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Remote learning has improved much because of digital technology. While the basic concept remains the same, instructors have more flexibility. They can create courses and training modules that will suit the need of their learners. The goal is to simulate the conventional classroom environment. But, at the same time, maintain engagement and improve delivery. Also, while putting in place effective assessment strategies.

Many industries today see virtual training as the most efficient way to teach. According to a 2018 report, 86% of organizations now use virtual classrooms as a standard office practice. And when employees have access to enough training, they are well-equipped on their jobs.

The Advantages of Virtual Training

There are many reasons why virtual classrooms are the perfect fit for almost every organization. The following are well-established benefits of online learning compared to traditional classroom instruction:

  • Appeals and conforms to different learning styles
Acknowledging and addressing different learning styles is the key to effective instruction. With virtual classes, it’s possible to create a training module that includes activities for each type of learner. What’s essential here is the ability to maximize technology. The course should also address at least two of the known learning styles.
  • Promotes repetition and encourage retention through interactive exercises
There are specific skills you can’t teach through simple text. Simulating actual scenarios may be a challenge with online learning. But, in using the right virtual training software, interactive activities may be incorporated. Examples include video tutorials that will be effective in teaching a particular skill.
  • Avoids safety concerns and other risks
Virtual training can help reduce some of the risks involved with some jobs. For instance, a virtual module is an excellent alternative for firefighter training. Online modules can show how to put out a fire, and avoid safety hazard for students. Online learning can serve as a primary avenue to teach individuals who will, later on, engage in high-risk working conditions. Moreover, remote online classes is perfect for situations that require physical distancing. A good example is what’s happening in the world today.
  • Scalable and cost-effective
Performance and positive results are one way to measure effective training. Every training module should have an assessment that allows for measuring learning. And with data gathered, the organization can choose to scale up virtual training efforts according to what works for them. The cost of online education is also more manageable as it requires minimal investment.
  • Results-oriented learning for every industry
6 Best Tips to Prepare for Virtual Training at HomeFor every industry, increased performance and productivity are worth the investment. And these goals are only possible through continuous training. Virtual training has made significant strides in various institutions. Some examples including healthcare, academic research, IT, and financial services. It’s only a matter of time before other organizations shift to virtual learning. Eventually, we will altogether abandoning traditional classroom instruction.

The benefits of virtual training are not only monetary. Most importantly, it can help organizations improve and streamline their training procedures. Indeed, in today’s highly digitalized learning landscape, it’s only natural to maximize the use of virtual classrooms for all kinds of instruction.

Related Content: Are You Delivering High-Quality Virtual Training?

How to Prepare for Virtual Training at Home

Now that we’ve discussed the advantages of virtual learning, it’s critical to understand that success in this field is a two-way street. Yes, choosing the right virtual training company to create modules and courses is the first step. But another essential consideration is the preparation and readiness of the learner. The learning environment contributes to effective information dissemination, retention, and practice.

Here are the best tips and strategies to prepare for and succeed in online or remote training.

  • Align personal goals with training goals
Every training module has specific objectives. But these objectives lose meaning when the learner doesn’t set and align personal goals. One crucial characteristic of virtual classes is how it adjusts to the trainee’s style and pace. As such, coming up with an action plan or to-do list will greatly improve the experience. For instance, you can put in place a personal reward system. Rewards will encourage productivity and prevent boredom.
  • Access to tools and extra resources
Every organization adopting virtual training should ensure digital equity among learners. Every person enrolled in the class should have uniform access to tech tools. Also, they need resources that will help them complete the course efficiently. Difficulties with accessibility are not only a roadblock for the learner. It also impacts the overall effectiveness of the training program.
  • Choose the right location

Learning at home can be challenging, especially if there are many distractions. The environment plays a big role in the success of an online class. As much as possible, you need a private workspace. Comfort is a priority, but it shouldn't hamper productivity. Lighting should be optimized for learning. Lastly, there shouldn’t be any distractions that could take away from your desire to focus.

