3 theorems on virtual classroom training that are not correctVirtual classroom training is a form of online learning. Over the past few months I have heard a number of theorems aimed in particular at setting up virtual classroom training. Below I give 3 of those theorems again and refute them. More so because I notice that these theorems are more pronounced out of ignorance than with knowledge of things. Consider the difference between E-learning and virtual classroom. How many times I have heard that this would be the same…..

1. Online training is impersonal

E-learning is reasonably static and impersonal. You do not have live contact with the trainer or other participants. It is absorbing knowledge. And whether you have achieved the learning goal is to measure it, but do you get it too? A virtual classroom, if properly set up and implemented, is interactive and dynamic and guarantees the learning goal. In order to provide a personal experience, it is a requirement that the trainer has the right qualities. In a company in which virtual learning is initiated, there is often some resistance from the (traditional) trainers. Take them in a one-to-one virtual session and show the benefits. Then that resistance is often quickly gone and the trainer can also deliver the quality. So that it becomes a personal experience for the participant.

2. You must be a computer illiterate

A virtual classroom is a new way of working for many. In all age groups. Fortunately, most virtual classroom programs are easy to use and do not require deep knowledge of PCs. And when it is done well, let the participants first get acquainted with the tool. Take them in some sort of try-out or pilot. Once done you know for the rest of your life how simple it works. And if there are any problems with e.g. login? Then there is the virtual classroom moderator. In companies that understand how important that is, that is naturally secured.

3. As a traditional trainer you can start training a virtual

In the earlier blog “How do you measure engagement?” I indicated that compared to a classroom training it is certainly a different experience if you are going to give a virtual classroom training. You cannot see participants live directly and what they are doing. And that the forms of work must not be forgotten. But you have a possibility to monitor if participants are (still) hooked up. This requires other didactic skills and ways of the virtual classroom trainer.

 So you really need someone who has the skills and knowledge to train virtual and possibly can support; someone who has had a training for it. A virtual classroom trainer, moderator, designer or producer. Or maybe you would like to follow a training course for example, virtual classroom trainer or virtual classroom moderator.

Do you want to set up and run a virtual classroom training, but don’t know how or where to start? Or do you want to hire a moderator?  

Stilios helps and takes care of you! Please feel free to contact us. Call or mail if you want to know more or if you want to experience a one-on-one demo of a virtual classroom. Free of course!