As we’ve just seen, eLearning brings clear benefits to businesses in today’s digital-first workplace. Accessibility and engagement are two examples of ways it’s demonstrating a return on investment (ROI). But there are more. Other advantages include more efficient skill-building, greater scalability, and measurable performance outcomes.
However, while the benefits are significant, it’s important to weigh these against potential drawbacks. By understanding the balance between the two, businesses can ensure eLearning aligns with organizational and employee needs. So, let’s look at both sides of the coin.
The benefits of eLearning
1. Engagement
Powered by interactive training technology, eLearning leverages multimedia elements such as videos, quizzes, gamification, and simulations. Unlike traditional training methods, these dynamic tools cater to diverse learning styles. They elevate the content by making it more relatable, and targeted, and by demanding a reaction or response. All this, in turn, captivates learners and keeps them engaged. It also boosts knowledge retention. Because when employees feel actively involved in their learning journey, they’re more likely to retain information and apply it effectively.
2. Accessibility
Time and distance are two of the biggest barriers associated with traditional or face-to-face training. Not so with eLearning, where employees can access training materials anytime and from any place. This is ideal for organizations with remote teams or global workforces. But it’s also a practical option for most other businesses, too. Increased accessibility is also supported by eLearning platforms that incorporate accessibility features, such as closed captioning and screen reader compatibility.
3. Lower costs
Once created, eLearning modules can be reused. They can also be scaled to accommodate large numbers of employees, making it a cost-efficient solution for ongoing training needs. eLearning also significantly reduces costs associated with in-person training, including venue hire, printed materials, travel expenses, and instructor fees. These long-term savings enable organizations to allocate resources to other strategic areas.
4. Agility
eLearning offers unparalleled flexibility, allowing all employees to learn at their own pace and schedule. Learning modules can also be quickly updated to reflect new regulations, technologies, or market trends. This is particularly beneficial for organizations operating in fast-paced industries where adaptability is crucial.
5. Employee retention
Development opportunities are closely linked to higher levels of attrition within organizations. In fact, 86% of HR Managers find training beneficial for retention of employees. eLearning contributes to a culture of continuous learning, making employees feel valued and empowered. It also boosts morale and motivation. The result? Employees who feel supported in their professional growth are more likely to stay with the company long-term, reducing turnover rates and associated hiring costs.
6. Comprehensive reporting and evaluation
Most eLearning platforms include robust reporting tools that allow managers to track progress, measure completion rates, and assess performance. These insights help organizations identify skills gaps, tailor training programs, and demonstrate the impact of learning initiatives. With clear metrics, companies can refine their strategies and ensure alignment with business goals.
7. Scalability
With eLearning, businesses can train 10 employees with the same level of support, quality, and consistency as 10,000. This scalability is particularly advantageous for fast-growing companies. It’s also ideal for onboarding, compliance training, or large-scale skill development programs across distributed teams.
The drawbacks of eLearning
1. Isolation
With in-person training sessions, participants are almost forced to collaborate and network. With eLearning, employees can feel that they are alone in a training bubble. And, as a result, may feel isolated and unsupported.
The solution: Use eLearning technology to support collaborative learning and social learning. Discussion groups, virtual breakout rooms, video conferencing, and knowledge huddles all build a sense of community. And keep live, online training sessions with multiple learners sociable and fun.
2. Health Implications
Prolonged screen time associated with eLearning can contribute to physical strain, such as eye fatigue, headaches, and poor posture. These health concerns can impact focus and overall employee wellbeing, particularly for employees already spending significant time on computers.
The solution: Encourage regular breaks, have regular check-ins with employees, and incorporate ergonomic practices into online training best practices.
3. Motivation
While eLearning’s flexibility is a strength, it sometimes places greater responsibility on employees to manage their learning schedules. Without direct supervision or structured classroom environments, some individuals may procrastinate. Or experience low levels of motivation.
The solution: Schedule automated reminders for learners inside your LMS or eLearning platform. Use gamification techniques to build incentives into the training process and encourage healthy competition.
4. Practical application
Certain skills, particularly hands-on or physical tasks, are challenging to teach effectively through eLearning alone. Simulations and virtual reality can bridge this gap to some extent. But they may not fully replicate real-world scenarios.
The solution: A blended learning approach that combines eLearning with in-person training can bridge the gap between theory and practice.
5. Technical issues
eLearning relies heavily on stable internet connections and access to compatible devices. Platform glitches or connectivity problems can disrupt learning and frustrate employees.
The solution: Provide employees with the right tools, resources, and hardware. Invest in a user-friendly LMS with access to mobile learning, plus a content downloader. And ensure adequate training and IT support.
6. Immediate feedback
While many eLearning platforms provide automated assessments, some may lack the immediacy and depth of feedback available in face-to-face settings. This can delay the resolution of learner queries or misunderstandings, potentially hindering progress.
The solution: Choose an eLearning platform that supports built-in discussion boards and live Q&A sessions.