In the wave of technology, you might think that Instructor-Led Training (ILT) has had its day. However, instructor-led training still has a place in many training programs and, in some cases, can provide a more effective means of presenting new or complex information than eLearning.
Instructor-Led Training Remains A Crucial Element Of Corporate Training
Instructor-led training is training facilitated by an instructor in a classroom or online, usually to a group of people rather than an individual. This type or training provides the learner with “hands-on” experience and allows interaction with the facilitator and other participants to discuss and question learning material.
Because ILT can be more expensive than online training, it should be carefully planned to maximize its effectiveness and efficiency.
In this article, PulseLearning discusses 5 ways to maximize Instructor-Led Training.
- Plan and develop robust instructor-led training materials.
Instructor-led training development should always begin with clear, specific learning objectives to inform the training development. For each training session, develop a detailed plan, including how the session is to be prepared, delivered, and evaluated. Content should be delivered through an engaging variety of mechanisms, such as role-plays, discussions, and group and individual activities and games. Use a mix of these to accommodate different learning styles. An ILT session package usually includes:- Facilitator guides.
- Learner guides.
- Visual support, including PowerPoint presentations, videos, or images.
- Form instructor-led training into a blended solution.
Blending instructor-led training with eLearning often provides a “best of both worlds” training synergy. Knowledge-based information can be presented through short micro-learning online modules, freeing up instructor-led training sessions for practical components, such as demonstrations and tutorials. A blended learning solution can help reduce some of the costs associated with ILT, reserve this solution for suitable content, and provide some flexibility for learners. - Publish online for greater reach.
Review your existing ILT courses to determine whether they are best delivered face to face and if not, consider migrating these to eLearning. Although you can train a lot more people with ILT than one-to-one job-based training or coaching, eLearning will give you a significantly greater audience reach. You can also use instructor-led training to deliver the core component of your training and then follow up with refresher online resources. Alternatively, ILT courses can be broadcast online as a live or prerecorded webinar or through virtual classroom technology. - Select facilitators carefully.
The right facilitator is essential for maximizing the impact of your ILT. The facilitator should have experience with the subject matter and possess excellent public speaking and communication skills. A successful facilitator will use anecdotes, metaphors, personal experience, and appropriate humor to embed context and bring content to life. - Customize ILT presentation to group needs.
One disadvantage of instructor-led training is that you cannot individually personalize the experience; however, you can make adjustments based on the audience group. For example, when delivering a business skills session to a group of graphic designers, the facilitator could bring in physical, visual objects or images to support learning messages. You should determine the kind of communication style and methods in advance that the group will best connect with. Heron’s Six Categories of Intervention is one tool you can use to help you customize the instructor-led training experience.
Does your instructor-led training need improvement? PulseLearning can help you maximize Instructor-Led Training so your learners and business benefit. PulseLearning is an award-winning global learning provider experienced in developing engaging and innovative instructor-led training, eLearning, and blended training solutions.
