The Evolution of Online Learning
July 30, 2008
Obviously Online: E-Learning Done Right (Part II)
By J. LeRoy Ward
Since its creation, one of the weaknesses of online learning has been the fact that—although comprehensive and flexible—it is often a little isolating. Asynchronous online learning, which puts course material online, requires an individual student to guide themselves through the learning process. To younger employees, who are by now quite accustomed to the Internet as a multi-faceted learning and information tool, this may be the preferred way to learn. However, older employees who tend to rely on the Internet less for daily activities may find classic online learning to be a lesser alternative to the traditional classroom.
In response, a number of training providers over the past several years have worked to bring the benefits of classroom learning and online learning together into one highly effective, live-online learning format. Live-online learning—or, what some call "virtual learning"—is delivered in real-time and uses message boards, text-chat, microphones, and instant polling to create an interactive experience that more closely resembles the classroom. Users can still count on the freedom of being able to participate from anywhere, but, under this model, they remain beholden to specific class times and schedules and they learn in a group setting with other professionals. Virtual learning is, quite simply, the perfect multi-generational learning tool. This is of particular value today because, unless you’re running a lemonade stand in your neighborhood, your workforce is probably decidedly multigenerational.
Find Your Organization's Ideal Training Solution
With the recent flood of online learning courses and tools available in the marketplace, it’s essential to find the blend of solutions that most effectively meets your organization’s goals and your employees’ individual needs. Due to the wide range of challenges in the marketplace and the diversity of personnel making up today’s departments, most organizations find that there is no one-size-fits-all solution to their training challenges. But, one thing is now certain: the ups and downs of a turbulent economy no longer represent a training challenge that cannot be overcome. With a little creativity and the right training partner, you can ensure that your employees are armed with the most up-to-date skills and practices available.
Continue to Sidebar:E-Training a Global Project Management Methodology…
Back to Obviously Online: E-Learning Done Right (Part I)…
J. LeRoy Ward, PMP, PgMP, is executive vice president of ESI International, where he heads ESI's worldwide training programs and international partnerships. To learn more, visit www.esi-intl.com.
|
RSS
