Traditional training, online learning or coaching?
Historically training only came in the classroom variety. An experienced trainer leading a group of eager participants through the dry and tedious course material.
After one or two days, participants – who were delighted with time out of the office – were presented with the all important certificate of accreditation. That should keep the boss happy.
Yes, one-on-one training is useful. The teacher can deal with individual problems and address specific issues. But time is constrained and progress must continue regardless of the level of comprehension.
Enter multi media learning. Professional trainers have embraced the new electronic tools at their disposal. The benefits of online learning are revolutionising workplace training programs.
Online or e-learning covers everything from basic computer based learning to sophisticated interactive web based learning and virtual classrooms.
Proponents of online learning claim it is superior to traditional learning in three key areas.
- The delivery of content is consistent.
The delivery is not impacted by the dynamics of different learners or the personality and or experience of a human trainer. The content remains the same whether the learner is in an office or at home. - Online learning saves time.
Studies undertaken by industry practitioners suggest learning time savings of between 40% and 60%. Even if these results are only half right, that is still a significant amount in productivity savings. - Greater retention.
Sophisticated, interactive online learning achieves significant retention and comprehension results over traditional training methods.
Online training also allows for broader training opportunities in the workplace. Economies of scale in the delivery of such training means a greater number of participants do not create a greater cost for the employer.
So where does coaching fit into the training equation?
A professional coach is a confidante who helps shape an individual’s career. The coach picks up where broad skill training leaves off.
Coaching is a specialist area of training utilised by many organisations wishing to groom their future managers and executives. Young staff with aspiration and management potential are assigned a coach to help develop their job-specific skills and level of individual performance.
Coaching requires a significant investment by an organisation in key individuals. It is not a general mass training option, but one of considered selection and development.
What is the best training method for your business? Most likely a combination of traditional training, online learning and coaching.
Certain instructional and hands on training will still benefit from one-on-one or small group traditional training. In some jobs it is critical that workers hear and be shown what to do by an expert trainer.
Online training has enormous scope and potential for the majority of workplaces. It delivers value for the employer and tangible results for the trainee. Interactive online learning is flexible for a variety of learning styles and allows participants to learn at their own pace.
And coaching offers benefits for the specific skill and career development of individuals with long term potential for an organisation.
Which should it be for your workplace? Online learning is definitely muscling traditional training out of the picture and coaching will remain a specialist area. Your organisation’s specific training needs and candidates should determine your choice.
