The world of L&D has undergone many changes over the last year. One of the most significant changes includes rapid digital transformations, the emergence of the hybrid workplace, and the growing demand for reskilling. Effective employee training programs are needed to close skills gaps and increase productivity. In fact, 61% of organizations are currently working on closing skills gaps this year(1).
Each of these factors has played a large role in shaping employee training today. Along with the many other changes that have recently occurred, training course design and delivery best practices have also changed. To help organizations better understand the most up-to-date training delivery trends and practices, we have shared some of the top practices modern organizations should know about.Create Learning Experiences for the Hybrid WorkforceThere is simply no denying that Covid19 changed the way the modern workforce operates today. More organizations have embraced flexible work environments than expected over the last year. While this change was initially brought on by safety restrictions, many organizations are planning to continue to offer remote options for their employees as we move forward. 82% of leaders plan to allow employees to work remotely, at least part of the time (2).
You can improve business resilience and develop successful learning plans for the future by creating remote-friendly training programs. In-person or face-to-face instruction creates barriers for remote learners. Online learning programs allow businesses to continue to train employees no matter their location. Mobile learning, VILT, and scenario-based simulations are all effective strategies that enable businesses to train employees in hybrid environments.Maximize Engagement with Social Learning ExperiencesUtilizing training delivery methods that promote social interaction and collaboration significantly improves levels of engagement. Social interaction has become increasingly important over the last year. Employees today feel more isolated at work than ever before. Recent research has shown that 37% of employees currently feel less connected to their peers (3).
The most effective training programs are designed to increase engagement. Integrating types of training that enable employees to chat, communicate, and even compete in a friendly way can keep employees engaged. It also can help your employees feel more connected to their peers. 92% of leaders shared that social types of training delivery helped learners develop a sense of belonging (3). What is more interesting is that employees who feel a sense of belonging are five times more likely to be engaged (3).Increase Training Relevancy with Personalized Learning JourneysEnterprise organizations often need to provide training content for employees in different roles, locations and for those who varying levels of experience. In these cases, a one size fits all approach to training is likely to result in low levels of engagement.
This can be prevented altogether by designing and delivering personalized learning experiences. Creating training programs that provide learning tracks for different user types significantly increases content relevance. This instructional design approach is also a valuable tool when it comes to speeding up time to competency.Integrate Learning into the Flow of WorkAnother way you can remove barriers is by using training delivery methods that enable learners to work learning into their daily workflow. 61% of participants in a recent survey shared that time prevents their teams from being able to upskill (4).
Integrating training delivery methods and strategies that provide flexibility can make all the difference. Some of the most effective ways you can create space for learning by design include the following.
Microlearning
This approach to training design breaks down each piece of content into short, engaging learning modules. These learning modules are highly specific and can be completed in minutes. This makes it easier for learners to make time for training. It also saves time by improving course relevance. Learners can choose to take courses that they need.
EPSS tools
Electronic performance support systems are a highly effective tool that can help learners use new software or processes on the job. These programs walk learners through each step with icons and simple-to-follow instructions.
Providing just-in-time training materials
Learning should continue outside the classroom environment. Support materials such as posters, pdfs, and videos can serve as a reference guide or refresher for learners on the job. This helps increase knowledge retention and increases the speed of proficiency by preventing learners from having to retake a course.Flipped Classroom Strategy for Better VILT CoursesAfter the pandemic began to spread, organizations had to work quickly to adapt. Many responded by converting their classroom training programs with virtual instructor-led courses. Although VILT is an excellent way to provide professional development opportunities in an online environment, it should not be structured the same way you would deliver in-person training.
Using a flipped-classroom approach can help you maximize training effectiveness and speed up the training process. Assigning learners activities or reading beforehand helps learners begin virtual instructions from a similar base of knowledge. This enables deeper discussions, gives more time to answer questions and for interactive activities.EndnoteSelecting the right training delivery tools and strategies can help improve the effectiveness of your corporate training programs. Providing impactful learning experiences can help your business reskill your workforce, build resilience and increase agility. To learn more about the future of L&D, listen to the podcast From Surviving to Thriving: Overcoming Today's Digital Learning Challenges.


#training delivery #training course design &delivery #types of training delivery