Learning is a
fundamental mechanism in modern organizations as it shapes their professional,
social, and commercial patterns. The current knowledge-driven economy provides
new uncertainties and opportunities for corporate learning. One among such
opportunities is definitely eLearning,
as this technology-driven format accommodates needs for budget, schedule
flexibility, on-demand learning, audience size and location. Likewise, you may
assume that we must include the traditional classroom based Instructor
Led Training (ILT) among the uncertainties due to the
same concerns. Well, not exactly!
From our 15+ years’
worth of experience in the eLearning and learning technology industry, we have
observed that Instructor Led Training still remains unchallenged under many
scenarios. When you need to gain complex skills that provide a distinguishing
edge to your organization, ILT assures you higher chance of success. Other
advantages include:
ILT is one of the best learning modes, to
learn from industry veterans and experts. The instructor’s knowledge of the
subject matter helps individuals or groups understand the topic in greater
detail. With such expert level of guidance and approach, ILT becomes more
focused towards a clear learning objective, and when coupled with real-time
assessments (quizzes or Q&A), it practically guarantees fulfillment of
these objectives in a timely manner. Depending upon the subject matter, the ILT
format may also differ. It could be one-on-one, through seminars, webinars, or small
groups for highly interactive sessions. It could also be conducted as a workshop,
if a practical demonstration is necessary to increase learners’ engagement.
- Face-to- Face Interaction
Direct
face-to-face interaction with the instructor and fellow learners, and the facility
to have real-time problem solving or having detailed discussions, can help give
structure and purpose to learning. ILT provides motivation and a greater sense
of achievement as the learning goals and the approach are predefined,
disruptive activities are minimal, and the learning time frame is already
fixed. All of these factors combined together create a consistent environment
for learning and retention.
Every
learner is different and instructors are aware of it. If the learning goal is
to develop a deep understanding of some new technology or an intricate policy
then, generally, many learners would require tailored guidance, which can be
easily accommodated in ILT. It also provides the facility
to practice a newly-acquired skill with the expert instructor to assist with
troubleshooting, problem-solving or giving constructive feedback. Also, the instructor’s
approach to the subject can be adapted if they realize that the learners are
not retaining the information as expected. They can return to a previous point or
explain a particular section further if they sense any confusion.
This helps in reinforcing the knowledge gained by the learners. This feature
renders uniqueness to ILT.
- Realistic
and High-Risk Training
Various
industries, like Aviation, Automobiles, Construction, Defense, and Healthcare, require
training in as much a realistic situation as possible because of the risks and
occasional dangers involved at the job-site. To make the workplace safe,
productive and sustainable, highest standards in professional competence and the
best practices are required at all times. Such high-risk and
high-responsibility industries mostly require ILT to be conducted with the help
of veterans and experts to provide in-person practice and immediate feedback.
Peer group activities
like brainstorming, problem-solving or role-playing in ILT provide greater
value to a learner than his initial set goals. It is observed that employees
learn a lot from one another as well as from the trainer. The potential
learning outcomes of peer interactions are reciprocal. While expert interaction
with the trainer has significant amount of benefits, peer interaction induces mutual
learning, responsibility, cooperation, and support. Many a times these
interactions lead to long-lasting network of bonds and professional
relationships.
Take Away
These five reasons ascertain that in
many situations there is no reasonable substitute for ILT. It will continue to
impart the benefits of expert in-person guidance, peer-group learning, social interaction,
discussion or reasoning, and real-time assessments/ feedback, to workforce
training. The key to success of ILT is to map it correctly to the topic and the
learning objectives of the organization.
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