adapted to e-Learning training.  We now run our sessions through Blended (LVT’s and e-Learning) classes.   These training sessions are now requested by most if not all the companies and public bodies we work with.  On-site training session are 1 to 1 coaching’s session or specific programs tailored made for companies.  Normally, most trainings take place via Zoom, Skype for business (SfB) or Microsoft teams and using the Moodle learning platform. This has increased our portfolio of classes and allows MIDAS Learning to offer diversity in training options.  I and my tutors are able to run these sessions from wherever we happen to be, causing no inconvenience to the client.  

My portfolio can now offer our clients sessions that are live, build blended Learning and provide recorded session.  By recoding a session, we can provide this for asynchronous (various forms of digital and online learning in which learners learn from instruction) use.   By providing CPD classes it allows convivence and also allows users to upload on another mobile devise that they can watch during the commute home.   “Nobody wants to show you the hours and hours of becoming. They’d rather show the highlights of what they’ve become” – Angela Duckworth author of “Grit: Passion, Perseverance, and the Science of Success” 

In my opinion e-Learnings will always remain main platform of learning along with the many tools of training. LVT is consistently growing and requires trainers like myself to acquire new skills, such as video editing, active voice management, so that an audience remains involved and responsive throughout the session.

Why don’t companies move away from traditional training? 

It could be a lack of infrastructure. Perhaps it’s a culture thing, with a fear of losing control over your “class” of you can’t see them all.  My advice is work with professionals, see the results and ease of transitioning to Blended Learning.

Nowadays, it’s rare that we to do an onsite, traditional, lecture hall-based training sessions – it’s almost all virtual, using videoconferencing, Slack, Microsoft teams and Zoom, etc There is no lack of tools available. However, I do recognise that choice is also important and in house training will also still have a part to play but not to the extent it has in the past.

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