What Is eLearning? A Detailed Guide for Business Leaders

Struggling to keep your training programs engaging?  eLearning is your answer! 

In today's fast-paced world, HR professionals constantly look for innovative ways to deliver impactful learning experiences. 

Scheduling in-person seminars or training sessions can be a logistical nightmare. Finding a room that can accommodate everyone and picking a time that works for all participants feels like an impossible puzzle. E-learning is the answer. 

eLearning content software is a powerful tool that offers a dynamic and adaptable solution to the challenges faced by educators and HR professionals alike.

But what exactly is eLearning, and how can it revolutionize how we deliver knowledge and skills? Let's delve deeper and explore the exciting world of eLearning...

The importance of eLearning

Types of eLearning methods

Each type of eLearning offers unique benefits and caters to different learning preferences, making it essential for educators and trainers to select the most appropriate approach based on their objectives, content, and audience needs.

• Web eLearning uses websites for learning. Employees can access it from their devices or company internet. It's flexible, letting them learn anytime, anywhere. 
  
• Virtual classrooms are modern versions of in-person training. Instructors and attendees connect through video software. This allows interaction and engagement, like a real classroom. 
  
• Video modules are pre-made videos for learning. Videos are flexible and can be watched anytime. They deliver short pieces of information, usually 1 to 5 minutes long. It's ideal for today's short attention spans.
  
• Social media training uses platforms like YouTube, Facebook, or Instagram for learning. It creates a collaborative environment, improving communication skills.
• Mobile learning lets employees access training on their phones. It's convenient and accessible, fitting into busy schedules.
• Gamification integrates game elements, such as points, badges, leaderboards, and rewards, into the learning process to enhance engagement and motivation. 
• Augmented reality adds virtual elements to the real world, and virtual reality creates fully virtual worlds. Both technologies enhance training experiences, making learning more immersive and engaging.

eLearning vs. distance learning

Though they may sound like synonyms, eLearning and distance learning are entirely different practices.

When it comes to eLearning, lessons do not have to be fully remote or digital. They can be used as a supplement for in-person learning and interactions. With distance learning, online resources are the only option because there is no in-person classroom. Instructors assign work and check in on progress digitally.

Because eLearning is primarily used as part of a blended learning technique, the interaction you’re expected to have with employees is higher. Distance learning does not have the in-person interaction component that eLearning does because there is no in-person classroom. 

 An eLearning strategy is often used in addition to face-to-face interaction, while distance learning is the only available option to connect with distributed employees.

eLearning vs. virtual training

eLearning allows for personalized learning experiences tailored to individual employee needs. For example, sales teams might not require training on email marketing platforms, making eLearning a suitable option for targeted skill development. In contrast, virtual training focuses on delivering uniform information across the workforce, particularly regarding compliance training or IT security.

The main distinction lies in how coursework is completed. In eLearning, users must meet specific requirements such as quizzes or projects to demonstrate understanding, while virtual training typically involves passive absorption of information, often followed by a brief assessment.

Benefits of eLearning for businesses

Just like any tool, eLearning has its pros and cons, but its advantages are worth noting, especially for businesses.

• Cost-effectiveness: Using an eLearning platform can save businesses money by moving part of their training online. This eliminates costs related to physical classrooms, supplies, and transportation. It also saves time and money for learners, whether the training is fully online or a mix of online and in-person sessions.
• Flexible pacing: eLearning allows learners to make self-paced progress. This means fast learners can move ahead while others can take more time if needed. This flexibility helps ensure better understanding and retention of the material.
• Gamification in eLearning: Some platforms use gamification to make learning more engaging. This can include earning points or playing virtual games related to the material. Gamification adds a fun element to learning and motivates learners to stay engaged and progress in their online training.

For example, Duolingo utilizes gamification to motivate language learners through daily challenges and point-scoring systems. By introducing elements of competition and achievement, gamification fosters a sense of progress and motivation among learners, ultimately enhancing their learning experience.

Challenges of eLearning for businesses

While eLearning offers numerous benefits, it also poses some challenges, particularly concerning technology reliance.

• Technology issues: Sudden problems like technical glitches or software malfunctions that may disrupt learning sessions require flexibility and quick troubleshooting. 
  
• Communication: Unlike in-person interactions, eLearning platforms may lack the personal connection and rapport established through face-to-face communication. To overcome this, educators must proactively work to maintain engagement and interaction with employees.
  
• Differences in learning styles: eLearning may not cater equally to all learning styles, potentially disadvantaging employees who thrive in traditional classroom settings. Educators must recognize these differences and adapt eLearning strategies to accommodate diverse learning preferences effectively.

Best eLearning solutions

The final step in understanding eLearning is knowing your options. There are plenty of different approaches to eLearning that you can choose from. Below are the most popular ones.

• Learning management system (LMS) is a comprehensive platform for delivering, managing, and tracking online learning programs. It's ideal for organizations looking to centralize their eLearning training efforts, track learner progress, and ensure compliance with training requirements.
• Course authoring tools allow educators to create and customize online training courses without extensive programming knowledge. It suits businesses or educators who want full control over course content and design.
• Learning experience platforms  (LXPs) offer personalized learning journeys by curating content from various sources, including user-generated content. They recommend learning paths based on individual needs and goals, making them ideal for organizations focused on tailored learning experiences.
• Microlearning platforms deliver short, focused learning modules that address specific learning objectives. They're suitable for organizations that deliver bite-sized, easily digestible eLearning training content that fits busy schedules and caters to shorter attention spans.

Time to hit the books!

eLearning is not a replacement for the work you do as HR. It’s a tool you can use to forge connections with the team to improve their training experience. Be sure to consider what your team needs when choosing your eLearning strategy. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach, but there’s undoubtedly an eLearning solution that will work for your needs.

Learn how a corporate LMS manages training programs for onboarding, development, and compliance.

This article was originally published in 2020. It has been updated with new information.