Virtual Staff training. Yes it falls under our purview as HR Executives/Consultants. I recently read an article on being Virtually Competent. It said:
“After almost two decades, virtual classrooms have become an expected part of the corporate training mix. Most organizations already have invested in virtual classroom software and are now expecting that some percentage of their training content will be delivered virtually.”
But before we talk virtual learning for staff, how are our grounds rules on our own training? Are we good participants? What should your guidelines be when it comes to effective Staff training?
Quietness.
Don’t create an environment where participants are easily distracted. Find a place that will allow you to participate. If you need a telephone, consider a headset for comfort. Talk to the Instructor about using Skype or Google Hangouts as an option as well.
Distractions. Remove them.
Due to the multi-tasking environments that we work in, an email, a telephone call, etc. may interrupt the process. Virtual training programs are not for multi-tasking. To learn and answer business calls may not be effective.
Equipment Equipment Equipment.
Sometimes the Facilitator may request that you specifically use a laptop or PC. It’s probably a good thing to adhere to the request as a Tablet may not have the resources to power the presentation. But it won’t hurt to ask the facilitator what may be good alternatives before the training session begins.
..but also software…
Make sure the software for the training session works on your PC before the session starts. Many times the link to download is sent 36 hours in advance. That’s enough time to test the waters, and screen shoot any error messages you may have while installing or using the software.
And finally… be nice. Participate!
It’s called participant training for a reason. Your level of participation tells the instructor how you are handling the material. Sometimes Instructors like to fast track if they realize you can handle it. That only happens based on participation engagement.
Virtual Learning is fast becoming part of how we train up our staff in new tech, methods of delivery of a product or service, and how to be a virtually competent participant is just as important as the content being delivered. But that said, being a disciplined participant is just as important.
