Online Training Simulations Developing for Today’s Learners

Designing Digitally

01/15/2018

Online Training simulations-designingdigitally

Training simulations are specialized, interactive programs that help employees practice certain activities in a secure, virtual environment. Millennials, who make up a major percentage of the workforce, prefer learning via these online training simulations. Simulations can be used for a variety of training like compliance, sales, and software tutorials.

Millennials were born and raised in the digital era. So, they are comfortable with online training platforms. Also, they do not settle for anything that is not immersive and interactive. Keeping them hooked to simulated learning can be a challenge.

Here are six must-have components for every training simulation.

#1: Personalized training path

Today’s employees never let go of any opportunity to develop skills and explore ideas. They are focused on achieving their professional goals and, when possible, exceeding them. But not all learners require the same skills. Each has their own strengths and weaknesses. To keep the millennial learners interested, trainers need to create personalized learning plans with tailor-made goals. The goals should be specific to each job role. A seller may not be interested in the skills that a coder or accountant may need. L&D professionals should conduct a training need analysis to design different learning paths. One-size-fits-all courses will not yield productive results.

#2: Multi-platform delivery

Modern learners do not like to be confined in a single place. They want to be able to access training from wherever they wish to. Make your simulations responsive. Employees should be able to access it on multiple devices – a laptop computer, smartphone, and tablet. And, the user experience should be equally robust, regardless of the device they use.

#3: Clear learning goals

The millennial learners are hard-pressed for time. So, they are adept to multitasking. They do not like wasting time on learning simulations that do not add any value to them. You need to specify the learning goals clearly at the beginning of the simulation. You should also keep repeating these goals periodically during the course.

At the end of it, the learners are interested in knowing how the business simulation will enhance their productivity. They need to be sure about how the skills learned will help them advance in their workplace. If your simulations can address this need, then they are bound to be successful.

#4: Short and simple

Most learners do not have a long attention span. They are also quite busy. It may not be possible for them to sit through a 40-minute training simulation at one go. To keep them engaged, make sure your simulated training is short and simple. Opt for small nuggets with focused objectives. That way the learners will be able to complete it in their spare time.

Keep the simulations simple and realistic. If you complicate it, the learners may leave it midway. So, make sure that you have researched your place of work and your learners’ work profiles before designing the simulation. The more it emulates the real-life workplace, the better your employees will relate to it.

#5: Ongoing feedback in branching scenarios

The technologically-advanced workforce loves branching scenarios and other game mechanics. Branching scenarios allow them to apply and test what they have learned during the simulation. They can practice their skills in a controlled environment.

Top that with personalized feedback. Learners look for feedback and guidance frequently. They value constructive criticism and use it to improve themselves. So, make sure that you provide feedback throughout the business simulation. That way, your learners are aware of their strengths and weaknesses. You may want to delay providing feedback in some instances in order to provide learners the time to reflect on their actions, but you cannot delete it completely.

#6: Clear directions

Never assume that the learners will know how to proceed with the training simulations. Some may know, others may not. Nonetheless, if you want them to have a smooth user experience, give them clear directions at each stage. Tell them what comes next and what is the expectation from them. Reiterate the learning objectives periodically, include support links, and keep the navigation simple. They should not be expected to spend too much time on figuring out where to go next.

At Designing Digitally, Inc. our realistic Training Simulations are the perfect way to teach skills and procedures that are dangerous or costly to perform. Learners can practice in a safe environment and gain confidence without the fear of substantial consequences.

Get in touch with our experts who can create simulated training solutions specific to your requirements.