Susan Distasio

Are you still contemplating making the move to online learning but are afraid to pull the trigger just yet? There’s nothing wrong with admitting that you prefer the traditional method of instructor-led training (ILT) – it’s a familiar training model that historically has proven to be effective. In fact, ILT is the foundation for what has become our corporate training industry today. The question that remains then is whether or not ILT is really optimal? Is ILT an optimal fit for your organization and your organization’s business objectives? Does ILT provide the optimal experience for your learners?

Perhaps transitioning is worth looking into since the use of online learning is on the rise globally – you don’t want to be left behind do you? Welcome then to the concept of “blended learning.” Blended learning is a combination of ILT and online learning, and there some really great reasons to develop a blended learning strategy that can easily be implemented through technology.

Benefits to Adopting a Blended Learning Strategy

Organizations such as yours can realize immediate cost savings when you implement a blended learning strategy. The costs associated with employees’ time off of work, training overhead expenses and administrative costs can all be immediately reduced. Additionally, you can repurpose your existing ILT course materials and move the content online, thus reducing any additional development costs.

Training can be delivered quickly and efficiently. Providing your course or reference materials online means that your employees can access and complete their required learning content far quicker than it would take for you to organize and assemble your employees for formal classroom style training. The faster your employees can learn, the greater their opportunity is to improve their performance.

Online learning can increase your employees’ knowledge retention. According to a study conducted by The Research Institute of America, online learning increases knowledge retention rates from 25% upwards to 60%. Why you may ask? Employees can learn “at-their-own-pace” and can revisit their online training as needed for a refresher.

Collaboration among employees increases, as a result of using technology to deliver training materials. Most technology platforms include online instructor chat features or social networks that are used to facilitate communication and teamwork. Collaboration, teamwork, open communications are catalysts for innovation, change and business growth.

Align your training with organizational objectives. Let’s face it, business operations are in a constant state of flux. Businesses need to react quickly to demanding environmental influences in order to remain competitive. Online training affords you the ability to be agile and focused with your efforts to help you meet your overall goals and objectives.

So you see; you don’t have to make a decision to move from ILT to online learning, you can easily migrate to a blended learning strategy instead. The benefits and the sheer potential that can arise from implementing a blended learning strategy clearly may be worth your efforts.