The ever-growing digital trend and rising proficiency of online training technology has seen eLearning picked up by organisations of all sizes. After all, it is an effective means of training workforces. However, despite the countless benefits this method of training has to offer you, your staff, and your bottom line (see here, here, and here), there are still a number of factors to be considered to ensure that your eLearning solution achieves your learning outcomes. In fact, choosing the right eLearning course types for your employees’ learning needs could be the crucial difference between a great investment and a rookie error.
Just as there are numbers of different learning types within any workforce, there are also a number of different eLearning course types to meet said requirements – from the chatroom-esque to full-blown virtual workplaces. These course types can usually be divided into three main categories: Synchronous, Asynchronous, and Blended.
Synchronous
The closest to a traditional classroom setting of the three, Synchronous learning can be loosely defined as real-time learning. That is, learners and teachers must be interacting at the same time from different locations. The prevalence of digital technologies has made the world of Synchronous learning the oyster of eLearning developers. However, this course type most often takes the form of video conferences, webinars, application sharing, virtual classrooms, or messenger functions wherein learners can share ideas, suggestions, or questions and receive responses or solutions immediately.
A live webinar is just one example of the many forms of Synchronous learning. Here’s a recorded version of one we whipped up earlier.
Asynchronous
A favourite of the self-serve checkout lovers among us, Asynchronous learning requires that the communication between teacher and learner doesn’t happen immediately – think pause-and-resume learning. This could take the form of anything from an entirely self-managed course to even trading emails with an instructor. Asynchronous learning encompasses tools such as self-paced SCORM courses, emails, discussion forums, blogs, webcasting, simulations, and game-based learning. This course type allows learners to participate at any time without affecting their other commitments.
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VMP eLearning recently created an Asynchronous eLearning solution for Nintiringanyi Cultural Training Centre. View project
Blended
Having taken Hannah Montana’s advice to enjoy the best of both worlds to heart, this course type borrows elements from both Synchronous and Asynchronous learning to present a well-rounded educational experience. Blended learning allows learners to progress at their own pace, drawing information from Asynchronous modules. However, it also provides real-time support from a Synchronous instructor.
No need to choose between Synchronous and Asynchronous when Blended learning allows you to porque no los dos it.
This kind of learning can take many forms, including blends of workshops, instructional exercises, messaging, discussion sheets, quizzes, and more. (See our FAQ Page to find more answers about digital learning).
Ok…so where do I start?
Sometimes, the highly engaging and interactive new eLearning course that you’ve implemented won’t lead to the outcomes you’re aiming for. Why? Well, a common mistake in eLearning design and development is that courses are created to deliver the required content, but not to meet your learner’s needs.
For the socially-inclined learners among us, a Synchronous eLearning solution offers instant feedback that improves the formation and connection of learner and information. Even more notably, this personal approach to learning offers the highest level of inclusion of learners. However, this traditionally-inclined course type simply doesn’t offer the time-independent option for self-management or logistics of planning.
On the other hand, Asynchronous eLearning solutions offer convenience, flexibility, and the option for self-management. Without the option for ongoing connection and support with either party, however, the inexperienced eLearners among us may find themselves feeling isolated, confused, and less likely to continue with the course.
So, which is right for me?
There will never quite be a ‘one size fits all’ solution to training your workforce using an eLearning course. But, identifying the learning needs within your workforce will help decide which is the most relevant course types for your business. And then, you’ll be able to embark upon the eLearning course design and development process will save you – and your staff members – a world of trouble.
VMP eLearning’s Training Needs Analysis, designed by Dr Ruth Schwarzenbock (PhD Science of Education), is a systematic means of identifying risks, strengths, learning types, and gaps in the skills of your workforce. With these aspects in mind, you can move forward with your eLearning development knowing where to allocate your training budget. To get the best out of your people, an appropriate training strategy is absolutely crucial.
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Don’t let ineffective training eat into your budget.
A Training Needs Analysis (TNA) from VMP eLearning can help you identify areas where you can save money and achieve better outcomes. Contact our Education Specialist for a consultation.