Online e-learning and mobile learning are still gaining popularity in the workplace, but it’s important to note that workplace learners still prefer hands-on training and on-the-job training opportunities—even more than digital learning experiences. And research continues to show that blended learning is still critical to the modern-day workplace. 
If you want to continually engage your employee learners this year, there are four types of hands-on training programs you’ll want to implement.
1. Technology
Don’t assume all your employees know how and when to use certain technologies. Make sure you adequately demonstrate how to navigate certain platforms and apps, including messaging apps and platforms, learning apps and platforms, data visualization tools, project management tools, Human Resources tools, etc. And cover when they should be used within specified workplace contexts.
In addition, make sure you show them via demonstration or in real time how to mitigate cybersecurity threats. For example, demonstrate how to log on to private networks, how to use platforms and apps securely, how to understand ransomware threats and malware threats, etc. A human being is still the weakest link when it comes to a business’s cybersecurity.
2. Safety
Now that active shooter drills are becoming common inside the workplace, it’s imperative that employees experience them in person. If you can’t conduct them in person, then you should at least have simulated environments for safety training programs.
You can also use virtual reality simulations to enable employees to explore fire exits and learn what to do in other unsafe environments or situations, such as when there’s a chemical leak or when someone is choking.
3. Communications
Having difficult conversations at work causes stress or anxiety for a lot of employees, and many don’t communicate effectively or efficiently with one another. The best way for them to learn about communication strategies and techniques is to practice them in person.
Have employees talk to one another and engage in communication exercises in person, and have them role-play during these exercises. Then, have them send e-mails and difficult memos to each other. Practicing this skill hands-on rather than watching a video or reading an article will better enable them to become good communicators.
4. Management Coaching and Shadowing
According to one survey, 44% of managers felt unprepared for their roles, and 87% wished they’d had more training before becoming a manager.
One of the best ways to prepare your future managers is to offer them hands-on training experiences and give them management-related tasks before they’re thrown into their roles.
As they’re learning how to be a manager, allow them to shadow current managers so that they can get a feel for what it’s like, and have current managers coach them and offer best practices and tips for what to do once they become full-time.
Keep the four types of hands-on training in mind in 2019 if you want to set your employees up for success.