Everything You Need to Know About Virtual Instructor-Led Training
Online learning surged in popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic as educational institutions were forced to close and people were advised to work from home. Despite the lifting of restrictions and our return to normality, it remains the preferred method of learning.
The flexibility and convenience of online learning makes education and training more accessible for those with busy schedules and travel limitations. Major universities continue to offer many of their lectures online and businesses are adapting their Learning & Development programmes as the economic benefits and increased engagement rates associated with delivering workplace training online become more apparent.
The technological capabilities of the internet today have made communication easier than ever and Virtual Instructor Led Training or VILT I seems to be growing at an astonishing rate. This relatively new approach to online learning mimics the format of a traditional classroom environment but can be delivered to attendees in different locations.
The Benefits of Virtual Instructor-Led Training
Particularly effective when combined with other online training methods such as learning modules and online assessments, VILT provides all the benefits of face-to-face learning as a digital learning experience. Incorporating Virtual Instructor-Led Training into your Learning & Development programmes offers the following benefits:
01 – Cost-Effective
Those with staff based in numerous locations, either nationally or internationally, will undoubtedly see a significant decrease in cost when choosing VILT. Covering course costs and reimbursing training expenses for each individual employee can be incredibly expensive. A company-wide initiative will ensure that all employees can access the same training content and, as everything is delivered online, it eliminates the need to supply hard copy supporting materials.
02 – Accessible Advice
The interactive nature of VILT enables learners to access information instantly, whether that be by asking questions, requesting elaboration or asking for certain aspects to be explained in a different manner. Whilst some people may be happy to raise concerns or ask questions via forums, messages and emails, having in-person access to a subject expert means prompt responses can be given and the learning process isn’t stalled. If pairing VILT with an eLearning programme, you are providing more than one channel for users to seek advice and clarity.
03 – Immersive and Interactive
Having a subject matter expert present during training means various methods can be incorporated. Practical training can be delivered via instructor-led training activities so that new skills can be experienced. Role playing activities and interactive video simulations will also allow learners to demonstrate any skills recently learning via eLearning platforms, so progress can be measured. It provides endless opportunities to create a more immersive learning experience that will keep learners engaged.
VILT also creates a connected community of learning within an organisation by bringing employees from different departments and offices together. Whether it is by discussion forums or instant messaging software, users can engage with one another to share their learning experiences, exchange knowledge or build relationships.
04 – Cater to Different Learning Style
VILT is particularly effective when combined with an eLearning programme as there isn’t a one size fits all method when it comes to delivering training. People have different learning styles and preferences so where one might absorb information better in a classroom environment, another might absorb information easier when learning alone. By incorporating Virtual Instructor-Led Training into your L&D programme you are catering to different learning styles.
05 – Adaptable and Accessible
When instructor-led training is delivered in a digital format, the lesson or training session can be paused and restarted at the learner’s convenience. Unexpected distractions or interruptions don’t need to hinder progress or affect knowledge absorption as users can replay individual segments. This adaptability makes it easier for users of differing ages and capabilities to revisit parts they missed or found difficult to understand.
06 – Best Practices for Virtual Instructor-Led Training
Virtual Instructor-Led Training may seem like an easy thing to introduce but you should be aware of the following best practices to ensure its success:
Use the Right Technology
There are numerous video software options and platforms you can use to deliver VILT but unless you integrate your chosen one with a learning management system, it will be nothing more than a communication tool. Integrating your Virtual Instructor-Led Training with an LMS will allow you to plan and organise sessions and communicate with attendees so session reminders, pre-lesson information, homework and assessments can be delivered.
Choose a Suitable Course Instructor
The more knowledgeable a tutor is in the subject matter, the more effective the training will be. The interactive aspect of VILT will be of little benefit if the course instructor isn’t a subject matter expert (SME). Virtual Instructor-Led Training should be delivered by an expert who is able to not only deliver the information created as part of the lesson plan, but who can answer questions, share experiences and keep learners engaged.
Create Content
Recreating the classroom environment online does not eliminate the need for learning materials. Although you will save on the cost of providing hard copy materials, things like PowerPoint presentations, audio clips, instructional videos and infographics will all help to create a more engaging learning experience that meets the varying learning styles of your audience.
Get in touch
Overall, Moodle Workplace offers a comprehensive and fully featured e-learning solution that addresses the specific needs of government and other public sector organisations. It combines flexibility with security to deliver an engaging and effective platform for all types of training and development.
For further information on how Titus supports public sector bodies in delivering effective, engaging and secure e-learning, speak to one of our team.
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