Face-to-Face vs. Online Training
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Educational methods of instruction and learning have progressed remarkably over time. Major changes in our daily activities have been brought by the current global crisis, the COVID-19 outbreak. Due to the global crisis, industries across the world have made rapid changes and taken the necessary measures to their working environments. The L&D industry is no different, and a shift from traditional classroom training to online learning has taken place. A great number of companies have been heavily dependent on in-person training but now, following the restrictions of COVID on the workplace and travel we are witnessing a rapid shift of classroom content online. This disruption on the regular methods of conducting things makes it all the more important for flexible training strategies to be adopted by the L&D industry.
What is online learning?
The definition of online learning (or e-learning) refers to any kind of learning that takes place digitally. All a learner needs is a stable internet connection and a device such as a laptop, tablet, or smartphone whereby they can log on from anywhere. Online learning can take place either synchronously or asynchronously. Synchronous learning happens in real-time, like through a live training session on Zoom. Usually in this type of training method the instructor is required to facilitate the learning environment. Asynchronous learning, on the other hand, does not rely on the presence of an instructor. Thus, allowing learners to engage with their learning materials at their own pace and time. This could be through recorded video-based lecture, an e-learning course, or downloadable PDF sources. The instructor can tailor their online learning process to a wide range of learning styles depending on the objective they want to achieve.
What is face-to-face learning?
By definition, face-to-face learning takes place in person. This means that both learners and instructors need to be physically present in the same room at the same time to be able to interact with each other. Therefore, face-to-face learning can only be carried out synchronously. The traditional classroom is a perfect and most familiar example of face-to-face learning. In a face-to-face learning environment the instructor delivers a timed lesson as learners sit in the same room, taking in the content or information that is being delivered to them. Face-to-face learning also involves group discussions or interactive work with peers, so long as it takes place during a scheduled time and a set location.
What are some challenges facing online learning?
Although online learning has managed to attract lots of attention, many still face some challenges when it comes to this mode of learning. Some of the challenges faced by instructors and learners are:
Adaptability: switching from traditional classroom and face-to-face instructor training to online training makes the learning experience for learners entirely different. Learners' resistance to change doesn’t allow them to adapt to the online learning environment. While passive listening and note taking are expected in a traditional classroom, online discussions demand actions. Learners with a traditional mindset find it difficult to adapt.
Technical Issues: many students are not well equipped with a high internet connection that is required for online learning. Due to this, they face problems in going live for virtual learning and other online methods of education that require an internet connection. A slow and high internet connection can play an important role in how quickly you can attend the class and do not miss any live sessions.
Computer Knowledge: lack of computer knowledge is a major concern in today’s world. There are many learners who still can’t operate basic programs such as Microsoft Word and PowerPoint, and therefore are not able to handle their files. In this regard, they face difficulties with live sessions, usage of appropriate icons, communication-related apps and websites, and browsing study materials.
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Time Management: in many cases, students find difficulty in managing their time with online learning. Online learning is relatively new for them and requires intensive work. They need a scheduled planner to manage their time in an effective manner. Online learning provides flexible time, unlike traditional classrooms. But some face difficulties in adjusting to the time required for online learning.
Self-motivation: self-motivation is an essential requirement, however, many online learners lack it. After enrolling in distance learning courses, many learners fall behind and start losing hope when they face difficulties in online learning. It requires motivation to complete tasks and engage students with their learning.
Communication: learners lack effective communication skills during online learning. Some learners are not comfortable with the new model of learning and might not be able to communicate with their instructors and peers effectively. This might happen due to lack of interest or inability to express themselves via live chats, emails or text messages.
Feedback: learners need feedback for their performance during the learning process so that they can improve their learning abilities. Research suggests that in online learning learners hardly visit their assessments and assignments to check for feedback. Feedback in the online learning model will be difficult for learners to understand and implement.
What is Blended Learning?
Blended learning is a learning approach to training whereby there is a combination of online educational materials and opportunities for interaction online with traditional classroom methods. It requires the physical presence of both the instructor and learner, with some elements of learner control over time, place, path, or place. Blended learning encourages the personalization of the learning or training experience by combining the best practices of in-person teaching with online based learning methods.
In conclusion, although face-to-face learning has been the standard way of instruction for many years now, L&D professionals are increasingly shifting from face-to-face learning to online learning. This is because in those unpredictable times face-to-face learning is no longer practical. Although there are several challenges that instructors and learners face during online learning, it has proved to be just as effective because it is keen to produce autonomous individuals and critical thinkers.
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