Learning to embrace online training

The internet has become a highly valued business tool. It enables companies to hold meetings digitally with people hundreds or even thousands of miles away, allows employees to quickly and seamlessly access and share data from anywhere in the world, facilitates the measuring and recording of data in real-time from remote locations and helps companies accomplish dozens of other tasks. However, for some reason, when it comes to learning new concepts and training, many organizations are still doubtful as to the value that the web can bring to the table.

Without a doubt, online training is different from more conventional in-person sessions or seminars. However, there are many areas where the web offers unique benefits that more traditional training programs simply can't touch upon. Businesses need to stop being afraid of online training and learn to embrace it – we live in a digital age, and online educational courses provide a convenient and easy way of learning new skills and concepts. Here are two strategies for getting the most out of online training initiatives.

1. Stay in touch

As Edudemic notes, from the perspective of the trainees, one of their biggest reservations about online learning is the lack of human engagement. People are accustomed to getting information online and do so all the time, whether they are researching products or catching up with friends on social networks. It's not the learning part that's offputting, but rather, the lack of the human element.

Learning a concept such as Kaizen can be done through the web, but it's pivotal that these programs include human engagement, even if it's something as simple as reinforcing lessons with an in-person follow-up.

2. Establish a community

Nowadays, the web essentially revolves around social media and online communities. Facebook is driven by personal relationships, LinkedIn by business connections and online communities by people who share just about any common interest. People are accustomed to talking with others online, whether it's via social networks or discussion forums.

Online training programs should similarly embrace community features and functions, allowing trainees to discuss what they've learned with their peers and mentors.

“Finally, the fourth main way to ease students fears about e-learning is to foster a strong sense of community and support,” the news source adds. “I often share with my students that we have a common mission and purpose to see that everyone succeeds in the course.”

Online training, if executed well, can be an effective way of learning concepts such as Lean manufacturing. Businesses need to embrace the format, rather than question it.