There are a variety of questions that surround the building of a hybrid learning strategy. Will it integrate with our workforce culture? Will learners embrace the model? How does it differ to blended learning?
To build a hybrid learning strategy the organisation needs to understand the basics of hybrid learning, how it will affect employees and the benefits of same. Hybrid learning is an educational model in which attendees can complete their learning in a classroom setting, while others join via virtual means. Essentially, instructors are training both remote and in class learners simultaneously using tools like video conferencing hardware and software.
Hybrid learning is not to be mistaken for blended learning. They are two very distinct learning models. It is correct that both contain many of the same instructional elements. However, the hybrid model involves teaching both remote and in class learners at the same time, while blended learning incorporates both remote & classroom-based elements for each learner.
For hybrid learning to be successful, the elements of your hybrid course need to be tailored to the learning format, whether it be in-person or remote.
There are multiple benefits to consider when it comes to hybrid learning which include cost savings, time savings, and flexibility.
Cost Savings
When looking at our cost saving benefit one could argue that you are going to need to invest in learning management systems and other technology for even the capability of effective remote training. Although this is initially correct, it is a long-term cost saving solution. If you are unsure of how to measure your ROI from online learning please click HERE to view our previous article. Hybrid learning can mitigate costs in terms of accommodation, travel and trainers.
Time Savings & Flexibility
Save time for both your leaners and trainers by breaking up your training session, this allows for better retention and less re-training. Hybrid learning can also reduce travel time for employees. It can improve flexibility drastically as training courses can be taken at any time, anywhere, across all devices.
How can you implement hybrid training across your organisation?
The first thing you need to put in place is a clear strategy. You need to set clear goals for your program. For example, what do you wish to achieve by hybrid training? Set goals that are both long and short term , and clearly explain what is to be expected from your learners. By setting short term goals you will be more successful as you can take manageable steps. With the goal you set ensure you have the best assessment to match this. Do this before creating your content, work in reverse in terms of structure. In doing this you can measure all your training materials and documents accordingly, and will not miss any crucial elements for training.
The next step is to map out the goals you have set. You need to be confident in how learners will navigate through your course. You still need to facilitate all learning styles with audio, visual or kinesthetic.
Now that you've determined the goals of your course, and how your attendee and users will be assessed, you'll need to map out how they'll navigate the training session. This give consistency and clarity to all attendees. Create a visual tool for the class to follow, it should outline the course overview, content, timeline, assessments, training material, supplementary documentation and resources. This will make life easier in terms of mitigating any gaps within the training course.
Determine what best fits into your classroom element and online elements. Now that you understand the basis of your training course its time to plan and prepare your hybrid aspect. Classroom based learning is reserved for synchronous and group discussions, however the majority of personal assignments will be done virtually. When you are confident you are prepared for your hybrid learning training course complete a test run. Ensure the online elements and tools are updated, and working correctly, that the two environments integrate well. Invite another member of the training department or team to join the test. It will give you a better understanding of how your attendees and users will view the training and eliminate any grey areas. You are ready for your hybrid training course, good luck!
It can be difficult to measure the full effectiveness of learning programs. However, determining a clear strategy with goals before your program rolls out will give you an idea of how the model is functioning for you. Hybrid learning is progressive, and we believe it is the future. Giving employees the opportunity to learn in a diverse environment that best suits them is key in retention and productivity.
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