Online learning is a common term in today's world. Virtual classroom, blended learning, and live online learning are just a few of the many terms used to describe online learning.
Today's focus is on virtual instructor-led training. Let's discuss the definition, highlight its key advantages, share tips for success, as well as how to choose a virtual training platform.
What is virtual instructor-led training?
Virtual instructor-led training, or VILT, is an interactive online training that's hosted by a virtual facilitator. The facilitator connects with remote participants via a video conference platform. This method allows learners to create and share learning experiences across distances and time. I will tell you a little secret. Virtual learning technology (VILT) is synonymous with many terms, such as live online learning, virtual classrooms, virtual learning, and virtual training. These terms may be used interchangeably.
Instructor-led training (ILT), unlike VILT, is held in a traditional four-walled classroom. This classroom training allows the instructor to be present but also the participants in the same room. The VILT classroom is often accessed online.
Virtual Instructor-Led Training: Key Benefits
The most frequently cited benefit of using VILT is its ability to reduce the training budget. Because organizations don't have to pay for the large cumulative cost of hotels, flights, or rental cars, it is more economical to bring together employees for in-person training programs. This means that employees will be able to travel less and, hopefully, increase their productivity at work.
Additional benefits include the ability to continue the
dynamic of live learning, live instructors, and the possibility for group
discussions, Q&A, and feedback from virtual facilitators. There is also the
potential to have a live discussion with a guest expert as part of traditional
ILT. You can connect from anywhere, and you can even attend remotely during
illness, adverse weather conditions, or other family commitments. Because
global participants can connect from anywhere, the virtual learning space
expands their reach.
Tips for Facilitating Virtual Instructor-Led Training
These are some key tips to make sure your VILT training sessions are effective and reach your learning goals.
Blended learning is a strategy that combines synchronous training (live sessions with on-demand activities) to create a cohesive training program. You could ask learners to view a video, listen to or read an article about the topic before they attend VILT. This will prepare them for richer discussions and increase their interest in the topic.
A producer can be your partner - It is a great idea to work with a producer. Facilitators can rely on them to help with technical problems, allowing them to be more focused on the learners and their learning experience.
Prepare a facilitator guide. This document guides producers, learners, and facilitators so that everyone knows who will do what and clarifies expectations.
Keep VILT sessions brief - Less is more! Limit learning segment sessions to no more than two hours. Live VILT sessions should last no more than 90 minutes. You can spread out several sessions over several weeks to provide a complete learning program. Participants should be able to move about and refresh themselves during longer sessions.
For a great training experience, incorporate interactive learning activities. - Give learners multiple opportunities to share ideas, use concepts, and annotate on a virtual board. Then, break down into small groups with 3-4 people.
Choose a virtual instructor-led training platform
Many VILT platforms are available for virtual training. Zoom, Adobe Connect, and Webex are some of the most popular platforms. Consider the various features available on each platform, as well as their limitations and ease of use, cost, and cost. You can then choose the platform that best suits your company.
Many platforms offer common interactive tools that you can use for online learning activities. You should ensure that the platform you choose has all of the features you require, such as screen sharing, whiteboarding tools to facilitate small group work, annotation toolbars for learners and facilitators to annotate visuals, chat and virtual hand raising, live polling, high-quality video cameras, and icons to represent learner reactions.
The benefits of Live Instructor-Led Training are numerous
and can be used to support interactive and well-designed learning. Your
organization will enjoy greater flexibility and cost savings by adding VILT
training to its portfolio.
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