Once interchangeable, these two terms today definitely indicate two distinctive types of learning.

Online learning and online learning tools simply means that the source of the tool the learner is using is web-based, cloud-based, or is generally available through the internet.  It can be accessed  anytime, anywhere (asynchronous). It can be a stand alone training experience or part of a blended learning experience.

These learning tools can also be used as part of instructor led training for a portion of class time, perhaps replacing reading and skill practice, and aligning with instructor led discussions and role playing/ case studies. Depending on how the eLearning is created, it might also double as a reference tool after the training is complete, or for sales and service people as a customer interface tool!

Distance learning is completely different. It is commonly defined as “education that takes place via electronic media linking instructors and students who are not together in a classroom.” Distance learning generally has a live aspect to it. Distance learning that requires on-site presence for any reason (including testing),or face time between instructor and student is referred to as hybrid or blended learning.

Distance learning is about the geography, whereas Online or eLearning is more about the mode or method. So how do you decide which of these options are best for your learning situation?  That is where understanding your needs comes into play.

Questions to ask yourself could include: Can the learning result you require be achieved with only online learning? Would the cost of bringing learners to together out-weigh any future investment in eLearning revisions? Can blended learning be leveraged by offering eLearning prior to quarterly or annual meetings where additional instructor-led reinforcement training might take place?

Illumen is always […]

The corporate trainer comes in for a new store opening. There’s manager training. A class is held for employees. Then perhaps shadowing is put into place for future needs. Everyone has been trained properly by this training professional. And training translates into consistently good service.

But then, as with almost every retail or hospitality location, turnover takes hold. Soon there are new employees at every level, sometimes shadowing someone who was new themselves just a few weeks ago and never finished their training. Perhaps new managers begin to look to seasoned staff for guidance, because they have yet to be trained. Each new iteration of staffing unintentionally pushes team members further and further away from the skills, policies and procedures that were so professionally taught during the store’s original opening.

Now think about eLearning. It’s typically built not by one corporate trainer, but through the vision of a team of professional subject-matter-experts. And once it’s built correctly, it is the same professional experience for every employee. The advantages of eLearning over traditional approaches are many:*

• 60% faster learning
• Consistent and very difficult to alter.
• 5X the amount of information can be covered in same amount of time
• With Gamification- scores are 15% higher and retention is 9% greater
• It’s there when you need it for anyone who needs it (Tablets can even be mounted near work areas for step by step reference).

Combined with the strong training that comes with store openings, eLearning can keep your message and identity strong and consistent across all your services. That translates into a successful brand and better prepared employees!

Want to know more? Allow us to “Illumen”ate you by continuing the discussion.