eLearning is the delivery of training materials through electronic and digital resources. eLearning programs are typically developed for a desktop, mobile device, or tablet and range between 5-20 minutes long per module.
It’s important to consider the pros and cons that come with the use of eLearning before deciding whether or not it’s the right fit for your organization’s training.
Pros of eLearning:
- Cost-effective
- Time efficient
- Facilitated from anywhere
- Reduces the cost of travel and time
Cons of eLearning:
- Technology troubleshooting
- Learners may feel isolated
- Modules are self-paced
In 2017, 77% of organizations in the U.S. used eLearning. By 2020, that number increased to 98% of organizations planning to incorporate eLearning into their training program.
At Roundtable Learning, we help organizations plan, develop, and implement custom training programs. As the popularity of eLearning continues to grow, we’re here to help your organization make informed decisions about eLearning’s role in your training program.
In this article, we’ll explain what eLearning is, uncover the different training topics it can be used for, and dive into the advantages and disadvantages that come with its use.
What Is eLearning?
eLearning is the delivery of training materials through electronic and digital resources. eLearning programs are typically developed for a desktop, mobile device, or tablet and range between 5-20 minutes long per module.
eLearning modules are either custom or off-the-shelf. Custom-built courses are more tailored to an organization’s specific learning objectives and industry, while off-the-shelf eLearning is more general and applicable to a wide range of organizations.
Read More: How to Develop an eLearning Program for Your Company
How Is eLearning Used For Workplace Training?
eLearning can be used to support employees throughout every stage of the employee lifecycle. From onboarding to technical and leadership training, eLearning is an effective way to teach employees information about their organization, critical job functions, soft skills, and more.
Although eLearning activities can be used across practically any topic, it’s most effective when used as part of a fully comprehensive blended learning program. As part of a blended learning program, eLearning allows learners to experience higher levels of convenience, engagement, and personalization. Now, let’s dive into the pros and cons that come with an eLearning program.
Read More: How to Develop a Blended Learning Training Program
Advantages Of eLearning
Cost-Effective
eLearning is a one time cost that can be utilized over and over again. In addition, edits and content changes can be directly made to a custom eLearning program, which reduces potential costs for creating an entirely new program.
eLearning typically costs between $200 and $900 for every minute of completed eLearning, but depends on a multitude of factors from which eLearning level you choose to the level of customization your program has.
Time Efficient
eLearning modules are always accessible. Learners can complete their eLearning modules whenever it’s most convenient for them, whether it’s before or after work, in between meetings, or after hours.
Facilitated From Anywhere
eLearning can be facilitated anywhere. Regardless of a learner’s location, they can complete the same eLearning activity that their fellow learners complete. This avoids requiring learners to be together in the same location and adds a level of convenience to the learning experience.
Reduces The Cost Of Travel And Time
With eLearning, learners don’t need to worry about traveling to a new location or covering associated costs. This saves time and money for everyone involved, along with eliminating the need for finding a common time that works for everyone.
Disadvantages Of eLearning
Technology Troubleshooting
As with any technology, it’s expected to encounter technological issues with eLearning. From connectivity issues to learners forgetting their login information, there may be technological issues when implementing and completing an eLearning activity.
Solution — Organizations should plan for technology issues by preparing learners ahead of time as much as they can. Learners should make sure their login information is successful and ensure that their internet connection is stable. Additionally, organizations should practice running through the program and resolve any glitches or other technical issues that arise before delivering the program to learners.
Read More: Big 4 Virtual Learning Constraints and How To Conquer Them
Learners May Feel Isolated
Since eLearning can be completed remotely, learners may fall into a feeling of isolation from their workplace and peers. Some learners prefer in-person methods of training, such as an ILT, where they can collaborate with others through group discussions and instant feedback.
With eLearning, this sort of collaboration doesn’t occur as it’s a very individualized learning method.
Solution — To combat this, organizations can utilize eLearning as pre- and post-work activities in a blended approach. This reinforces learning by surrounding the main learning activity with eLearning modules that review key concepts and ideas, while also bringing learners together through different collaborative activities.
Read More: ILT vs. VILT vs. eLearning vs. Video Learning: Traditional or Digital Learning
Modules Are Self-Paced
Self-paced learning can be seen as both an advantage and disadvantage. On the disadvantage side, there isn’t a facilitator present to assign learning content and hold learners accountable. This may cause learners to miss deadlines or feel unmotivated to complete their activities.
On the advantage side, some learners may prefer to hold themselves accountable and complete their eLearning on their own time.
Solution — Add gamification and rewards to ensure content is engaging. With gamification, learners will be more engaged with the content and feel more motivated to complete the activity to earn a reward, such as a badge, certificate, or recognition.
Do The Pros Of eLearning Outweigh The Cons?
We’ve covered all that eLearning has to offer your organization’s training program, from reducing costs and providing remote access to potential feelings of isolation. We hope that moving forward, your organization feels more confident when deciding if eLearning is the right fit for your organization’s training needs.
Ready to start designing your custom eLearning program? Schedule a meeting with one of our experts today or check out more of our pros and cons articles for different training modalities, including VR, AR, and ILT.