Designing Digitally
07/12/2018
Workplaces are becoming more complex with each passing day. There are new tools, databases, and applications constantly added to the system. Employees need to know how to efficiently use these resources, therefore training is critical. One effective way to reduce learning time and increase knowledge retention is to create learning simulations. These interactive experiences allow learners to try new skills in a risk-free environment.
Let’s look at six benefits training simulations offer your organization.
Online learning modules and classroom training are great delivery formats for certain topics. However, there are many situations where the learner needs hands-on practice. An excellent solution is a learning simulation that provides real-life experience in a virtual environment. The experiential learning format provides learners with a better knowledge and understanding of the subject than simply reading about it or watching someone else do it.
Learning simulations offer immediate feedback to the learners based on their performance. This helps the learners address their mistakes and improve their strengths. If you offer constructive criticism to your employees immediately, the chances of them repeating the same error decrease. Improper behavior is not committed to long-term memory.
Traditional classroom training requires you or a facilitator to be physically present in the classroom. Online simulations, on the other hand, have no such restrictions. Your employees can access them from anywhere, such as a client site, subway, or their living room. They only need a compatible device, and depending on how the simulation is hosted, possibly an internet connection. There is no time-zone restriction either. Fast learners can decide their own pace. They need not wait for the slowest learner to finish before they can move ahead.
Simulations can break away from a predictable, boring learning format. You can embed fun elements and surprises! If you want learners to really get hooked, include real-life scenarios and characters. A storyline could help them empathize with the plot. Include situations that your employees may be facing in their respective job role. If they identify with what is happening on the screen, they remain engaged. When they encounter a similar situation at work, they will recall the knowledge they gained during the simulation.
Mistakes are one of the best teachers. They help you learn things that you remember for a long time. But, you may not have the luxury of committing mistakes in your organization and then learning from it. For all you know, one mistake may cost you your job. But, you need the practice to be able to do your job better and without mistakes. How do you resolve this issue? Simulations are the best solution to this problem. Here, your employees can make all kinds of mistakes and learn from them. There is no real-world damage involved. They can practice as many times they wish to in order to gain confidence. Once they are confident of their skills, they will make fewer or even no mistakes in their job role.
Simulations are online training. That means you do not have to set aside a budget for travel and accommodations for your employees and the instructor. You do not have to book a venue, rent training equipment, or print participant workbooks. Your employees do not need to take out time from their regular work to attend training. Simulations do require an initial investment. But, they can be reused for months or even years, so the long-term savings can be incredible compared to classroom training or seminars. Plus, allowing employees to complete the simulation when it is convenient for their schedule is much more efficient, which also saves the company money in labor hours.
Like most learning methods, simulations can be used as part of a blended learning program. They yield the best results when used with other formats like quizzes, coaching sessions, webinars, etc. At Designing Digitally, our custom training simulations empower your workforce to practice in virtual environments, allowing the audience to ‘learn by doing’ anytime, anywhere they need.
Get in touch with our team today to talk more about simulated learning for your company.
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