What Is an ILT? Advantages & Benefits of Instructor-Led Training
Highlights:
In the ever-evolving business landscape, organizations must explore various methodologies that ensure their workforce remains well-equipped in all fields, especially learning. One such approach that has stood the test of time is Instructor-Led Training. Today, we are going to open a window into the ILT, dissect its essence, and explore whether it's the right fit for your company. We'll also shed light on the numerous advantages and benefits of ILT. To complement ILT, we'll also discuss how a Learning Management System can enhance the overall training experience.
What Is an ILT?
Firstly, it is a conventional in-person education and training style in which an instructor leads sessions, conveys knowledge, and interacts with participants. Secondly, it is instrumental in settings necessitating in-person connection, fast response, and hands-on experience. Additionally, while it's one of the oldest training methods, it remains relevant, especially in specific scenarios.
Is ILT Right for My Company?
Whether ILT is right for your company depends on various factors, including your training objectives, the content's nature, and the workforce's preferences and needs. Here are some situations in which this might be a suitable choice:
Complex and Hands-On Skills: this type of learning is particularly effective for training that involves complex skills or hands-on tasks. For instance, technical skills, medical procedures, and manufacturing processes often benefit from the in-person guidance of a qualified instructor.
Interaction and Engagement: If your training content requires active interaction, engagement, and discussion among participants, instructor-led classroom training can facilitate meaningful in-person dialogues. It promotes spontaneous questions, debates, and group activities, which can be challenging to replicate online.
Compliance and Certification: Many industries require employees to meet specific compliance standards and certifications. In such cases, ILT solutions can provide a structured and accountable approach to ensuring participants meet these requirements.
Customization: Instructor-led training can be tailored to meet your company's and employees' needs. Instructors can adapt content, pacing, and examples to suit your organization's unique requirements.
Networking Opportunities: In an ILT course setting, employees can network with their peers, fostering community and collaboration lacking in purely online training.
It's worth noting that ILT might not be the ideal choice for every scenario. For instance, assembling everyone in one physical location can be challenging when you have a geographically dispersed workforce. Additionally, it may not be the most cost-effective solution for training that can be efficiently delivered through other means.
Benefits of Instructor-Led Training (ILT)
ILT training offers a range of benefits, which can significantly impact the quality of your training initiatives and contribute to the professional growth of your employees. Let's explore these advantages in more detail.
Personalized Learning
One of the standout advantages of instructor-led learning is the opportunity for personalized learning. Instructors can adapt the training content to the participant's specific needs and skill levels in ILT training courses. This level of customization ensures that employees get what they need, and it can be precious when dealing with a diverse group with varying levels of prior knowledge.
Through personalized learning, employees are likelier to remain engaged and feel that their time is well spent. This approach caters to individual learning styles and preferences, which can lead to a more effective and enjoyable ILT learning experience.
Immediate Feedback
In ILT, immediate feedback is a priceless asset. Participants can ask questions, seek clarification, and receive immediate responses from the instructor in instructor-led ILT training. This level of interaction fosters better understanding, quicker problem resolution, and the ability to address misconceptions in real time.
Additionally, instructors can gauge participants' comprehension and adapt their teaching approach accordingly. This ensures that no one is left behind, and the training remains effective for everyone, regardless of their starting point.
Hands-On Experience
Many skills and competencies are best acquired through hands-on experience. ILT training is well-suited to provide this kind of training. Whether it's the operation of complex machinery, software applications, or medical procedures, having an experienced instructor guide participants through practical exercises can be invaluable.
Hands-on experience allows participants to put theory into practice and gain confidence in their abilities. It's an effective way to bridge the gap between theory and real-world application in ILT training courses.
Low Fixed Costs
While ILT might have higher upfront costs regarding instructor fees, venue rentals, and materials, it often boasts lower fixed costs in the long run in ILT solutions. Unlike online training, which may require ongoing software and platform maintenance, ILT generally doesn't incur recurring expenses.
Moreover, when ILT training is conducted efficiently, it can lead to higher retention rates, reduced retraining needs, and a more cost-effective training solution.
Networking
In-person training sessions offer a unique opportunity for employees to network with their peers in instructor-led classroom training. Building relationships with colleagues from various departments or locations can foster a sense of community within the organization.
Networking is not limited to small talk during breaks; it can lead to valuable collaborations, idea-sharing, and problem-solving opportunities. These connections can extend beyond the training room and have a lasting impact on your organization.
How Can an LMS Facilitate ILT
While ILT offers many advantages, it must be complemented with modern tools and technologies to enhance the overall training experience. A Learning Management System can be a valuable ally. Here are two ways an LMS can facilitate ILT:
Blended Learning
Blended learning combines the best of both worlds: traditional ILT and modern online training. An LMS allows you to create a blended learning environment to integrate ILT sessions with digital resources seamlessly.
For instance, you can use the LMS to distribute pre-reading materials, quizzes, or surveys before the in-person training session in ILT solutions. This prepares participants and ensures they come to the session with some background knowledge, maximizing the value of face-to-face time.
After the ILT session, the LMS can host post-training resources, such as additional reading materials, videos, or discussion forums. This extended ILT learning experience keeps participants engaged and provides ongoing support.
Furthermore, an LMS enables tracking and assessment of the blended learning approach. You can measure the effectiveness of ILT training sessions, monitor participation in online resources, and collect feedback to improve the training program continually.
Webinar
Webinars are a popular tool for modern training, and they can be seamlessly integrated into an ILT program through an LMS. Webinars allow you to reach geographically dispersed employees, making ILT more accessible.
An LMS can schedule and host webinars, providing a platform for live online training sessions in instructor-led training ILT. This is particularly valuable when physical gatherings are not feasible.
Webinars also allow for interactive elements, such as Q&A sessions and polls, which mimic some of the engagement features of in-person Training in ILT training courses. Participants can still ask questions and interact with the trainer in real time.
Moreover, webinars can be recorded and stored within the LMS for future reference in ILT solutions. This ensures that employees who couldn't attend the live session can access the content at their convenience, thus increasing the reach and impact of your ILT training program.
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, Instructor-Led Training remains a valuable and practical approach to employee development, particularly for scenarios where in-person interaction, immediate feedback, and hands-on experience are essential. It's a customizable and engaging method with significant benefits, including personalized learning, low fixed costs, and networking opportunities.
To maximize the potential of ILT, consider integrating it with a Learning Management System. The LMS can support blended learning, combining in-person training with digital resources and facilitating webinars to reach a broader audience in ILT solutions. By harnessing the power of ILT and modern technology, you can create a comprehensive and dynamic training program that caters to your organization's unique needs.