How To Keep Away From These Hidden Traps In Hybrid eLearning
Hybrid options in eLearning offer flexibility, no doubt. Learners can join the experience either in person or online. This blended learning approach benefits learners the same, no matter how they choose to engage in the learning experience. However, it also has its own hidden challenges that can sometimes find professionals unprepared. Most of the problems that are presented in this article can be avoided through preparation and research. Continue reading to find out about tips to avoid those hybrid eLearning pitfalls and achieve the best results in helping your learners.
5 Challenges In Hybrid eLearning And How To Overcome Them
1. You Haven't Trained The Users
The most important thing in the eLearning process is your learners' ability to use the software you are providing them. It is essential that you onboarded them properly, showing them how to use the eLearning platform you have chosen. Whether they use the platform remotely or at the office, the first step is to make sure they are familiar with it. You shouldn't assume they know everything. Even if they do know the tool inside and out, it's thoughtful to show them that you care and that you want to avoid any confusion. Create an introductory lesson to train them in using the chosen platform, or have an experienced employee explain how the software works. The more informed they are, the better the learning process will go for them.
2. You Have Chosen The Wrong LMS
Not having the correct Learning Management System is one of the most common hybrid learning pitfalls. You have already chosen an LMS, but does it suit your current needs? The first step is to make sure that your LMS is relatively new and updated. Old or outdated LMSs can have a negative impact on the learning experience, and switching to a new one can help you save money, time, and effort. New systems give better impressions, too. You don't want your employees to be disappointed by a user-unfriendly platform. So, choose and invest wisely.
3. You Are Using The Wrong Content
One of the most common challenges in eLearning is using the wrong content. For example, you should avoid using materials containing only text, as it is discouraging for your learners. In order to create interesting courses and training materials, you have to use fresh, media-centered content. First, check if you already have content that you can equip, like webinars you used in the past, videos, or presentations. If those fit the learning experience you want to create, then consider adapting them to your current needs. If they don't, you can find a suitable content provider to create engaging eLearning content. Consult a directory of content providers, and be sure to read reviews and ratings first.
4. You Haven't Researched The eLearning Industry
Another hybrid learning pitfall is not doing your research. The eLearning field is constantly evolving, and you have to follow trends in order to deliver the best practices for your organization. Do your homework, figure out how to develop new or existing skills, and try not to let your L&D program fall behind. Not staying on top of trends will have a negative impact on your results and what you are trying to achieve for your learners. You don't want to miss out on possible features that will make everything easier. Some new trends that you can check out and try to integrate into your eLearning methods are Virtual Reality (VR) and serious games. See how you can incorporate those new trends or others that better suit your purpose.
5. You Are Not Aware Of Your Company's Needs
As far as research is concerned, you shouldn't only research the eLearning industry to see which tech or delivery methods are available, but your own company as well. You can't choose or create the eLearning material that fits your organization if you don't know the employees' needs. Some people may need different training methods, depending on their field of work. You also have to consider their workload and schedules to be sure you create the perfect eLearning plan for them. Of course, these needs change, so each year you should prepare different learning materials with the latest information to target areas for improvement.
Another topic you should consider is budget. How much is your company willing to spend on eLearning? What can you do with that amount? Don't settle for cheaper software or tools without researching first. You could land deals and still purchase the best resources to help you with your eLearning. There are a lot of options to choose from, and budget shouldn't restrict you. If you have found the perfect match but it's out of your price range, support your choice with concrete data in order to secure the software that you believe will benefit your company.
Conclusion
It's not always easy to identify the most common hybrid learning pitfalls, but once you do, it's easy to avoid them through planning and needs analysis. First, train your learners to help them familiarize themselves with the software you are going to use for eLearning. Then, make sure you are using the correct LMS and that you are creating engaging eLearning content. Of course, you have to do some research on eLearning trends and your company's learning and budget needs. With the proper information and preparation, you're sure to achieve the best results for your hybrid eLearning program.
Check out The Best LMS Solutions For Hybrid Learning Courses list to find the right tool for your L&D program.
