Tips for transitioning from traditional to online training practices

Over the past decade, studies have shown that the delivery of traditional face-to-face training has decreased by 21%, while training methods such as virtual or online training are increasing to fill this gap in face-to-face training. Converting from traditional training practices to online training methods is something that many companies around the world have very quickly implemented in the wake of COVID-19, and if not, will have to do so in the near future.

Studies have indicated that transitioning to online training not only benefits the trainer and learner in terms of convenience, time and money, but it has also demonstrated improved overall performance over using traditional face-to-face training methods in certain industries.

By applying these four tips, you can be sure to achieve a smooth transition from traditional to online training practices:

Communication is key

Transitioning to online training is not only an adjustment for training experts but also learners. With less face-to-face interaction, constant communication with learners to address any questions or concerns they might have is important. Explaining the advantages and benefits of learning online is an essential step in the process for a smooth transition and will allow the effectiveness of online training to prosper.

Content remains king

When making the shift to digital, training material needs to be transformed in a way that is easy to understand while providing a pleasant user experience. Training content that has clear learning objectives and that allows for flexible learning is key in making the online training experience a breeze. This enables learners with busy training schedules to complete training and assessments at their own pace, at work or from home. Content relevancy is also one of the most important aspects and potentially has the most significant impact on employee training. Whether it’s your own content you’re using or third-party learning material, making sure that your employees are training using relevant and fresh content will give them an easier window in acquiring the most up-to-date skills.

The perfect LMS match

Having the right learning management system (LMS) is crucial. When searching for the right LMS, it is essential to not only think about one that will benefit the needs of the company in the present moment, but one that can also grow with your employees and their future needs. Aiming for an LMS that is comprehensive, encourages learner engagement, is affordable and has multiple features will definitely benefit your transition to online training practices. Lesson Desk is an end-to-end training partner that offers companies everything they need from an LMS. Content can be created, distributed and assessed, ensuring that the training gap is identified and quickly addressed at the click of a button.

Feedback, surveys, evaluations

More often than not, one of the most important steps to making online learning successful is often forgotten or underestimated: evaluations. The main objective of an evaluation is to see whether employees have gained knowledge through training and can implement it in their daily working lives. Feedback and surveys must be carefully analysed to improve the outcome of future online training.

It is imperative that businesses are aware of the fast-growing need to transition to online training. When making the shift to online training, it is always necessary to keep learners and the passion for upskilling employees at the core of all decision-making. Doing so will create a positive training culture and enable employees to feel more empowered and confident in their working role.