The Advantages of an Interactive Training Strategy

Interactive training benefits

Let’s take a look at the specific benefits that are derived from interactive training:

• Real-time feedback. When employees are participating in a learning simulation, they are able to make many decisions and see the outcomes of those decisions immediately. They are able to assess and decide if the choice was a good one, or if they need to try another tactic. This process of trial and error is an invaluable learning tool. When a learner has to wait for a formal assessment at the end of an activity, some opportunities real-time learning has been lost.
• Bridge the gap between knowledge and action. There is a significant difference between hearing how something is done, seeing how it’s done, and actually performing the task yourself. Learning simulations take the knowledge that has been gained and transitions it into action. Being able to explore multiple actions, without the threat of negative consequences is a key factor in determining what approaches work best when faced with various work-place issues.
• Building teamwork. While it’s often overlooked, building relationships between co-workers is a crucial part of a successful business, as well as being an element that’s important to employees. A feeling of camaraderie is encouraged when workers see themselves working toward a common goal. Team-based interactive learning activities allow employees to form relationships as they problem-solve together. Working collaboratively with peers can make one see an issue from an angle they wouldn’t have thought of on their own, making for a richer learning experience.
• Engaging different learning styles. Everyone has a different learning style. Learning simulations can engage certain learners in ways that a traditional lecture-type scenario doesn’t. Interactive learning combined with other methods provides a well-rounded approach and provides the capability to reach more learners.
• Making mistakes without risk. Interactive training takes the apprehension out of the decision-making process because there aren’t any negative consequences. This is especially important for employees who work in the customer service industry or in sales. They can practice scenarios in which they have to deal with difficult customer issues and complaints, without the risk of losing a customer for the company. As they practice, they grow in the confidence that they can handle anything that comes up when they are in an actual situation.
• Learning simulations work. One of the aspects that make interactive training so effective is that it’s fun. Even corporate employees want to enjoy themselves while they’re learning. Being engaged with the learning process makes the experience more memorable. The fact that simulations are relevant to the employees’ actual job duties plays a large part in making the information stick.

The numerous advantages of learning simulations are well worth incorporating them as a regular component of any corporate training program.

Contact Designing Digitally, Inc. today to learn how they can create a customized learning simulation for your organization that will engage learners, retain employees, increase productivity, and add to the bottom line.