Blog
The Power of Blended Learning for Continuous Growth
The Challenge
Workers across multiple industries are experiencing significant changes in their work environments as companies adapt to new challenges in areas such as remote working, building virtual relationships, digital disruption, increasing complexity and a global economic slowdown.
PwC conducted a survey in 2023 called "Hopes and Fears," which involved 54,000 employees in 46 countries and territories, to gather their opinions on these changing demands. The study found that 58% of employees expect the skills required for their role to undergo substantial changes in the next five years. This view is reinforced by the 2023 LinkedIn Workplace Learning Report, which reports that skill sets for jobs have changed by around 25% since 2015 and that this number is expected to double by 2027.
In a world where technology, industries, and job roles are evolving faster than ever before, the need for continuous skill development has become a driving force behind personal and professional growth.
Many workers already recognise the importance of constantly learning, unlearning and relearning to enhance their skills and understand that failing to do so could result in a significant risk of being left behind. However, only 26% of employees report that their organisation ‘challenged them to learn a new skill’ in the last 12 months and research has shown that, in an average 40-hour working week, employees only have 24 minutes to learn.
A Solution
In this environment of constantly changing needs and limited resources, Blended learning offers a powerful solution for employees to develop the skills they need to thrive in this future landscape. The Association for Talent Development (ATD) found that organisations using blended learning approaches were able to deliver training in 40–60% less time than those using traditional classroom methods and 39% of organisations already recognise the benefits of employing blended learning as part of their learning and development strategy.
So what is blended learning?
In simple terms, Blended learning is an approach that combines the strengths of online training courses and traditional instructor-led training (ILT). It doesn’t aim to replace one method with another but to leverage the benefits of both, to enhance the overall learning journey. Blended learning programs are about striking a balance between the benefits of technology-driven learning and the irreplaceable value of human interaction.
What are the benefits of online training courses and instructor-led training
Both online learning and instructor-led training offer their own benefits.
Online Training Course
In a blended learning program, online training courses serve as a foundation, offering the flexibility of self-paced learning, interactive multimedia elements, and access to a wide range of resources.
Online training courses can be updated quickly, meaning that employees are equipped with relevant skills when they need them (appealing to 49% of employees who prefer to learn at the point of need) and prepared for emerging challenges.
According to Training Industry Magazine, 58% of employees prefer to learn or train at their own speed and online training courses offer the flexibility for learners to access training at their convenience, accommodating work and personal commitments. Since online modules can be accessed from anywhere, they also allow organisations to upskill their workforce regardless of geographical constraints.
Instructor-led training
Instructor-led training, such as in-person facilitated sessions, virtual workshops and group discussions, complements digital engagement by providing real-time interaction, personalised guidance, collaborative activities, and practical application of learned concepts. When used alongside online modules, instructor-led training sessions are invaluable to bridge the gap between theory and application, cultivating confidence and competence.
One of the immediate benefits of instructor-led training is the real-time feedback learners receive. Instructors can gauge participants' understanding of new concepts and skills by asking questions and encouraging application through interactive activities, such as role plays. Observing learners' reactions and responding to questions or concerns on the spot, leads to quicker clarification and a better grasp of the subject matter.
These sessions also create collaborative environments where employees can interact with peers, share insights from their own learning, and engage in discussions.
The Power of Blended Learning
A blended learning program that includes both online and in-person training is one that adapts to the modern learner's needs by acknowledging that effective learning isn't confined to a single format. Blended learning is about optimizing the learning process by leveraging the strengths of each modality to create a holistic and impactful learning experience.
But beware! Blended learning is not a one-size-fits-all approach; the blend varies based on the learning goals, subject matter, and audience. Done well, it is a thoughtful and deliberate combination of online and in-person learning elements and involves careful planning to ensure that each type of learning activity complements the others. The best blended learning programs provide an active experience that encourages learners to participate and engage, whether they are interacting with digital content or collaborating with peers and instructors in person.
Unlock the Potential of Blended Learning
Integrating blended learning into your training approach can drastically transform the way you teach, coach and inspire your learners. Combining the benefits of online training courses, in-instructor-led training, and other supportive methods can create an exciting and fulfilling learning experience that leads to success.
At Adaptable Learning we are experts in developing blended learning programs for organisations that want to improve their employees' or clients’ capabilities in sales, sales management, leadership, customer service and emotional intelligence.
Ask us about the possibilities of blended learning and start unlocking your learners' full potential now!