10 Critical Differences Between In-house Training Online Learning

In-person training allows for more hands-on practice.

Working in person with instructors and other learners allows for more engagement. Face-to-face communication usually delivers more clarity and understanding than texting or email communication. Even live chats and other forms of internet engagement cannot provide the same level of personal interaction. The Princeton Review lists various advantages of hands-on learning. Although learning tools have evolved significantly in recent years, many vocations still require at least some in-person training. Several medical vocations, such as nursing, would necessitate on-the-job training. Technical fields, such as automotive or electrical jobs, may also necessitate additional hands-on instruction.

Online Training Provides More Flexibility

Taking lessons online allows flexibility in a variety of ways that traditional learning techniques do not. Online training is frequently a fantastic alternative for persons who work remotely or have responsibilities that make attending in-person seminars challenging. Even if the course is relatively structured, the employee can complete the task within their time range. For example, if one component of a course is due each week, the employee can do the work at any time throughout the prior week. An individual can log on at any time of day or night, from any location, to do their work.

In-person training enables multiple employees to learn at the same time.

Classroom/in-person education keeps all employees learning on track. In-person training is a better fit for this case if more than one individual from the same firm wishes to take and complete a course at the same time.

While numerous people can learn at the same time online, it might be difficult to supervise several people independently watching videos, doing daily chores, and so on. In-person training is often more structured and organized.

Online training offers a wider range of program options.

Throughout the year, there are sometimes only a limited number of seminars accessible for various firms to attend. Individuals can frequently enroll in an online course or training program at their leisure. They do not have to be concerned about where or when the training will take place.

Online learning makes classes and training programs available all year. Employees must be able to attend certain in-person courses/training that are often only available in select places across the country. When taking online courses, however, it makes no difference where the training takes place or where your employee lives or works. Remote employees that are spread geographically can nonetheless receive the same training.

In-person training allows for more face-to-face interaction.

Students in a classroom context can connect in real-time. In-person training allows for more group activities and participatory projects. Individuals who discover that they learn more when they work with others will most likely want to enroll in as many traditional classes as possible.

Online education is frequently less expensive.

In recent years, almost all sorts of education and training have become increasingly expensive. Given the different costs of leadership training, it is critical to recognize that not all training is made equal. Online training is one of the most cost-effective types of training available. Online training can help you save money in a variety of ways.

Transportation costs – When driving to a conference or training, gas and car wear and tear can pile up. If a person does not have access to a vehicle, they may also spend money on a bus pass.

Face-to-face engagement might also provide greater networking opportunities. 

Chat rooms and other forms of online interaction are useful, but they are not the same as a handshake or an in-person chat. Everyone absorbs information differently, so consider how your staff prefers to learn.

Housing costs can be too expensive if the person is required to stay in a specific city to complete the course or certification. Going out of town for a few days for a seminar or conference can sometimes result in high hotel costs.

Course Fees – Even actual classes and training can be pricey. This is because maintaining facilities, parking lots, and employees for on-site instruction is often more expensive than running an online program.

Distractions 

Distractions are inevitable no matter which approach you choose. In-person distractions such as private talks, the jokester in the back, the expert in the front who demands all the attention, and the person with endless questions can be found during live training sessions. It’s simple to get distracted while exercising online by incoming calls, and emails, or if you’re at home, the laundry, or the TV.

Online Training Has a Wider Range of Programs

Due to dates, commitments, locations, etc., employees will only be able to attend a certain number of seminars during the year. Employees will be able to take part in online courses and training programs at their convenience via online training. Since online training courses are offered all year round, worrying about where or when to attend training is no longer necessary. Where your workers live and work is irrelevant when they are enrolled in an online course. The same training will still be available to those who are spread out geographically.

Is it better to get training in person or online?

Both in-person training and online learning have advantages and disadvantages. Before making a decision that will affect a person’s training and, eventually, career, it is critical to carefully weigh the benefits and cons. Your company must decide what works best for their employees’ schedules, learning demands, and overall financial condition.

If you have a large geographically dispersed staff or are seeking the most cost-effective training option, online learning may be the ideal fit for your firm. If online learning sounds like the ideal match for you as a business owner, and you’d like to assist your leaders in better support and engagement with their staff, A Better Leader would be delighted to assist. Look no further if your workplace has suffered with morale, trust, and even motivating remote teams. Begin today with ongoing leadership training that results in engaged staff.