The Efficiency of Online Training in the Workplace

Online training is changing the way people learn and grow. In the modern world, traditional classroom teachings are taking a back seat, while virtual classrooms are taking the center space. E-learning has grown to be a significant component of employees’ professional development. It fosters the emergence of the necessity for employees to keep up with the rapid evolution of modern technology. Employers, therefore, are now focused on leveraging this mode of training for their employees.

What does online training means?

It is a learning process for workplace employees using electronic devices. It uses information and communication as a mode of learning and delivers the training electronically, using database and learning management systems (LMSs). The use of online training techniques makes it feasible to communicate with employees who are located all over the world. Any employee around the globe can participate in the same training environment. It lets them upskill in their jobs at a faster rate and creates significant opportunities for economic mobility.

Different types of online training

There are multiple types of online training. With live virtual classes where the facilitators using online platforms meet the employees, there is also asynchronous training where instead of going online for an interactive session, the employees tend to complete the training independently in their flexible time. The three basic categories are as follows:

Online synchronous training: The word synchronous refers to the same time. In online synchronous learning, employees and instructors are engaged in course content simultaneously using the internet.
Online asynchronous training: The word asynchronous means not at the same time. In the online asynchronous learning method, instructors generate online content in advance. Employees can engage with it as per their schedules.
Blended mode: In the blended method of, there are features of both types that are synchronous and asynchronous learning. It is also known as Hybrid learning.

Examples of online training

Online training provides employees an environment like a traditional training platform, but over the net. They can attend synchronous or asynchronous classes from anywhere, anytime. A few examples are as follows:

A virtual classroom like Google Classroom
Online degree programs
Virtual instructor-led training (VILT), e.g., WebEx or webinars
Various courses on Linkedin Learning, Coursera, Unacademy, Skillshare, Shaw Academy, Udemy
Audio and video conferencing using platforms like, Zoom, Google meet, Microsoft team, or Skype
Microlearning
e-learning courses on Learning Management Systems

Advantages of online training

Following are the advantages:

Flexibility: The employees can learn whenever and wherever they want to. It can allow employees to use unique tools, expertise, and course content for training. It makes it easier for those who struggle in physical training due to physical limitations or learning difficulties.
Pace flexibility: The synchronous or asynchronous nature of the online training helps employees undertake the courses at their own pace. This gives them freedom in their choices.
Chance to review and recall: The employees can repeat past lectures they need to brush up on at any time, which is impossible with synchronous traditional training methods. This is a massive advantage on the part of the learners. This allows them to remember and relearn the materials at their convenience.
Individual-oriented: It might not always offer a setting that fosters social skills development. But learners who find it uncomfortable to participate in physical interactions or debates, and do not like to socialize, can be comfortable with learning online on their own. By providing individualized programs, it gives a safe environment to them.
An abundance of resources: There is an opportunity to review outside resources to aid instruction. One can explore the extensive internet resources of various programs and courses online, and thanks to schedule flexibility and the breaking down of classroom walls, one can use them in their career advancement by improving technical skills.
Efficiency: It enable learners to access the resources, be it notes, theories, diagrams, or PPTs, from anywhere and at any time.
Accessible: It is evolving in nature. It is becoming less expensive and more accessible. It is also customizable to meet the needs of any organization. This allows employers to make this training structure easily accessible to employees across their organization. It results in more employee learning and qualifying for promotions.
Ability to continue in professional responsibilities: With the convenience and flexibility offered by online training, employees can continue with their profession and maintain their work/life balance.
Higher retention: Using digital resources, including presentations and multimedia that includes images, videos, and audio, employees get to learn more than any traditional learning method.
Eco-friendly: Due to less printing, it has a major environmental impact. In online training, everything is digital. Pen and paper are not necessary. Electronic devices note everything for the learners.
Avoids commuting: Employees do not have to worry about transportation. The training is available over the net. Therefore, employees save time and money on online training.
Cost-effective: Due to no transportation costs and resources available online, it is a more cost-effective solution than the traditional learning technique.

A few tips to keep employees involved during online training

There is a lack of personal one-on-one engagement with trained and qualified instructors, which might contribute to some employees’ lack of enthusiasm. Therefore, it requires employees to be actively involved and take more responsibility for learning in an online training environment. Therefore, there is a necessity for a few special requirements for online training.

New tools: It is tool-based. Therefore, allow employees time to explore new tools. It will build their confidence in the device and help them in future projects.
Add variety: Let employees choose various mediums when presenting their understanding. To keep the employees interested, use various creative exercises and activities.
Break it up: It is different from traditional classrooms. Therefore, instructors should not design classes in the same way. Breaking up the training into chunks and delivering short lessons allow employees to learn independently.
Make it interactive: In online training, employees must remain interested throughout the course. To get trainees to participate in the training, begin with a warm-up activity. Assign them group tasks so that they need to collaborate. Instructors can also use online breakout rooms, collaborative whiteboards, and embedding games to allow employees to connect.
Take breaks: More than 45 minutes of screen time in one sitting can be hard on the eyes and mind. Let the employees take screen-free breaks to reset the mind and the body.

Infographics

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Conclusion

After the discussions above, it is impossible to completely disregard the significance of online training in the modern world. Employers and employees from various organizations are already benefiting from online training in their day-to-day activities. It is very beneficial, from learning new abilities to relearning old skills using new training methods. Online training has a remarkable potential to shape the future and assist in attaining some of the most crucial and unachieved objectives.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is online training?

Online training is a learning process for workplace employees using electronic devices. It uses information and communication as a mode of learning and delivers the training electronically, using database and learning management systems (LMS).

What are the types of online training?

The three basic categories of online training are as follows: online synchronous learning, online asynchronous learning, and blended mode of learning.

What is online training for employees?

Online training is a learning process for workplace employees that includes electronic devices like computers or laptops.

What are the benefits of online training?

The synchronous or asynchronous nature of the online training helps employees undertake the courses at their own pace, according to their own needs. This gives them freedom in their choices.