Keeping the Classroom

While much of the training industry is moving to eLearning, it doesn’t make sense for all types of training. Trying to create an online course when it doesn’t make sense can lead to costly development that doesn’t actually train your audience. When you hear complaints about eLearning, many times it’s because it was a bad fit for what was being taught. When you’re trying to decide if you should keep the classroom think about the following:

What are you teaching?

This is probably the most critical question you will face. Are you teaching theory, history, or something that would normally all be in a textbook? If so, eLearning may be a good choice. However, if you are teaching something technical that requires hands-on experience or studying complex diagrams, then the classroom is better.

Will your students learn better alone or in groups?

If you’re trying to teach Six Sigma there’s no better method than breaking off into groups and putting the methods into practice.

Is the exchange of ideas critical to your curriculum?

If it’s important for your students to talk things out and explore ideas, then the classroom is essential.

Does your company support the technology required to deliver effective eLearning?

Even if eLearning works for your training, you still may not be able to do it if you don’t have the right technology in place.

Do you want to avoid the classroom but eLearning is not a good fit?

You can still avoid the classroom through live distance learning and blended training, which are discussed in our options page.