Having worked in the health and social care and training sectors in excess of 30 years, I am well aware of the difficulties organisations and managers face in relation to training, these include space constraints, cost and compliance issues, and staff absences, to name just a few.
For a number of years, online learning has been frowned upon, often because of the negative connotation of the click through course model, where the learner merely clicks through a number of static slides to an endpoint where a certificate of attendance is received. Thankfully online learning has moved on a lot from this point with online courses containing interactive content, video and both formative and summative assessments. Not to mention the ability of organisations to view metrics and data on each individual learner, often identifying knowledge gaps and enabling more targeted individualised training plans.
So, what are the benefits of Online learning?
There are no doubts that there are some more technical, in-depth practical training that, despite the increasingly interactive nature of on-line courses, remain more suited to the classroom environment, however, it is still possible to utilise online content using blended learning.
Flexibility
It doesn’t matter if the learner works days, nights or evenings, or if they have other commitments, the course can be accessed and completed around these. Materials are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, therefore it gives the ultimate in flexibility and convenience in relation to location as well as time.
Reduction in cost
Online training is more cost-effective for organisations, it can help decrease costs not only in line with the course cost itself but the costs that surround the training such as travel, venue, and shift cover. The training can be attended at a time suitable for the individual, unlike booking a face to face onsite course where if a member of staff cannot attend for any reason then another training would need to be organised.
More focus
The individuals learning style will have an impact on how well that individual absorbs information, within a classroom setting with a wide range of learning styles and ability levels it can be hard to keep the focus of all, even when offering extension activities. Online learning enables all learners to work at their own pace, reviewing the information provided multiple times if needed. This, coupled with the ability to use social media to discuss course content with other learners and the assigned tutor, can only lead to an enhanced learning experience.
Consistent learning
Using online materials ensures that all learners receive the same quality of materials and information, unlike some face to face training where the information provided by one trainer will differ from that given by another.
Measurable evidenced outcomes
Enables measurable feedback on attainment and knowledge, using summative and formative assessment data and course analytics; which can vary dependent on the individual organisations requirements from time spent on course, questions answered correctly to overall attainment levels.
Group management
Training In Partnership are able to provide organisations with their own group management area where these statistics can be viewed on-demand.
Online learning doesn’t have to be just multiple question answers, it also encompasses distance learning options where the course is completed at the learner’s pace using online content, but the open assignment/essay-style questions are marked by a tutor, and feedback is given before any certificate is received.
As with all methods of learning online has its disadvantages, but on the whole, with good management, a level of online training will be of benefit to learners and form a great addition to face to face or virtual classroom training.
Why not contact us for more information or visit or online courses page.
