Maximizing the Impact of Virtual Training to Achieve Learning Results

I recently read a blog on the ATD (Association of Talent Development) website titled "Three Truths About Virtual Training." As virtual learning continues to play a key role in today's workforce, I wanted to recap the blog and add some of my own perspectives. I'll also share the helpful resources in the article to ensure you have the tools to implement these best practices in your virtual training programs.

Here's what I learned and some actionable tips for your virtual training initiatives:

Conduct an Engagement Audit: Set the Stage for Active Participation

Learner engagement is the first step toward successful on-the-job application. Many virtual training programs fall short because they must set clear expectations for active participation. When learners are distracted or disengaged, achieving the desired outcomes becomes nearly impossible.

An engagement audit helps you assess whether your virtual training program is structured to capture and maintain attention. Ask yourself:

• Does the program set clear expectations for learner participation?
• Does the content feel relevant and applicable to their work?
• Are there interactive elements (such as polls, discussions, or group activities) that keep learners actively involved?

By making the content more engaging and relevant, learners are more likely to retain and apply what they've learned in their daily roles. Spark greater attention by offering real-world examples and case studies that relate directly to your learners' tasks. Engagement drives retention, which in turn drives performance.

Conduct a Modality Audit: Is Virtual Training the Right Solution?

Virtual training is a highly effective learning solution—sometimes. While it offers flexibility and accessibility, it may not always be the best modality for certain content or objectives.

Performing a modality audit helps determine if virtual training is the right choice for delivering the content. Ask these questions:

• Does the content lend itself to interactive discussions and real-time feedback?
• Can the skills taught be easily demonstrated and practiced in a virtual setting?
• Are learners able to fully grasp the material in an online environment, or would hands-on, in-person training be more effective?

If virtual training is the best option, ensure the sessions are designed for maximum engagement. Consider breaking the content into shorter, more digestible segments and including interactive components that allow learners to practice what they've learned in real time.

Conduct a Technology Audit: Ensure Your Platform Meets Learning Needs

Not all online platforms are created equal. The technology you choose can make or break the virtual learning experience. Conducting a technology audit allows you to assess whether your current platform supports the learning objectives and enhances engagement—or if it requires workarounds that detract from the training.

Key questions to ask during this audit include:

• Does the platform provide the tools necessary for interactive learning (e.g., breakout rooms, polls, real-time quizzes)?
• How easily can facilitators and learners navigate the platform without technical difficulties?
• Are there any workarounds required to deliver the training, and if so, how much extra effort is required?
• Does the platform integrate seamlessly with your organization's meeting or collaboration tools?

A seamless and intuitive technology platform enables learners to focus on the content rather than struggling with technical issues, ensuring that learning objectives are met.

Virtual Training: The Right Approach for the Right Situation

While virtual training offers flexibility and accessibility, it is important to recognize when it is the best fit. Some content is better delivered in person, particularly when hands-on practice is needed or when face-to-face interaction enhances learning. However, when virtual training is the right choice, designing it thoughtfully—based on engagement, modality, and technology audits—will lead to more effective learning outcomes.

Recommended Resources for Virtual Training Success

For those looking to elevate their virtual training programs, I highly recommend The Virtual Training Guidebook, 2nd Edition, by Cindy Huggett, CPTD. This guidebook offers practical insights on designing, delivering, and implementing live online learning. If you want to put these insights into action, consider the companion volume Virtual Training Tools and Templates, which provides 185 checklists, questionnaires, templates, and other practical tools for implementing key lessons.

Virtual training is here to stay, and with the right actions, it can be as effective—if not more so—than traditional in-person training. By conducting engagement, modality, and technology audits, you can ensure that your virtual training program is designed to keep learners engaged and equipped to apply their new knowledge.

Are you ready to audit your virtual training programs and elevate learning outcomes? You can start by assessing your current practices and making the necessary adjustments to create a seamless, engaging, and impactful learning experience for your team.