10 Tips to help you get the most from online training

Get the most from online training

At Prescience Technology we know there never seems to be enough time for training.

So when you do make that commitment and schedule time for training, you need to make sure it’s going to give you the knowledge and skills you expect.

All online training is not the same

Next-gen eLearning is great because of its interactivity, speed, convenience and reduced cost - especially for remote workforces.

But all online training is definitely not the same! So here are our top tips to help you get the most from online learning.

1. Choose wisely!

Do your research: establish the provider knows the subject.

Make sure the course has consistent navigation: if it doesn’t, you’re going to get distracted trying to figure out how to move through the course and won’t focus on what is being taught.

Ensure the course requires you to do something: the more interaction, the more likely it is to hold your interest

2. Check system compatibility

A common trap with online learning is that your system is not compatible with the technology through which the online content is delivered.

Check the stated software requirements and the quality of instruction before you purchase the course.

Ask if there is a model you can trial to check your system compatibility.

3. Do the training when you learn best

Because it’s online, you can do it when it suits you, so make sure it’s at a time that you’re at your peak and are going to get the most out of it.

4. Minimise distractions and interruptions

While online training can be done anywhere, anytime, it still requires you to concentrate.

Two common barriers to successful eLearning are distractions and interruptions.

Plan to undertake online learning in a quiet area with minimal distractions.

5. Break it up!

Spending hours in front of a screen very quickly becomes monotonous and strains the eyes of even the most committed learner

Plan your training: break sessions into half-hour ‘chunks,’ and take a mini break every half-hour to reduce eye strain and refresh your energy levels.

6. Don’t rush it

Make sure what’s on your screen is sinking in.

If your mouse is continuously hovering over the ‘next’ button you may feel the need to press on without properly digesting information.

Take your time – revisit any modules or scenarios you are unsure about, especially with step-by-step tutorials.

7. Put it into practice

Do all that you can to put what you’ve learnt into practice as soon as possible.

When possible, don’t do the training until you have the ability to put your knowledge into action away from the eLearning environment.

8. Match your career goals

When you sign up for a course with the intention of broadening your career options or job understanding, be sure to seek advice from your colleagues, your boss or those in positions that you are striving for.

Individuals who have strong ideas about your industry’s future may well be able to define particular skills and recommend courses that will get you ahead.

9. Believe in its merits

E-learning is vastly different from face-to-face learning. To get the most from it you need to believe in its potential to deliver quality education.

Online education is being constantly improved thanks to advancements in our understanding and implementation of online learning.

10. Understand its limitations

Online learning is only one element of the overall learning experience: you can’t learn everything you need to know from spending a couple of hours in front of the screen.

Keep this in mind when approaching online learning, and supplement online content with additional learning methods and tools.

14Confidential. Copyright Prescience 2012

Prescience Technology’s Online Training

Prescience Technology’s online Knowledge Builder Primavera P6 training courses have been designed by eLearning experts drawing on the experience of Primavera users.

There are five courses to suit different levels of experience or job roles.

For more information go to http://training.prescience.com.au/

Copyright Prescience :: Page 15

Confidential. Copyright Prescience 2012

About Prescience Technology

Prescience Technology is a boutique Oracle consultancy, combining deep technical knowledge with proven experience in disciplined project management and delivery.

For more information call 1300 086 816 or email info@prescience.com.au