Virtual instructor-led training is the process of delivering e-learning courses that are led by a virtual instructor. They are also referred to as virtual classrooms or virtual learning environments. The virtual instructor is an AI-powered bot that monitors learner performance and provides real-time feedback. Virtual instructor-led training removes the barriers between students and instructors, allowing organizations to scale e-learning programs at a low cost with high adoption rates and minimal logistical support from onsite staff. This article will explore what VILT is, its benefits, how it works, different types, the technology behind it, and examples of organizations using it for their employee training programs.
What is Virtual Instructor-Led Training?
Virtual Instructor-Led Training is the practice of delivering online courses through e-learning that are led by a virtual instructor. The bot, which has been developed with complex algorithms, closely monitors the learner’s progress and presents timely feedback and instructions. Although virtual instructor-led training is a relatively new concept, it is something that organizations have been pursuing since the mid-2000s. Virtual instructor-led training is a highly scalable solution that uses AI-powered virtual instructors to facilitate courses that are delivered online, on-site or both. The approach enables organizations to increase their reach (e.g., geographically distribute their instructors) and scale their course offerings quickly.
3 Benefits of Virtual Instructor-Led Training
There are many benefits to organizations that are opting for virtual instructor-led training. These include cost savings, scalability, and flexibility. Training costs can be reduced through economies of scale, as well as the use of a centralized service. Moreover, scalability is another key benefit because organizations can easily expand the number of learners with little lead time. Additionally, virtual instructor-led training provides flexibility. Learners can access the content at their own pace, which eases the burden of having to schedule time with instructors.
How Does Virtual Instructor-Led Training work?
Virtual instructor-led training is a blended learning approach that uses AI-powered virtual instructors for live and asynchronous interactive sessions. The virtual instructor plays the role of a facilitator, providing real-time guidance and responding to learner questions and comments. These virtual instructors are monitored continuously by supervisors to ensure high-quality interactions. Virtual instructor-led training is an asynchronous approach that lets learners study on their own schedule and receive timely, contextual feedback from the instructor. This asynchronous model is helpful for learners who work full-time, have an erratic schedule, or are in different time zones.
Types of Virtual Instructor-Led Training
There are three main types of virtual instructor-led training: Live Instructor-Led Training (LILT), Blended Instructor-Led Training (BILT), and Asynchronous Instructor-Led Training (AILT). Live Instructor-Led Training (LILT) is the traditional online training model that leverages one-to-many communication through a central instructor. Blended Instructor-Led Training (BILT), on the other hand, is the combination of online and face-to-face learning. In this model, a centralized instructor uses a combination of live and asynchronous sessions to manage a large number of learners. On the other hand, asynchronous Instructor-Led Training (AILT) is a completely online training model that relies on asynchronous communication between learners and instructors. A centralized instructor manages a small number of learners and guides them through the content.
Technology Behind VILT
Simulations – Virtual instructors can guide learners through simulations of real-world scenarios to let them practice their skills in a safe environment.
Artificial Intelligence – AI-powered virtual instructors can track learners’ progress and provide tailored feedback.
Chatbots – Chatbots can be used to manage interactions, such as scheduling, grading, and feedback.
Video – Video can be used to make content more visual and engaging, as well as to let learners access content on the go.
Voice – Voice can be used to create audiobooks and podcasts to help learners study while commuting.
Cloud-Based – The technology behind virtual instructor-led training is cloud-based, so learners can access the content from any device with an internet connection.
Final Words: The Future of E-learning
There are many technological advancements that are taking e-learning to new levels of engagement, efficiency, and scalability. Some of these include the use of virtual instructor-led training, the growth of digital learning platforms, the expansion of artificial intelligence, and the rise of Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) technology. Going forward, organizations should expect more sophisticated e-learning tools and solutions as technology continues to evolve.
We Can Help
Companies that invest in employee training benefit from reduced attrition rates and hiring costs, better employee productivity, more knowledgeable employees, and a competitive hiring package. ReadyTech’s remote training software provides different ways to interact with trainers and peers, encouraging participation and active learning. We provide companies and their employees with a hosted training solution that offers hands-on, virtual training software to aid your workforce in practicing job skills.
If you are still interested in learning about virtual instructor-led training, read some best practices here. ReadyTech provides you with everything you need, and we offer a full-service setup process and 24/7 live support. Do you have questions? Contact us today.