[Part 1 of this article appeared in yesterday’s edition.]
Typically, organizations will use an LMS (learning management system) to manage their learning content and employee profiles, among other things. The type of LMS your organization will require will depend on its size and needs.
What Kind of Technology Will I Need for My E-Learning Programs?
There are cloud-based subscription LMS models, as well as models that require customizable software. In addition, the type of technology you need may also depend on what other systems you want it to integrate with (e.g., talent management systems, customer management systems, accounting systems, and other business systems).
How Much Does E-Learning Cost?
This will depend on the type of LMS your organization needs, as well as how many learning programs you’ll need to create and administer. Overall, however, e-learning is less expensive than other learning methods because trainees won’t need to spend money traveling to physical locations, and trainers won’t always need to be hired to conduct training sessions or distribute printed materials that cost money.
How Can E-Learners Access Learning Content?
E-learning content is typically accessed through an LMS platform that’s located in the cloud, where learners will engage with learning content via a Web browser. Other times they can engage with learning content on their mobile devices. Or they may be required to use a special software they access on their desktop computers.
What Kind of E-Learning Content Is There?
- Videos
- Virtual simulations
- Games
- Quizzes and tests
- Downloadable documents (PDF files, images, slide shares, etc.)
- Podcasts and audio recordings
- Discussion and message boards
- Modules with tasks to complete
What are Some Common Problems that Occur with E-Learning?
- Choosing the wrong LMS model for your organization
- Gaining executive buy-in and proper funding
- Poor time management for both trainers and learners (i.e., knowing how long it will take to create or administer a course or program, and learners who procrastinate or don’t complete e-learning courses or assignments in a timely manner)
- Getting others to adopt your e-learning technology, especially individuals who aren’t adept at using technology
- Technical issues with LMSs and inadequate support when there are issues accessing learning content
What Are the Main Benefits to E-Learning?
- Cost-effective when compared to other learning methods
- Convenient for learners who will have 24/7 access to learning content
- Great for businesses that have remote workers or global teams
- Cloud-based LMS models are (for the most part) very easy to implement and manage
- Pedagogically speaking, e-learning increases learner retention in a lot of cases (i.e., gamification, repeated and synchronized information), it’s more engaging for learners, and it encompasses a variety of learning styles (visual, auditory, etc.)