7 Corporate eLearning Mistakes to Avoid

1. Converting Conventional Training to eLearning

The structure and methods of eLearning are a major departure from the conventional training methods primarily used by businesses. The manner in which instructions are provided and resources are shared is different from a classroom setting. The eLearning technology involved is significantly superior. For instance, if you have been relying on traditional lectures and training sessions, they won’t suit eLearning. For effective eLearning implementation, you need to create a new system.

Converting your existing infrastructure will not produce the desired results. This is because the structure required for eLearning is different, with a greater reliance on technology and digital mediums. The content is delivered digitally as well, rather than in a classroom-lecture setting.

2. Unclear Objectives and Goals

Implementation of eLearning, or any new training method for that matter, requires clear objectives and goals. The content has to target the audience you are addressing. Moreover, the resources, materials, and instructions you provide should adhere to the objectives and goals you wish to achieve through eLearning. For instance, if the focus is on teaching a new skill, the goals and vision should reflect the end objective. Unclear objectives and goals will make employees apprehensive about adapting the learning method.

Conducting comprehensive needs analysis will help you to identify the goals that need to be accomplished through training.  These goals will then be incorporated into the eLearning which results in the desired outcomes being achieved.

3. Content Overload

Just as you do not want employees spending the best part of their working day away from their workstations attending traditional classroom lectures, you also do not want them to have to spend an inordinate amount of time on eLearning activities. For this reason, the content designed for the eLearning program should be specific and to the point. Keep things concise, so the material is easier to grasp and retain for the audience.

4. Lack of Performance Evaluation

Introducing an eLearning. program isn’t enough. You have to constantly evaluate whether or not your employees are actually learning.  Training is the main purpose of introducing eLearning in the workplace. If your employees are unable to retain and apply what they are learning, you won’t derive any value from your eLearning modules. Assessments can take the form of pre and post-tests, observation, simulations, improved productivity and performance evaluations.

5. Reliance on Generic Courses

There is no dearth of eLearning courses. A simple Google search will lead you to a treasure trove of eLearning courses that you can simply implement. However, this is not the best way to go. You need to customize the course according to your organization’s specific goals. This is why planning is so important. The best option is to opt for customization. The course will designed in according with the needs of your particular audience. Appropriate planning will you get the results you desire.

6. No Feedback or Interactivity

Constant feedback and interactivity are important components of eLearning courses. Your employees should be able to post queries and receive answers without delay. They should have access to their instructors as needed and when required. Also, you should include interactive features in the course, such as games, that add to the level of engagement for your employees and also enable them to evaluate their performance on their own.

7. No Improvement

Last, but not the least, some companies introduce eLearning courses and then forget about them. The courses are there, available for employees to access, but they remain in the same state as they were when first introduced. Over time, you have to keep improving your eLearning program, by updating the courses or introducing new materials and resources. The needs of your organization will change over time and the eLearning component should evolve continuously as well, so new employees can benefit from it.

In addition, if there are any mistakes or shortcomings in the course itself or in the implementation method that you choose, it is important to correct them right away. Otherwise, the effectiveness of the course is compromised and your employees won’t benefit from the training. Glitches and shortcomings will also result in decreased employee engagement with the eLearning.

These are 7 mistakes that you need to avoid when introducing corporate eLearning. Keep in mind that even a small error on your part can reduce the effectiveness of the eLearning course and you will not achieve the return on investment that you were seeking.

Designing Digitally Inc. is a well-known and experienced provider of customized eLearning.  Contact them today to avoid these common 7 mistakes and instead, offer your employees valuable, job specific training to increase productivity, employee engagement, and profitability.