If a global lockdown taught us anything, it’s that people don’t have to be in the same room to be together. And that goes for training, too.
In-person training in a classroom environment is extremely effective, but it has its limitations. Since 2020, platforms like Zoom and Teams have enabled virtual learning to grow. These applications have completely transformed how training is delivered, bringing many benefits to businesses globally.
Let’s look at virtual learning in more detail.
The Many Benefits Of Virtual Training
Virtual classroom learning offers numerous benefits for both individuals and organisations, making it an increasingly popular learning and development tool. Here’s a breakdown of the key advantages.
Flexibility And Accessibility
Individuals can access training sessions from any location with an internet connection and at a time that suits them. This means learners can participate from the comfort of their own home, the office, or even on the go.
Cost-Effectiveness
Virtual training brings down operational costs for businesses by taking travel expenses, venue hire, printed materials and catering costs out of the mix. This cost-saving enables organisations to deliver high-quality training at a more affordable price point.
Increased Reach
Virtual training can connect learners and trainers from different cities, regions, or even countries. Because geography isn’t a barrier to participation, this increased reach expands access to a diverse range of knowledge and expertise.
Improved Engagement
Many virtual training platforms offer interactive elements like polls, quizzes and breakout rooms to enhance engagement. These features encourage peer communication and active learning and make sessions more dynamic.
Environmental Impact
Virtual training reduces the need for travel. Less commuting to training events means fewer carbon emissions, and this helps both organisations and individuals meet their sustainability goals.
The Challenges of Virtual Training
In addition to offering many benefits, virtual classroom training also presents some limitations that can impact the success and quality of learning. They are…
Technical Difficulties
Issues such as internet connectivity problems, software glitches and platform limitations can interrupt training sessions and make interactions difficult to navigate.
Engagement And Focus
Without the physical presence of the trainer, and with learners stationed in a range of potentially distracting environments, it may be hard for candidates to maintain focus. Trainers conducting virtual sessions must find interactive ways of keeping individuals engaged.
Reduced Social Interaction
Virtual training lacks the face-to-face encounters individuals would otherwise experience with in-person sessions. This impacts networking opportunities and limits relationship-building, which can feel less valuable for some individuals.
Technical Skills Requirements
Basic computer skills and familiarity with virtual platforms are necessary for anyone participating in virtual training sessions. Individuals who are unfamiliar with the technology may struggle to use the chosen platform effectively and this can negatively impact the learning.
Assessments Concerns
Conducting accurate assessments virtually can be difficult. Without proper evaluative protocol, ensuring fairness and accuracy can be a challenge. Some providers, like Envesca, offer online invigilated examinations so that candidates can gain a recognised qualification.
Tips for Getting The Most From Virtual Training
With the right approach, virtual training can be a productive, successful learning experience. Here are our top tips for individuals taking part.
Be Prepared
To make sure you can devote your focus to the session when it begins, review any course material that has been provided well in advance. Test your microphone and camera to avoid irritating tech issues, and set up a drink and snack station so that you won’t need to step out during the session.
Be Brave
Speaking up in a virtual classroom can feel daunting, but you’ll get more out of your experience if you join in with discussions. Most virtual platforms include a ‘raise hand’ feature, as well as a chat facility, that can support you if you’re feeling anxious.
Take Notes
Take notes in the same way as you would in a physical training session. This helps to cement the information and ensures you have reminders of your learning for later reference.
Minimise Distractions
Try to find a learning space that is quiet; a busy office or household can be distracting for everyone in the virtual classroom. If background noise is unavoidable, use headphones and virtual backgrounds to help minimise visual and auditory distractions.
Quiet Snacks
Learning remotely means that it’s possible to raid your biscuit tin, but beware of rustling packets and crunchy crisps… These can be heard over your microphone and are not only distracting but potentially extremely unprofessional.
Limit Interruptions
Turn off your phone, mute notifications or set your status to ‘Do Not Disturb’. Calls and emails can be difficult to ignore, especially when you’re sitting at your computer or smart device, and you must remain present and absorb key information.
Envesca's Approach To Virtual Training
Envesca offers a range of virtual training courses that are accredited by leading Awarding Organisations such as Highfield Qualifications and the Institute of Safety and Health (IOSH).
Trained specifically in delivering Zoom-based learning courses, our highly knowledgeable and experienced course deliverers keep candidates engaged through fun and interactive sessions, utilising learning tools like breakout rooms, interactive whiteboards, videos and Q&A segments.
Envesca also provides a 100% money-back guarantee, demonstrating our commitment to We are committed to customer satisfaction and gold-standard training,
Envesca offers a 100% money-back guarantee, highlighting our dedication to quality training and customer satisfaction. Explore Envesca’s available virtual courses here to experience professional training from anywhere.
Embrace The Future Of Virtual Learning
Virtual training is a transformative tool in the world of learning and development. Through well-designed and interactive courses, organisations can benefit from flexible, accessible and cost-effective high-quality learning.
With our expert trainers, engaging courses and robust customer support offering, Envesca stands out as a leader in providing high-quality virtual training solutions.
Looking to enhance your skills with flexible, accredited training? Discover Envesca’s virtual courses here and begin learning – from anywhere!