Crafting online training modules

When employees think of training programs and initiatives, the first thing that likely comes to mind is school – long days filled with education that they may not ever put to use.

Online training can help to alleviate some of these preconceptions. Whereas seminars and other training programs need to be comprehensive and cover a broad spectrum of knowledge to account for the various starting levels of participants, online initiatives tend to be modular by nature.

This means that participants can work at their own pace, skipping modules that are irrelevant or unnecessary to their jobs. At the same time, they can retake particular sections if they are having trouble internalizing concepts or want to refer back to the modules later. This is one of the many perks that online training brings to the table.

How to create online training programs

While web-based training initiatives come with a number of benefits that aren't apparent in other educational approaches, businesses still need to design effective courses.

This starts with an analysis of a company's needs and business objectives. What are the reasons for launching a training initiative? Businesses need to be able to answer this question in order to create modules that achieve their goals.

During the analysis phase, it's also important to think about logistics. How will the module be delivered within the context of a web? It could be shown to a group of participants or a singular person. It could be accessed at the worksite or at the user's home. Think about how all these little variables could impact learning.

After the analysis stage has been completed, companies can then begin to develop the content of their initiatives. Whether they use online videos, plain text, MP3 audio or any other delivery mechanism, the content needs to be unique, engaging and informative. Training courses need to be planned well, so they don't overwhelm participants.

TechRepublic also suggests ending each module with some type of exercise to help participants better internalize the concepts being taught.

“One of the great advantages to working in a self-directed, online learning environment is that students can complete exercises during the course to assess their own learning and determine what they need to review,” the news source adds. “To reinforce the concepts presented in each major section, add exercises that help students evaluate different scenarios and apply what they've learned.”

Finally, companies should open themselves up to feedback to help improve future online training modules. Realize that nothing is ever perfect the first time around and work to improve subsequent versions of the learning programs.