What do you do when you have several hundred or thousand people around the country that you need to train? If you were living in the 1980s, the answer was simple: Fly them to a central point and offer face-to-face training. By the end of the century, the answer was blended learning: For the easy content, give them a “souped-up” PowerPoint presentation delivered via CD or internet. Then, bring them together for the hard stuff. Twenty years later, the answer seems to be a combination of self-study web-based training and webinars to reach everyone.
But is this really the right approach? And is it even the most cost-effective approach? The answer is “it depends.” Cost savings on travel and printing does not necessarily equal cost-effectiveness. Just because people hear the information does not mean they believe it. Sometimes, bringing people together in person still gives more bang for the buck. .
In general, learning options fall in three categories:
- Face to Face Learning (FFF) is the standard classroom training with trainers and participants together in the same location.
- Self-study distance learning (SSD) encompasses any method where learners study on their own, including read-ahead articles, web-based training courses, videos, chat rooms, electronic discussion boards, or homework assignments.
- Webinar distance learning (WD) enables learners to communicate in real-time with other participants and with the instructor via web-conferencing software.
The answers to the following questions can help identify the best option for your situation:
If you need help determining an appropriate training strategy for your organization, contact Comprehensive Learning Solutions.