At a recent meeting of the ‘Deutsche Fortbildungs-Bundesliga’ (DFB), we had an in-depth discussion about the best methods for training new employees. Julian N., our passionate trainer, took the floor to talk about the benefits of training tools as part of an LMS. Initially sceptical, but soon enthusiastic, colleagues listened to Julian explain the benefits of these tools.
1. WHAT ARE TRAINING TOOLS?
Definition and explanation of training tools
“Think of training tools like the various exercises in football training,” Julian began. “These tools are essential tools that support and enhance the learning process. They can be physical devices like textbooks and flashcards or digital applications like quiz apps and interactive videos.” He compared them to the difference between an old football and the modern high-tech balls at the European Championships. “Both are useful, but the modern tools offer more possibilities and precision.”
Difference between traditional and digital training tools
“Traditional training tools are like traditional training sessions – proven and effective. Digital training tools, on the other hand, use technology to make learning more flexible, interactive and scalable. They are like modern training methods with video analyses and digital tactic boards,” Julian continued, while his assistant Sandro W. nodded in agreement.
2. IMPORTANCE OF TRAINING TOOLS IN AN LMS
Integration of training tools in digital LMS
“An LMS is like a playing field,” Julian continued. “It's a platform that facilitates the delivery, management and tracking of educational programmes. By integrating training tools into an LMS, we create a comprehensive and effective learning environment. It's like a well-organised training session where each player knows exactly what to do and where he or she still has gaps.” The integration makes it possible to manage all learning materials and activities centrally and optimise the learning process. “Of course, it all depends on the quality of the LMS. By choosing the right platform, companies decide on the quality of the pitch. Put simply: does the company need a simple sports pitch to fulfil its requirements or are the requirements so high that only a high-quality, perfectly mown and irrigated pitch is an option?”
3. KEY FUNCTIONS AND TYPES OF TRAINING TOOLS
Online employee development: E-learning courses and modules
“E-learning courses and modules are like training plans,” explained Julian. “They enable the creation and management of DIGITAL EMPLOYEE TRAINING courses that are available at any time. These courses can include interactive elements, videos and quizzes to make learning engaging and effective.”
Online employee training: Webinars and virtual classrooms
“Webinars and virtual classrooms provide the opportunity for real-time training and interaction,” Julian continued. “It's like a live coaching event where players can ask questions and interact directly with the coach and other team members.”
Interactive content
“Interactive content such as videos, simulations, quizzes and gamification elements make learning dynamic and engaging,” said Julian. “It's like an interactive training game that motivates players and helps them better understand and apply what they've learnt.”
Mobile Learning-Apps
“Mobile learning apps provide access to training content from mobile devices,” explained Julian. “It's like an app that allows players to have their training plans and analyses with them wherever they are and at any time of day.”
Social Learning Tools
“Social learning tools such as forums, chats, group work and social networks promote dialogue and collaboration,” said Julian. “It's like a constructive team meeting where everyone can contribute their ideas and the team can learn from each other.”
Analytics and evaluation tools
“Analytics and assessment tools are crucial for tracking learning progress and measuring the success of E-LEARNING FOR COMPANIES,” explained Julian. “Just like a performance analysis, it shows us where we are and what we can improve.”
4. ADVANTAGES OF USING TRAINING TOOLS IN COMPANIES
Flexibility and accessibility
“Training tools make learning possible regardless of time and place,” said Julian. “It's like the flexible training of the national team, which can adapt to different match schedules and training camps. No matter whether it's Blankenhain, Herzogenaurach or Campo-Bahia – as long as the right training tools, our goals, balls and cones, are available, learning is possible anywhere.”
Personalisation
“The customisation of learning content to individual needs is a major advantage of digital training tools,” Julian continued. “It's like a customised training plan for each player that addresses their specific strengths and weaknesses. In the end, everyone has the same qualification. One learner has spent more time in learning module X and another person has been automatically supported for longer in learning module Y. Imagine that! Based on the way I learn and the time I need for which questions or modules, my next learning step is already being formed in the background. Crazy, isn't it?”
Cost saving
“By reducing travelling and training costs, companies can make significant savings,” explained Julian. “This equates to cost-efficient preparation for a major tournament, where all resources are optimally prepared regardless of their location and the time of day.”
Increasing employee loyalty and motivation
“Interactive and engaging learning methods increase employee motivation and satisfaction,” said Julian. “It's like motivational training that gets players excited and makes them give their best.”
5. CHOOSING THE RIGHT TRAINING TOOLS FOR COMPANIES
“When choosing the right training tools, we should consider various criteria,” explained Julian. “Ease of use, adaptability, integration, cost, and support are crucial. Like naming a squad for a major tournament, every element has to be right and contribute to the team’s success.
Compliance training and leadership development, for example, are two important areas of application for training tools,” said Julian. “While compliance training ensures that all employees know and follow the necessary regulations and guidelines, training tools for leadership development support the development of future leaders through targeted training programmes.”
6. IMPLEMENTATION
“The implementation of training tools involves several steps,” explained Julian. “Needs analysis, selection process, implementation, user training and continuous optimisation. A structured approach ensures that the tools are used effectively and deliver the desired benefits - like a well-planned training camp.”
Julian ended his presentation with these words. His colleagues’ initial scepticism had vanished, and they were enthusiastic about the possibilities offered by training tools. Julian had managed to convince the team – and the company was ready to take employee training to the next level.
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