Deliver Powerful Training with Virtual Instructor-Led Training (VILT) – Tip #184

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There is no denying the power of instructor-led training (ILT). But, there are interesting findings from multiple studies showing that a range of companies such as the National EMS Academy and Deloitte, have transitioned or are now shifting from face-to-face ILT to virtual ILT (VILT) or implementing VILT through a hybrid training model.

According to the Association for Talent Development (ATD), less than half (49%) of all training in 2015 was through face-to-face live ILT. Compare that with traditional ILT accounting for 59% of all training in 2010.

A separate study found that 31% of learners “attend training in a virtual classroom setting” and “37% of companies’ training portfolios are being offered in virtual and hybrid delivery modalities.”

Why the Shift from Traditional ILT to Virtual Instructor-Led Training (VILT)?

Traditional ILT has two major disadvantages. They require much time and cost in comparison with VILT. With new and improved technologies, VILT has become the practical choice especially for organizations with learners in varied geographical locations.

How Virtual Instructor-Led Training (VILT) Can Benefit Your Organization

Virtual Instructor-Led Training (VILT) offers many benefits. Here are some of them.

VILT’s modular design caters to busy learners. Many VILT programs come in the form of short training content. They don’t take up too much time and can be consumed independently or in combination with other courses.
VILT allows “whenever, wherever” training and learning. Without the limitations of a  physical environment or even time constraints, VILT is a convenient way to train and learn. Learners can pick and learn training content whenever and wherever they like.
VILT reduces cost. Without the need for travel and lodging, organizations and presenters can both reduce or eliminate these training expenses.
VILT increases training scalability. In typical classroom settings, the more students you have, the more expensive in terms of materials and space it gets. In VILT, trainers can train many learners without any of these worries, making VILT a scalable and cost-effective model.
VILT encourages diverse learners. Because it isn’t limited in time and space, VILT opens a wider door for learners of varied backgrounds and culture to learn together and collaborate.

Conclusion

Instructor-led training isn’t going away anytime soon. However, the way it’s being delivered has been shifting from face-to-face/in-person to virtual. VILT can be advantageous for companies looking to reduce cost, scale their training model, and/or accommodate diverse learners.

References

Association for Talent Development (ATD). ATD Releases 2016 State of the Industry Report. December 8, 2016
MicroTek and Training Industry, Inc. The Next Generation Classroom: Virtual/Hybrid Instructor-Led Training. February 17, 2016
Chief Learning Officer. Virtual Instructor-Led Training: The Best of Both Worlds. February 8, 2013

Ray Jimenez, PhD
Vignettes Learning
“Helping Learners Learn Their Way”