Live Training or ELearning?

By: Justin Ferriman • February 13, 2014
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quizthumbEvery training program is different. There are different objectives, audiences, budgets, and so on. Knowing this, it is important to remember that each training should not be addressed in the same manner.

People naturally prefer formulas and systems because they remove the need for thinking. Despite the various theoretic approaches to training design, it cannot be color-by-numbers. This also applies to the method of delivery.

Some training calls for elearning, while others is best suited for live training events.

Many people prefer to create elearning because it is more cost effective in the long-term. However, this is not always the case. Learning programs tat are higher in complexity often benefit from live training instruction.

So Which Format Should You Use?

The content of your training will dictate the method of delivery. If the training is complex in nature, or it is attempting to elicit a massive change in behavior, then live training is almost a necessity. This doesn’t mean that the entire training initiative needs to be done in-person, but certainly some will.

One good strategy is to use elearning to deliver prep-courses prior to a live training event. This is a good way to present high-level concepts and to field early questions.

When the live training session is administered, the participants are already aware of what it is they will be learning. The live training can then be mostly dedicated to hands-on activities and simulations.

Once live training is done, it is also a good idea to follow-up with additional elearning in the effort to solidify the course content. Keeping the elearning programs to one hour is ideal since it maximizes the probability of participation. Remember, people have other jobs to do as well.

Before creating any training program, be sure to accurately assess the situation to determine the best way forward.

Elearning is great in many situations, but not all of the time. Sure it can save money in the long-term, but if people are poorly trained because the elearning doesn’t do an adequate job in presenting the new information, then you will ultimately lose money in the end.

Justin Ferriman

Justin started LearnDash, the WordPress LMS trusted by Fortune 500 companies, major universities, training organizations, and entrepreneurs worldwide. He is currently founder & CEO of GapScout. Justin’s Homepage | GapScout | Twitter