Employees that are effectively trained are happier and more productive, so it’s important to take care when considering not only the material that needs to be taught but the method used for training.

What are the different types of training methods?

• Simulators
• On-the-job training.
• Coaching/mentoring.
• Instructor-led training.
• Online / Web-based training
• Films and videos.
• Case studies.

 

• Simulators

Simulations are an effective training technique for fields that require a specific set of skills for operating complex machinery, such as in the medical or aviation industries. Successful simulations reflect actual work situations and allow trainees to solve issues that they will likely face on the job.

• On-the-job training

On-the-job or hands-on training jumps straight to the practical skills necessary for the job. New hires begin working immediately with this training method. In some cases, it may be beneficial to incorporate an employee shadowing component. This will allow new hires to gain a little insight into the context and job requirements before trying it on their own.

• Coaching/mentoring

While a structured curriculum has its place in training, there are many benefits to mentorship and coaching. Implementing a mentorship program at your company, along with other training methods, creates employee development opportunities as well as develops relationships that help new employees feel welcomed and supported.

Mentorship is invaluable, but it does come with its challenges. Your best employees will be asked to take time away from their work to train and grow newer staff members. Though it proves to be beneficial in the end, it will require a little sacrifice.

• Instructor-led training

Classroom-style training is the most traditional and popular training method for employees. This method mimics other classrooms in that an instructor prepares and leads the experience, usually using a lecture-style presentation with a visual component.

This style of training has many benefits, one of which is that trainees can interact with their trainer. Questions are asked that might otherwise go unaddressed in other training methods. It also allows for relationship building between the trainer and the trainee as well as among the employees that are going through the training together.

A major challenge for instructor-led training is the inability to scale it. If the classroom is too large, it can inhibit instructors from interacting one-on-one with the trainees. Additionally, in-person monitoring is required throughout the entire training. Trainees are unable to move at their own pace in this environment.

It’s important to keep the energy high if you’re using this training method. Allow students opportunities to take breaks and move around, and encourage engagement to avoid trainees from losing interest.

• Online / Web-based training

Also known as computer-based training (CBT), distance learning, or e-learning, online training is a form of instruction that takes place completely on the internet. It involves a variety of multimedia elements, including graphics, audio, video, and web links, which all can be accessed through one’s internet browser using different platforms. These elements are used in lieu of traditional classroom components.

In addition to presenting course material and content, online training gives students the opportunity for live interactions and real-time feedback for such things as quizzes and tests. Interactions between instructors and trainees are also conducted via an online medium, through such methods as chat, e-mail, or other web-based communication.

Online training is generally self-paced and customizable to suit an individual’s specific learning needs. Therefore, online training can be conducted at almost any time and place, provided there is a computer with high-speed internet access. This makes this form of training convenient for the users, who can modify their training to fit into their day-to-day schedule.

To use online training, users should have a basic knowledge of computers. This should include but is not limited to, the ability to use a mouse, which involves knowing the difference between left-click and right-click; the ability to open and close documents and web pages; and the ability to navigate a website and web pages. Those with no computer experience at all may have trouble using our online training and, for their own benefit, may want to enroll in a basic computer training class before using any of our online courses. Advanced computer users will be able to use our eLearning system to its full capacity.

• Roleplaying

This technique is usually executed with a trainee and a facilitator (or trainer), where each is allowed to act out different potential work scenarios. This method is most effective in industries that require client or customer interaction, as it allows employees to practice handling difficult situations.

• Films and videos

The video has quickly gained popularity as an effective training technique. It aids companies in training employees more quickly and efficiently. Many employees prefer it to reading materials. There are several approaches to training videos. Some companies choose one approach depending on the material, while others combine a few approaches into one video seamlessly. The approaches include:

• Animation: This style allows complex topics to be explained through visual illustrations. If a topic is difficult to record, the animation is probably the best method.
• Live-action: Live-action videos are more demonstrative and are great for showing appropriate and inappropriate interactions through role-play scenes.
• To-camera: This approach features a narrator who directly addresses the viewer. Typically, the narrator is communicating the information through a more lecture-style format.
• Screen recorded: This method features a recording of things happening on the computer screen. It’s perfect for showing employees how to use new digital tools through a step-by-step process.

Videos can make difficult material more interactive, engaging, and demonstrative. Additionally, like computer-based training, the material is easily accessible. An in-person facilitator is unnecessary and employees can revisit the information whenever they need it.

Though making videos is relatively affordable, it can be time-consuming. It may be beneficial to partner with a training video agency to save yourself valuable time and frustration.