E-learning comes in many formats and names. You may have used other names such as web-based training (WBT), computer-based training (CBT), E-Learning, or some other acronym. They are all essentially the same.
Let’s not get this mixed up with virtual learning, which is done via Webex, Zoom, or another learning platform. Virtual learning is meant to be interactive and conducted with a facilitator, but many of the current tools and instructor skillsets are not utilized. We are also not referring to video learning (e.g. YouTube, paid video courses). Video learning is meant to be watched, studied and absorbed independently.
At SEED, we like to refer to to the interactive training done online as E-Learning. E-learning helps fill the gaps in training. Often times, processes need to practiced or explained a bit more thoroughly. There are some significant advantages of e-learning.
Interactive
Interactions can be built to group information blocks. There are many types of useful interactions that can be built into e-learning modules. Articulate Engage has some pre-built interactions, but we prefer custom interactions. There is such a wide variety of activities that can be built into an e-learning module. The limitations of what can be built in e-learning is only at the edges of an instructional designer’s creativity.
Several Forms of Media
The digital format of e-learning can incorporate any type of media. Audio voiceover is useful for e-learning modules, as are sounds effects and background music. The use of video is also helpful when explaining concepts. Pictures, shapes, text boxes, labels, and every other feature helps provide an interactive training experience. When you begin to design the training with interactive video, audio, and pictures, you really begin to unlock the power of e-learning.
Feedback Throughout Training
A good e-learning module has a combination of complex interactions, simulations, case studies, knowledge checks, videos, and other media. The result of a consistent but varied learning experience provides a constant feedback mechanism. For example, a learner may have to find items in a hidden picture which resembles their workplace. This would teach them how to locate these items. Once complete, they could watch a video about best practices. After the video, you can test their knowledge with a knowledge check.
Useful for More Complex Topics
E-learning is a great resource for giving learners an opportunity to practice tasks they cannot complete in a classroom environment. This is useful when learners are exploring new software or other more complex tasks. A good e-learning module will allow learners to simulate the native environment without the concern for making mistakes.
Self-Paced
One of the biggest advantages of e-learning is that they can be completed at the pace of the learner. When absorbing more complex topics, we have found that this freedom allows learners to finish the module at a speed they are comfortable with. If they do not understand concepts, they can easily review or replay the content several times. This allows each learner to absorb the content, and move at their own pace.
Easy to Assess
With out an assessment and knowledge checks, we have know way to understand how well the learner understands the learning objectives. By assessing the learners with validated questions and answers, it provides an opportunity for learners to test what they have learned. Proper alignment between learning objectives and assessment questions help ensure they have learned the appropriate content.
Provides Tracking and Metrics
SCORM compliant e-learning can be tracked on learning management systems (LMS). This allows training teams and Managers to track the completions of their employees or allows the instructor to track the scores of the participants. Alternatively, the use of JavaScript allows for larger exports of data from E-learning. This is great for gathering feedback in items such as surveys. Another useful case is simulation data exports, which can track how learners completed the simulation. By tracking successes and mistakes, you can learn about how your learners are performing within the simulation.
Flexibility of Delivery
E-learning is great for audiences which are spread over several sites, or work several shifts, or when training includes several work groups. There are significant advantages of deploying e-learning to varied audiences that would be more difficult to gather for a classroom or virtual session.
