Blended Learning - Is It The Right Move For You?

Most modern organisations invest in corporate training programs. But in the age of all pervasive technology, BYOD, next generation cloud computing, is it enough to leave training programs behind in the classroom? Do you need to revamp your learning program and implement strategies that can enhance reach, appeal and impact? In short, should your learning program move to a “Blended Learning” mode?

Before we discuss if moving to a blended learning format is the right decision, we need to understand what it involves. Typically, blended learning involves a combination of powerful content, effective teaching methodologies, and dissemination channels, enabled by an efficient Learning Management System. By this, we mean that a blended learning strategy goes beyond traditional classroom training methodologies to present a comprehensive inclusive strategy that incorporates classroom training with multiple training touch points ranging from face to face instructor led sessions to games, to eLearning modules and even social media enabled learning programs.

To decide if blended learning is really the right move for your organisation, you have to first assess your existing training strategies. Ask yourself the following questions:

1. Do the existing strategies really fulfill the organisation’s learning objectives?
2. Are employees learning optimally? Is there continuous learning?
3. Do the learning programs benefit a geographically diverse workforce? Is there room for flexibility? Does it enable anywhere anytime learning?
4. Do the training touch points appeal to the sensibilities of the Generation C workforce? Are they modern, interactive and aligned with the social media?

If the answers to one or more of the questions above are ‘no’, then it is time to consider blended learning strategies. The reason is simple – to help employees excel in their roles, the organisation must provide the fuel: focused, continuous learning programs. But the buck doesn't stop here. Delivering this content effectively is equally important. This is where new age blended learning helps.

‍The Blended Learning Mix

Learning is effective if the Learning and Development function can regularly align its outcomes with the larger organization goals. Blended learning is the next step to take for improving organisation performance. Blended learning can help create a vibrant learning environment. With technology as the backbone and a range of channels to disseminate the content, employees can truly experience quality and flexibility in learning.‍

Does your Learning Management Solution support Blended Learning strategies?