e-learning benefits The corporate world too!
Today, the concept of eLearning is no longer alien. More and more educational institutions and companies are adopting the trend of online learning management systems (LMS). Considering the pace of adoption of eLearning technology, the eLearning market will reach $400 billion by 2026.
The trend to educate through eLearning courses is a hot topic! What makes it even more interesting is the transformation it has gone through. Initially, the e-learning environment was about slides and PDFs, but today it has evolved. Now things like different e-learning tools, video content, webinars and much more are available for learners. But do you know that using an eLearning platform also benefits different businesses?
Achieving business goals, introducing new work methodologies, upgrading skills, etc. can be achieved through corporate e-learning for businesses. Read on to find out the potential benefits of eLearning enjoyed by businesses using eLearning applications and the top eLearning trends.
5 Types of Online Learning Platforms
That progress is not possible without change is a quote that everyone will agree with. The new normal now includes embracing major technological advances, and e-learning for businesses is one of them. Today, there are different types of e-learning platforms available in the market. Each online learning platform has different features. Subscribing to a platform means gaining paid access to a wide range of individual courses, professional certificates and other online higher education programs. Let’s dive a little deeper to understand the different types of eLearning platforms and their benefits.
1. Learning Management System
LBSs are used for the management and delivery of all online learning programmes. This usually includes course creation, management tools, etc.
2. Virtual Classroom Software
Integrated with the best online learning tools for video conferencing and whiteboards, virtual classroom software is a vital e-learning platform. It offers ample virtual space to host virtual classes.
3. Collaborative learning platforms
Abbreviated as CLP, collaborative platforms are those used to facilitate learners. They act as a virtual classroom where learners can ask questions and find solutions. Although CLPs are not virtual classrooms, they provide users with related features, such as creating groups for chatting.
4. Social learning platforms
Social learning platforms, as the name suggests, are social platforms that facilitate learning through blogs, discussion forums, videos, and user-generated content.
5. Content Management System
Content Management Systems (CMSs) do not require a special introduction. Most people use or have experience using a CMS for creating and managing digital learning content. A CMS can be integrated with other learning platforms.
Choosing the right online learning platform becomes easier when the approach to delivering the learning content, interaction level and budget are crystal clear. This paves a smooth way to access the benefits of e-learning platforms for a business.
Benefits of an online learning platform for businesses
Here are some benefits of the top eLearning platforms that help businesses grow:
1. Flexibility of learning
The main advantage of business e-learning applications is the flexibility of learning. Employees value flexibility in learning because it prevents overscheduling of work. Overscheduling often takes a toll on an individual’s mental and physical health. On the other hand, group learning can create a struggle due to differences in workload, deadlines and learning abilities. Furthermore, no corporate house can afford to reduce working hours so that employees can learn a new skill. As a result, individually-tailored flexible learning can help employees achieve personal and professional goals by staying focused and motivated.
2. Consistency and productivity
eLearning training is consistent. All employees receive the same training because everything related to e-learning training would be set to equal standards. Unlike traditional learning methods, the purpose of e-learning programs is to provide specialized knowledge rather than general training. When employees gain a deeper understanding of the terminology used in their vertical, they tend to interact with colleagues and customers with confidence. With a motivated mindset, they tend to become decision makers that positively affect their performance.
3. Limit additional learning expenses
One of the biggest benefits of online learning, for companies and businesses, is reduced overhead. A business or a corporate house saves a huge sum of money through online courses available on e-learning platforms. This eliminates expenses such as fees of trainers/educators, travel and stationery such as a notebook and pen. By turning to eLearning, companies can reuse the same educational materials to train new employees.
4. Assured professional development
Scalability has always been a challenge in traditional learning. e-learning combats this by making results scalable. Online learning makes individuals accountable for their actions. Through e-learning platforms, employees can easily understand the concepts taught during the training program. Many MNCs like Apple, Google, IBM, etc., use eLearning platforms for training and skill development programs. Employees tend to remember complex concepts taught through this better compared to traditional training programs.
5. Improve retention rate
It is quite peculiar, but the retention rate is directly related to applications that provide online education. Unlike traditional learning, the concept of e-learning promotes flexibility and self-paced learning. Hence, the chances of rigor and non-compliance with the deadline are eliminated. This enables employees to maintain a balanced approach to work and learning. When employees are not intimidated to work or learn, their performance benefits the business organization they work for.
6. Access to experts
The eLearning platform ensures improved access to information imparted by professionals. Instead of learning from the same online educator, users can choose another educator who teaches the same concept to hone their skills. It relies on the grasping power of the human brain. Individuals tend to learn the same things differently depending on how fast they are. Learning from experts also gives a practical understanding of the concept.
7. Visual Learning
Visual learning is one of the main advantages of online learning. Visual learning makes it easier for individuals to grasp information easily without confusion. This happens because everyone understands information in a different way. Most e-learning courses are a fusion of visual and textual information. This makes it easier for students to grasp the right information in the most effective and engaging way. Infographics, assignments, podcasts, and more are prominent ways to learn new concepts and information related to an eLearning program.
eLearning platform benefits for business
For a business to excel in the current era, it is essential to attract employees with the essential elements and trends of digital learning. E-learning platforms are one of the biggest elements in the existing scenario because they open a new world of education. The flexibility and diversity of learning makes it a special way to absorb information. Undoubtedly, such a learning method will be widely appreciated in businesses and the corporate world. All in all, e-learning platforms are a one-stop solution that ensures a boom in business without hampering the productivity of employees. It not only fills the skill gap in the workforce but also caters to corporate goals.
Editor’s note: Check out our online guide to find, choose and compare Top LMS Software!