Recently there’s been a rise in companies using online and digital learning. In turn this has led to an increase in the number of eLearning myths out there.
We want to put some of those misconceptions to bed and any doubts you may have at ease. We will now break down four of the main myths you’ve probably heard before…
eLearning is out of date as a learning format
Some professionals may remember the days of Flash and developers of that era creating eLearning courses using this technology. These type of courses are no longer fit for purpose leaving many businesses feeling they will never buy an eLearning course again.
However, all eLearning courses are now developed in a platform or technology which is more future proof. This allows source files to be easily exchanged and updated by a competent developer.
This growth in technology has also made it quicker for developers create a course too.
It’s hard to measure interaction
In classroom training the instructor can see whether the learners are engaged and interacting equality and to their fullest. Some may say that this is something you miss using eLearning in its place.
However, measuring interaction is still possible when you move online through tracking. Most eLearning will be split into modules, they’ll be mini knowledge tests and quizzes throughout.
These modules and tests will establish something that can be tracked by the learning platform. If none of the tracking points have been completed, then your learner hasn’t been interacting with it. This could be a sign they are trying to skip along to final quiz point. A manager can then be informed and follow this up with the learner.
In fact, it makes measuring interactions easier. Especially for larger audience and allows the learner to learn at their own pace, meaning they’re likely to engage more.
At Olano, we are able to build in non linear pathways. We can adjust the content based on the user’s role or their knowledge gathered from mid-point assessments. This means different content can be delivered depending on the role or experience.
eLearning is expensive
One of the common eLearning myths is that it is expensive. With there being the expectation of having to purchase the technology and content for the courses.
However, moving to eLearning could provide completely the opposite leading to money saved.
No need to pay for an instructor, a classroom, travel, food, or other associated costs. Plus, the participants spend less time away from their day-job.
Courses are generally created with a single upfront development cost, if bespoke. However, if the content is to be used widely by many businesses, a cost per user
might be another option.
It moves through content too quickly
Without there being an instructor many will think there’s no time to take a break or ask a question. Instead the learner feels rushed through to complete it.
On the contrary eLearning adapts better to individuals’ learning paces.
There is no timescale to view a module or piece of information. Many eLearning courses even give the learner the opportunity to review past modules and refresh their knowledge. Or stop at any point to return later.
So, it actually allows content to move with the learner.
eLearning is boring
Learners thinking this most likely have had a negative experience with a poorly designed course in the past.
eLearning can be made fun for any type of learning if it’s designed correctly to your audience. One way is by bringing in interactive elements; video, animation, quizzes, and mini exercises and games that keep the user engaged.
It is particularly good to break down complex material into manageable chunks of information.
There’s no interaction between learners or with instructors
Just because the learner will be at their computer and potentially in a remote location doesn’t stop interaction.
You can interact through instant messaging via their work system, text message, phone call or a pre-planned study groups. There’s always a way to discuss progress or get further help and information when required.
eLearning is complicated
When technology is involved, there will be companies that assume this leads to complication.
The truth is all these eLearning myths are exactly that, myths. There just needs to be simple instructions, a clear layout, and the aims and objectives laid out to the learner.
A well thought out and well-designed eLearning course is all you need!
