THERE has been much debate over the future of learning throughout 2009 and there is a belief that more traditional means of training will become the ghost of training past.
Past – traditional
In the past, training and development has been predominantly classroom-based, where groups of individuals sit in the same location and listen to an expert instructor while referring to textbooks and manuals.
This method offered in-depth study and explanation of the subject matter, with hands-on practice to help develop skills, perhaps coupled with live demonstrations.
Present
“Classroom” learning, either in groups or one-to-one, is still viewed as a significant element in the provision of training to achieve people’s development needs.
Although threatened by the advent of e-learning, which seemed, to some, the answer to everything and the death of classroom learning, in fact, we see a balance between the two, with “blended learning” making use of both methods.
Web 2.0 technologies now add a new and flexible element, with informal learning through blogs, webinars, video and podcasts enhancing knowledge-sharing and access to reference information. However, having ready access to information is not always a replacement for developing skills.
Future – evolution
Can tomorrow’s technology deliver the learning requirements of your people and add real business value?
If gaining competitive advantage from enhancing people’s core capabilities is of key importance to future business success, traditional training will more likely evolve than disappear.
The pace of change in technology is constant, which means our learning cannot be static and, while adopting new technological tools to support learning will provide benefits, it is through a blended approach that optimum success will be achieved.
The power of the human element in training should never be underestimated. Instructors can add real value by facilitating learning and developing a user’s confidence in a way unattainable from manuals, videos and online learning.
Webinars and podcasts are great tools for delivering short, sharp, focused nuggets of information, but longer or more in-depth topics require significant interaction to hold the attention of the audience.
While completely advocating a place for Web 2.0 learning, there is always a role for a person to bring it alive, and it is important to appreciate that people learn in different ways at different times.
For more information or advice about computer-skills training, contact Philippa Nicholson on 01224 330560, or visit www.nicholsonsolutions.co.uk