What kind of Learning Suits You? Results of Our Survey show.......

Since the onset of the Pandemic in March 2020, evidence shows that initially the requirement to use digital methods to train and teach would feature long term across many industries, yet 18 months on the consensus is that blended learning of the new style of “hybrid learning” is the preferred option.

Blended learning focuses solely on incorporating distance learning with traditional instruction, in this case, face-to-face training or teaching,, whilst “Hybrid Learning” focuses more on implementing any kind of learning technique to better train or teach content, regardless of whether delivery is online of face- to-face.

Why Stay Online?

The demand for online training h=and learning has increased dramatically as the restrictions relating to covid remained in place. Daily webinars - a diluted version of a more structured training session, eliminated the risk of delegates mixing necessarily and provided a much more relaxed approach to learning. In effect, it made perfect sense to reduce travel time and cost for both trainers and learners.

What about Face-to-Face Learning?

Yet, our Solution Focused Survey illustrates that 18 months on the learner is exhausted and overwhelmed with ‘Zoom” fatigue. Clearly, the practicality of this option is still attractive, however, the majority of respondents tour survey - 86% - prefer the ability to return to the training room and engage not only with the trainer but also other delegates.

This overwhelming response indicated that the learners were not only more willing to mix with other people but felt that the psychological element was conducive to more informed learning. And we are not referring to the more relaxed webinar style training, this relates to structured short courses and qualification driven learning.

98% of replies prefer being able to have lengthy discussions with trainer/colleagues, without the interruption of external factors, namely technical problems. Plus, it is always nice to familiar faces and meet new people.

What Kind of Learning will Suit You moving forward?

Our survey showed that face-to-face is preferred for the more formal training - 83% of learners felt that being able to delve into the detail of qualifications and more formal training was far more attractive, compared to 34% of learners who found that the Webinar relaxed style of delivery was more like having “white noise” in the background.

What Style of Presentation ?

The test of seriousness versus the relaxed approach of the different background screens, delay in response, and the option for screens off or screens on has created a mixed reaction. 53% liked the ability to be so relaxed that they could just appear on line with little effort. However, the opportunity to get ready for , dress up and go to a location now has a certain amount of appeal. My WFH is now done so let loose and reopen the wardrobe and dig out your shoes.

Our VLE compliments blended, especially with our most recent innovation which focuses on the Level 3 Technical Award providing a range of useful resources that further support learning.