Training workers is crucial, no matter the job or industry. In order for employees to be successful, they need the proper education and training to understand their jobs and the requirements that come with it. No matter the industry, there is a certain level of difficulty that is expected with teaching processes, using tools, and other requirements. For some industries, training takes longer than others. In industries with a high turnover rate and the retirement of veteran employees, there is a vacancy of nearly 41 million jobs. Additionally, these industries are difficult to learn, requiring two years to complete apprenticeships or sometimes even longer. The extended timeframe required to complete such training has made many companies realize they do not have the time, nor the resources.
In the past, veteran workers were available to train and share their expertise with new employees, but as these employees grow older and retire, the gap continues to widen. This increasing gap has many companies looking for an alternative training method that will teach new workers the ins and outs quickly and efficiently. In addition to the decrease in the number of competent workers already in the field, traditional one-on-one training is not as important to younger generations as it once was (not to mention being problematic these days due to the COVID-19 pandemic). The preferred methods of training for younger workers are more modern, meaning they gain more knowledge by visual learning and being able to access information constantly. For example, informational videos and fast Internet searches to answer the questions they have on the spot often prove more beneficial. While this method is relatively new, companies are being forced to adapt their training methods, increasing practicality and efficiency, to prepare younger generations for work in the field.
Why Use E-Learning
While some learn best while performing a task, it is not easy to educate workers on the job. E-learning gives companies a chance to train their new employees and give further instruction to their current employees. This digital solution gives workers access to lessons and materials in an environment that is very different from a traditional classroom setting. Plus, companies can reach more trainees in a quicker amount of time on a limited budget.
With the development of e-learning, current employees can learn how to use the latest technology such as field service software in their average workday. Online training can increase productivity, as it avoids taking time out of workers’ busy schedules or delaying projects or other necessary tasks. Digital solutions allow workers to learn at their own pace and carefully analyze the material.
3 Ways to Maximize the Benefits of E-Learning
Time is of the essence for many companies, so the need to be creative with tools to accommodate trainees’ learning styles is interrelated to the success of the workers and the company itself. Younger generations are more accustomed to visual learning, so as they enter the workforce, companies will need to implement visual learning to cater to their new employees’ need to learn interactively.
1. Learning interactively: Learning interactively is a great way to give workers hands-on experience without placing them in the field. Developing simulations or utilizing online lessons can keep trainees engaged, which helps ensure they are prepared once they do begin work. For instance, watching an interactive video can help workers learn how to use specific tools before diving in at the worksite.
2. Assessments and quizzes: E-Learning has proven beneficial for many companies, but one way for companies to test whether these lessons are working is by assigning assessments to test workers’ knowledge throughout or at the end of each lesson. It is common practice to give these assessments at the end of each module before allowing trainees to move on. Along with helping employees work at their own pace, e-learning also gives workers the opportunity to take these assessments when they feel ready without fear of being judged by coworkers who may be further along. For example, using quizzes to gauge how well employees, both new and old, understand how to use specific tools is one beneficial way to use the technology.
3. Visual learning: It is important for companies to utilize their employees’ No. 1 learning style to help them absorb information to the best of their ability. With younger generations preferring visual learning, companies are beginning to implement more videos. With videos incorporated into training modules, employees can see the applicable aspects of what needs to be done on the job, and how they need to complete the task. For example, when a new field service software is being implemented, important information about how to fill out digital forms can help integrate the solution into everyday work.
Should Companies Be Concerned?
With employees’ learning styles changing recently, some companies may be concerned that learning styles will change again just as they get used to the interactive learning method. However, as time goes on, people will be more dependent on phones and gadgets rather than on a desktop. Most e-learning is mobile friendly and those that are not can easily be made mobile friendly. According to a Microsoft study, 77 percent of people aged 18 to 24 claim that when nothing is occupying their attention, the first thing they do is reach for their phone, compared to the mere 10 percent of those 65 and older who do the same. Such statistics can help ease company concerns that these new learning methods are not here to stay. The reality is, younger generations have grown up with technology and phones, and their dependency on technology is not likely to dissipate. Companies can take this fact and find comfort in their implementation of visual learning through technology.
While it may be challenging to train workers with a new preferred learning style, e-learning capabilities offer a smooth process as employees learn and eventually implement the lesson. Not only is it beneficial for the process itself, it also gives trainees the chance to work at their own speed and ensure they understand the content and regulations. The product of these benefits can optimize a company’s resources and increase the quality of education for their employees.
Travis Parigi is the founder and chief executive officer at LiquidFrameworks. Parigi focuses on growing LiquidFrameworks’ software platform and evangelizing its benefits to customers. He plays an active role in the technology, architecture, and overall product vision of the company. Prior to LiquidFrameworks, Parigi was a founding member and served as a senior engagement manager for Emerging, Inc., an e-business professional services firm funded by Austin Ventures and Benchmark Capital with offices across the U.S. For more information:
Website: www.liquidframeworks.com
Email: tparigi@liquidframeworks.com
Twitter: @tparigi
LinkedIn: Travis Parigi