Related Content: Helping Students Embrace Technology in a Virtual Training Environment
  • Establish communication channels with the training facilitator
Remote learning is meant to be approached with independence. But, training facilitators also need to check-in on the learners from time to time. There are many communication channels available, and learners can choose which is most convenient for them. Training instructors should also remain flexible. They should communicate with trainees on whatever channel they prefer.
  • Adhere to the schedule
6 Best Tips to Prepare for Virtual Training at HomeOnline training allows trainees to complete the module at their own pace. Yet, it’s essential to set guidelines for the schedule and completion timeframe. When you’re at home, you also need to consider the best time to work on the training course. Take breaks when appropriate, and organize the module into workable sections that you can finish within the allotted time.
  • Plan your approach
Being able to work independently allows you to come up with personalized strategies. You can also assess which tools work best according to your learning style. Whatever resources and tools you need to help with completing the course, have them at the ready. For instance, if you need to download apps for video conferencing, do them well beforehand. You need to avoid experiencing technical difficulties while in the middle of training.

Participants in a virtual training class hold half the responsibility in ensuring success. With the right amount of planning, focus, and determination, online learning should be efficient and hassle-free.

What are the Challenges of Virtual Training?

Today, almost every person is a digital native. And, embracing virtual learning shouldn’t meet much resistance. Even so, there are still potential challenges to this method of instruction. And when left unresolved, will become roadblocks to success.

  • Organization’s inability to shift into virtual instruction

An organization that has relied mostly on traditional classroom training cannot jump into virtual instruction in an instant. First, there is a need to prepare tech resources. Second, trainers should have the right skill set. And lastly, employee expectations should change as well. In some industries where legacy systems take precedence, not everyone has the skill or is willing to adapt to a digital mode of learning.

Related Content: 5 Reasons Training Departments Switch to Virtual Instructor-led Training (Part 1)
  • Regulatory and legal requirements
One significant roadblock to the advancement of online instruction is the varying regulations that govern each industry. Depending on compliance requirements, virtual training may not be the right fit. And if so, investing in an online class won’t lead to the desired results. Other setbacks may involve legal protocols involving security and confidentiality. All these factors could be damaging to the organization if not taken into account.
  • Training course design
As earlier pointed out, trainees have different learning styles. The inability to acknowledge and cater to these differences can lead to the failure of an online training class. The design of a virtual training course should be tailored-fit to the needs of the class in general. But, it should also have dynamic elements that would make the course more engaging and interactive.
  • Incompatibility with the training course provider
Most companies outsource providers that create virtual training modules and software. In choosing a provider, it’s also crucial to assess the platform's compatibility with the needs of your organization.
  • Narrowing down the content
6 Best Tips to Prepare for Virtual Training at HomeOne challenging aspect of creating a training program is making sure that you only include what’s necessary. Ideally, each module should be at most, 60 minutes. But there are instances when a course has to run for a longer time. Hence, the importance of incorporating different tools and interactive activities to prevent monotony.
  • Meeting organizational goals while also staying within budget
Every training program has a set budget. If you are working on a budget, there should be a realistic estimate of all the expenses. Costs should be managed before, during, and after the training class implementation.

Apart from the challenges mentioned, other problems may also occur. These include inexperienced trainers, difficult deadlines, and lack of trainee participation. Still, all these can be avoided with enough planning, testing, and progress tracking.

Conclusion

Incorporating technology in learning is a new reality facing organizations today. As virtual classrooms become the norm, it’s becoming more expedient to adapt to these changes. Online courses should replace traditional teaching methods but at a manageable pace. In this article, we’ve highlighted the many benefits of virtual classes. Indeed, distance training makes the most sense for companies and organizations today. Digital technology isn't only convenient, but also accessible.

Moreover, virtual training resolves emerging issues in security, safety, and other risks. The good thing is, technology is only about to get better in the coming years. Instructors and learners can use plenty of tools and resources available, making online instruction more successful. Perhaps what’s essential is changing the general perspective on learning. It's important to acknowledge how online classes produce similar results as conventional classroom teaching. And when there is no longer any resistance, virtual classes will become the new norm. Whether for educational institutions, businesses, or every other industry where it’s applicable.

After a long and detailed preparation, how do you know when your organization is ready for virtual training? Evaluate these areas now!
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