When you take inventory of modern learning solutions, you can’t ignore the digital divide. There’s the tried-and-true in-person instructor-led training (ILT). Then there’s a host of impactful digitally powered solutions, like virtual instructor-led training (VILT), eLearning, and video
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In this article, we’ll provide clear definitions of ILT and its digital cousins, and we’ll note important considerations for building a program anchored in each solution.Instructor-Led TrainingYou can’t call something a blast from the past if it never faded away. Instead, you might call something like ILT a gift from the get-go. Instructor-led training, or ILT for short, is a training modality that occurs in person and involves a trainer and/or facilitator guiding a group of learners through the session (trainers are usually subject matter experts, while facilitators don’t have to be). Pros of Instructor-Led TrainingThough some might imagine ILT training as lots of lectures and one-sided presentations, it offers much more. Dynamic Experiential Learning Access
to Subject Matter Experts Real-time Feedback for Facilitators Cons of Instructor-Led Training (ILT)Ultimately, the challenges of ILT become a factor if you’re looking to scale an ILT program to a large number of learners. Not Easily Repeatable High Cost and Complicated Logistics
If you intend to scale an ILT program or use it as your primary vehicle for every training topic, those days of lost productivity — and the other costs — will add up. Consistency of Experience When Instructor-Led Training Works BestWhen you
consider that virtual reality training achieves cost parity with classroom training at 375 learners (and grows more cost-effective from there), the limitations of scaling ILT are clear. When done correctly, ILT is an extremely
productive way to drive behavior change in your employees. It puts them alongside subject matter experts or folks who at least know the material very well. It just might not be feasible as the sole training solution for reaching all employees regarding every single topic. Virtual Instructor-Led Training (VILT)As technology advanced, other training solutions took root in learning and development. Let’s address some popular digital alternatives to ILT, starting with its closest cousin — VILT. Virtual instructor-led training, or VILT for short, is precisely what it sounds like. Leveraging video conferencing tools like Skype, Slack, Microsoft Teams, Google Meet, and GoToMeeting, VILT lets you take the classroom dynamic online. It retains the real-time and synchronous elements of ILT while shedding the in-person aspect. Pros of Virtual Instructor-Led TrainingThe benefits of VILT stem from its capacity for remote access, as well as its similar structure to ILT. Cost-Effective
Training Convenient Remote Option Tools to Engage Learners Cons of Virtual Instructor-Led TrainingWhile VILT offers affordable and convenient training (and thus can be easier to scale), it can — if unaccounted for — produce a lower-quality learning experience. The format is so closely related to ILT that many organizations have converted their ILT sessions to VILT. Sometimes, they do so to experiment. Other times, a global pandemic forces them to convert. Regardless, it’s a task that should be done with care, as VILT also presents challenges. Little Control Over Learners’ Environment Facilitators Can’t Assess
Nonverbal Cues Fewer Opportunities For Application All those realities can have a genuine impact on knowledge retention. When Virtual Instructor-Led Training Works BestWhile those challenges are real, VILT is far from a lost cause. The key is to design VILT so that it remains conducive to
achieving learning objectives. Some essential ways to do so include:
If you follow those guidelines and others, you can deliver VILT that is cost-effective, convenient, and a catalyst for behavior change.
eLearningThough the term eLearning technically refers to learning that happens via electronic and digital channels, the learning and development industry means something specific when touting it as a modern training solution. Namely, eLearning is an online training that is:
It is defined less by the technology that powers it and more by the style of learning it offers. Pros of eLearningIf you’re deciding between eLearning, ILT, or VILT for a corporate training program, you’re ultimately picking between asynchronous learning or synchronous learning. We explore the virtues and drawbacks of each in our detailed comparison, but here are some key benefits of eLearning. Learners Go at Their Own Pace Convenient and Cost-Effective Learners Fit Training Into Their Schedule Cons of eLearningDespite those benefits, eLearning does have its complications, mostly concerning the learner being alone. Learners May Feel Isolated Issues With Self-discipline and
Time Management Not Everyone is Tech Savvy When eLearning Works BesteLearning works best when you keep it simple, engaging, and user-centric. In that spirit, you could:
Additionally, ensure the user experience is as intuitive as possible. Learners are already there to think about the subject matter; don’t make them think about navigating the module. Make sure you or your eLearning vendor perform multiple rounds of quality assurance testing to yield an error-free
module. READ MORE: How to Develop an eLearning Program for Your Company Video LearningSome things are easier shown than said. Therein lies the draw of video learning, or training that is delivered through video. Organizations can use video learning to show learners exactly how to do something. That “something” may not be hard to do, but it’s usually hard to explain verbally or in writing. If you teach a topic or task more efficiently by showing it, you likely could use video learning. Pros of Video LearningThere are many benefits of video learning. We highlight a few here. Video Can Boost Engagement It Can Improve Performance
Video Learning Can Be Easily
Scaled Cons of Video LearningThere are a few caveats to video learning. You Need High-Quality Video Video Alone May Not Suffice Not Great For Abstract Concepts When Video Learning Works BestAs with VILT, the challenges inherent in video learning don’t make it a
lost cause. In fact, video learning ROI can be extraordinary. The challenges just mean you need to consider video learning carefully before committing to it.
ILT vs. Digital Training Programs: It’s All Here To StayAll the training solutions we covered in this article will remain part of learning and development for a long time. We hope we helped to illuminate each one’s unique benefits and challenges. The key is to match your solution to your specific audience, topic, and learning needs. As is always the case, your training programs don’t have to rely only on one solution. A blended learning program may be the best approach. Want to debrief or talk things through regarding your training projects? Have more questions about ILT, VILT, eLearning, or video learning? Send us a note, and we’ll help you to determine your best training options.
Is blended learning better than face to face learning?When it comes to sustained learning programs—those that take place over time—a blended learning strategy can offer several benefits: Learning that is both cost-effective and more effective at reaching larger numbers of learners in remote areas. Learning that supports structured practice little and often over time.
What is a feature of learner control?What is a feature of learner control? It allows learners to assimilate information without being physically present. It allows learners to assimilate information without being physically present.
Which of the following is least supported by E Learning quizlet?Which of the following is LEAST supported by e-learning? Repurposing refers to directlly translating an instructor-led, face-to-face training program online. Online learning that merely repurposes an ineffective program will remain ineffective.
What refers to learning that is learner initiated?Informal Learning. Refers to learning that is learner initiated, involves action and doing, is motivated by an intent to develop, and does not occur in a formal setting.
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