Professional Development Training: Self Paced Learning or Live Instruction?
Self Paced Learning or Live Instruction.
Which is right for your professional development?
Professional development training in any industry is crucial for success for both employees and employers. Many organizations offer incentives to pursue professional development training opportunities to employees and sometimes, might even offer those opportunities themselves. The infographic included in this blog post highlights the key differences between self-paced learning and live instruction which we hope can help employees and employers make informed decisions about professional development training opportunities.
Let’s take a closer look into the advantages and considerations of each method!
What is Self Paced Learning?
Self-paced learning involves curated content presented online through videos, slides, eBooks, and quizzes. It can be structured or unstructured based on the course. This method requires self-discipline, as learners must motivate themselves to engage with the material. Typically, learners spend about three weeks to a month on a self-paced course. Some examples of self paced courses include courses from Coursera, Udemy, and edX.
What is Live Instruction Learning?
Live instruction takes place in a classroom setting, either virtually or physically, with an expert leading the session. The content is tailored to the needs of the development plan, including slide decks, in-depth drills, exercises, practice exams, interactive activities, and discussions. This method fosters an inquisitive environment, allowing learners to interact directly with instructors and peers.
How Does Each Method Benefit Professional Development Training?
Self-Paced Learning:
- Flexibility: Learners can access materials at any time, allowing them to balance their training with personal and professional responsibilities. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for employees with varying schedules and commitments.
- Customization: Individuals can proceed at their own pace, spending more time on challenging topics and moving quickly through familiar material. This personalized approach can enhance understanding and retention of information.
- Cost-Effective: Often, self-paced courses are less expensive than live instruction, making them an attractive option for both organizations and employees looking to minimize costs while maximizing learning opportunities.
- Wide Range of Resources: The use of diverse materials like videos, slides, and quizzes can cater to different learning styles, helping learners to engage with the content in a way that suits them best.
Live Instruction:
- Immediate Feedback: Instructors can provide real-time feedback, addressing questions and clarifying doubts instantly, which can significantly enhance the learning experience.
- Interactive Learning Environment: Live sessions encourage active participation through discussions, group activities, and hands-on exercises, fostering a collaborative learning atmosphere.
- Structured Schedule: A set schedule can help learners stay on track and maintain a consistent pace, reducing the risk of procrastination that can occur with self-paced learning.
- Networking Opportunities: Participants can connect with peers and instructors, building professional relationships that can be beneficial for career growth and development.
Both self-paced learning and live instruction offer unique benefits and challenges. Self-paced learning is ideal for those who need flexibility and can manage their own time, while live instruction provides structure and immediate support, making it easier to stay motivated and engaged. Choosing the right approach depends on personal learning styles, resources available, and specific educational or professional goals. Consider these factors carefully to make the most of professional development learning experiences.
Interested in Professional Development Training Opportunities for your Employees?
Interested in Professional Development Training Opportunities for yourself?
