Web Based Training vs. Classroom Training

By Nick at 16 September, 2007, 2:06 am

We all know that web-based education and training delivery is on the rise. Some believe that we should shift all training onto an e-learning platform to save many types of costs.

I realize the issue is very complicated, but I’d like to ask for your feedback with the following question.

Question: What types of organizational education and training requirements do you feel can be shifted over to an all web-based learning platform, and (2), what kinds of organizational education and training requirements must only be delivered in the classroom?

Procedual knowledge (e.g. learning applications) should be held in face-to-face classrooms; while as conceptual knowledge could be move in a pure online environment. Do you mean to say that all “cognitive” learning can be shifted over to e-learning platforms, but “psychomotor” skills training should always be accomplished face-to-face? What about “affective” skills training? Can we trust that this training requirement be accomplished only on-line?

I’m not the expert in this particular subject matter content, but maybe a mixed format that maximizes the advantages of a web-based format.

Cognitive learning and privacy are obvious advantages of web-based education so maybe a “homework” assignment followed by a face-to-face interactive discussion. One example is a psychological bias test that people can complete on-line (I think Harvard has a project going on using this kind of instrument) anyway, people can examine their biases in private and debrief with an instructor.

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Comments
jonathan September 18, 2007

Hi Nick, I would suggest that anything which needs to be “repeatable” (induction, health & safety etc) can be online. With the added bonus of feedback on the participant input.

This sort of training wastes time - or rather leeches time from organisations.

I would suggest that anything staffing or personnel related be done “face-to-face”. Too many businesses communicate details of staffing changes and the like by sending an email with half a dozen word documents attached.

Not sure if this helps (?)

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