Why Skill-Based Online Training Is Better Than Knowledge-Based
Skills are the building blocks of corporate training. Every piece of information we collect and every experience that we encounter helps us hone our abilities. In essence, skills allow us to put all the pieces together, and use the knowledge we have to overcome obstacles, from resolving everyday conflicts to achieving lifelong goals. Here are 5 convincing arguments in favor of skill-based online training versus a traditional knowledge-based online training.
1. Facilitates Real-World Application
We use skills every waking moment of our lives. Using the computer requires technical literacy, while communicating with colleagues requires conflict resolution and interpersonal skills. Skills give us the power to reach our goals and fulfill our true potential. As such, skill-based online training and real-world application go hand-in-hand. Corporate learners have the opportunity to put their talents into practice, which improves information recall. For example, a task simulation allows them to fine-tune their abilities and test out different approaches.
2. Improves Knowledge Retention
Real-world application allows corporate learners to assign meaning to the information. As such, they are more likely to retain the key takeaways, especially since they’ve already matched the subject matter with its corresponding skills. For example, they need communication and problem solving skills to tap into their newfound customer service online training. Skill-based online training helps them assimilate new knowledge, and connect it to pre-existing concepts. For instance, creative reasoning skills allow them to see the relationship between two ideas, so that they can solve the problem.
3. Fosters Lifelong Learning
Skills are multi-purpose tools that corporate learners can use time after time. For example, communication skills help them avoid conflicts in and out of the office, while creative reasoning abilities allow them to see problems from every angle. Through this process, corporate learners are able to explore new and creative ways to apply their skill sets. They can also find new solutions to common problems. This triggers a domino effect of self-reflection and evaluation. Corporate learners have the opportunity to challenge their own assumptions and beliefs in order to grow as individuals. As a result, skill-based online training fosters lifelong learning and helps corporate learners achieve their true potential.
4. Focuses On Qualitative Online Training Experiences
Skill-based online training is all about how corporate learners use their knowledge and skills, rather than how much knowledge they've acquired. In other words, it facilitates qualitative online learning experiences that move beyond mere memorization. Corporate learners must be able to use what they've learned, manipulate the information, and put it all into context. The question is how you assess skills in order to measure learner progress and proficiency. One of the most effective methods is through interactive eLearning assessments. For example, scenarios or simulations that test practical knowledge application. Check the results of your eLearning assessments frequently and make the necessary modifications to your online training content to maximize the effectiveness of your online training course.
5. Learner-Centered
Traditional online training programs are usually built around the instructor. Corporate learners rely on them to impart information and reinforce the key takeaways, whereas a skill-based approach is primarily learner-centered. The online instructor may ignite their motivation and begin the process, but corporate learners will gradually take the reins and explore the subject matter on their own. For example, access supplemental online training resources in order to build sub-skills or improve task proficiency.
4 Tips To Create An Effective Skill-Based Online Training Course
1. Add Interactivity
The most effective way to build skills and facilitate knowledge transfer is by adding interactive elements. For this purpose, select an eLearning authoring tool with built-in features like eLearning templates, characters and images. Create online training activities that involve real-world situations, challenges, and characters. For instance, a task-based online training scenario that features customer personas. Corporate learners must apply a broad range of skills to help the customer and address their needs. Interactive online training activities also boost engagement and make the online training experience more realistic and relatable. Corporate learners are able to see how their actions and decisions affect the overall outcome. As an example, they may not be able to complete a task-based online simulation because they lack the necessary skills. Therefore, they can seek out additional online training materials to bridge the gap.
2. Conduct Pre-Assessments
Since we're on the subject of gaps, online pre-assessments give corporate learners the power to evaluate their own skill and performance gaps beforehand. They can also help you custom-tailor your online training course to meet learners' needs. For example, the online training assessments reveal that most of your corporate learners lack basic communication skills. Therefore, you may want to add this skill to their curriculum to build a solid foundation moving forward.
3. Create Targeted Online Training Materials
Skill-based online training materials serve as ideal "moment of need" resources. As such, you should target your online training content based on the needs, goals, and preferences of your corporate learners. For example, targeted online training activities that improve workplace productivity and center on existing skill gaps. Consider a microlearning online repository that features bite-sized online training activities, modules, online tutorials, videos, and assessments. Corporate learners can access the library whenever the need arises, which means that they can focus on individual areas for improvement in order to achieve their goals.
4. Allow For Self-Guided Exploration
Corporate learners must have the chance to explore the subject matter asynchronously and reflect on the core competencies. For this reason, self-paced learning paths are usually an ideal addition to skill-based online training programs. Let corporate learners set their own schedules and choose the online training activities that suit their specific needs. Invest on a powerful responsive design LMS to create targeted online training content that can be easily accessed from any mobile device. In addition, conduct learner research to gauge their expectations and create relevant online training materials.
A skill-based approach in online training involves practical knowledge application with a real-world focus. Corporate learners have the chance to reflect on the information in context, which improves comprehension and knowledge retention. Skill-based online training also centers on corporate learners' individual needs. Therefore, the online training experience is more personal, relatable, and memorable.
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