The pros and cons of online training

THE PROS AND CONS OF ONLINE TRAINING

Mike Bates, our Training Manager, has written a blog describing his experience with online training for PLPs’ PFQ and PMQ participants and Level 4 Associate Project Manager apprentices. Read Mike’s blog to learn about the advantages and disadvantages to online training, from his experience as an online APM trainer.

HOW WE STARTED ONLINE TRAINING

It was March 2020 when we were informed by the client that no more classroom-based contact was permitted and made the decision to switch over to a video conferencing delivery mode for a trial period. This was for our very first group of Level 4 Associate Project Manager apprentices. I wanted to share the advantages and disadvantages I have experience from online training over the last 18 months and where we are now.

PROS AND CONS TO ONLINE TRAINING

ADVANTAGES

Learned how to increase engagement by using new technical solutions such as Miro Board, online flip-chart or using an onscreen pen.
The more we conducted online learning, the more comfortable we became as trainers teaching advance material through video delivery.
It helps to have two trainers conducting the same session, especially when technical glitches occur and breaks can be had between the two trainers.
Recording of the sessions for those that can’t make any part of the course is appreciated by the delegates.
Break-out rooms and online polls and quizzes have also added to the level of engagement.
No travel requirements!

DISADVANTAGES

In the beginning, we experienced technical problems.
The lack of immediate feedback we as tutors get from not being able to be in the same space as the learners. It makes one realise just how much information you get from that real face to face environment.
We have to plan for frequent lightweight assessments to keep track of learning, but this is working well because of our students’ high marks.
It’s definitely more tiring for staff doing the delivery; the level of concentration needed seems much higher watching and achieving a balanced integration with those present.

Throughout the 18 months we have adapted to the changing environments for training and we have come out from the other side with amazing pass rates and great testimonials. For more information about our courses, pass rates and reviews, visit our training page and social medias.