Virtual Training vs In-Person Training

Overtime, organizations have been looking for flexible learning options for their employees. There has been a significant rise in the number of people going for virtual training vs in person training. Often there is discussion with respect to the level of engagement and retention of learning when we speak of virtual training. In unprecedented times like these, online training and meeting options are booming.

Let’s take a case in point – During the current COVID-19 scare, companies have no option but to resort to online platforms that can ensure business continuity. It has also been adopted by schools, colleges and corporates.

Advantages of Virtual Trainings

Here are a couple of reasons as to why everyone is making the shift towards virtual trainings

Virtual trainings are way more flexible

While a traditional mode of learning, i.e classroom setup may require one to be physically present for a couple of times during a day or days. Virtual trainings on the other hand are more flexible, can be accessed from almost anywhere and anytime. Often online trainings are conducted in bits and they are spread across various timelines thereby contributing to sustenance of learning. This creates a more effective learning environment because it allows more time to digest information.

Affordable when compared to other options

Virtual trainings are any day a more economical option of training as they don’t require trainer to travel or fly down to conduct a training, they don’t include any travel or classroom costs as they are being conducted from a certain location of your choice. Since these are broken down into smaller nuggets, they don’t require participants to be away from their desks for too long.

Better on the skill application

Virtual training typically integrates easily into a regular workday and doesn’t require travel. This means participants can apply skills immediately at their work environments.

Enhancing Engagement in Virtual Trainings

In a research conducted sometime back by a leading consultant, it states that 100% of workforce find virtual learning to be very engaging. Here is a fail-proof methodology that one can make use of to conduct seamless and engaging virtual trainings

Invest in a reliable and stable technology for your trainings

The cost of online trainings is anyways lesser, in order to take the best out of the cost we incur, it is best to invest in a technology that does not fail last minute. There are just so many players prevalent today in the market space i.e. WebEx, Teams, etc.

Seek energetic and enthusiastic facilitators

The choice of a facilitator should be in your hands. The experience of one can make or break a session. A skilled and experienced trainer is a one who can hold its participant’s attention for long, encourage participants and build connections. It is to be ensured that the trainer just does not have the right degrees, but also has the capacity to keep the audience hooked to their screens

Builds interest by engaging in pre work

This helps the facilitator to set the context when they e-meet for the session. In order to bring out the enthusiasm levels high, it is essential to keep them engaged by setting the expectations right and giving them some pre work that can set the tone for the actual session

Conclusion

As long the training is properly planned, informative and engaging, employees are sure to have a wonderful experience, which in turn will increase their retention of the content covered.