As online courses increase in range and popularity, we explore the benefits of e-learning and whether it can really replace traditional classroom learning.
E-Learning
• Flexibility – online learning allows users to work at their own pace. Students can learn at a time that suits them, providing flexibility for those in full time jobs or situations that don’t allow for full time study. Some businesses, restaurants for example, may find it difficult to remove staff from their duties to take part in training. Online courses allow users to learn as and when it suits them, or their business.
• Location – breaking free from the limitations of a physical classroom, e-learning students can learn wherever internet access allows. This can prove ideal for on-the-go learners who need to fit their learning into a busy schedule.
• “Just-in-time” learning – the easy accessibility of e-learning allows employees to attend a course prior to performing a task. In businesses with high staff turnover rates, this can improve levels of legal compliance and increase staff efficiency. Additionally, by reducing the time difference between learning and practicing a topic, this method of learning can prove to be more effective. For a business in the manufacturing industry for example, employees can learn how to carry out a job, directly before doing so.
Classroom Learning
• Social interaction – in more traditional classroom environments, students have the ability to ask questions during the course and instigate discussions on topics. Through these questions students can expand on areas of confusion and work together to improve their understanding. This level of interaction can often create a more engaging learning environment for the students.
• Clarity – in classroom learning, teachers have the ability to run through presentations in whatever detail they feel necessary to ensure students fully understand the topic. With online learning, there is a greater dependency on the teacher providing sufficient notes to accompany presentation slides etc.
• Flexible content – another benefit of classroom courses is that the teacher has the ability to amend content to apply to student’s situations. For example, a course on HACCP can be amended specifically for employees in the bakery or restaurant industry etc. This allows for more personalised and applicable content that the students can benefit directly from.
As to which style of learning is the most effective, it completely depends on the situation. For those that need to learn quickly and at a time that suits them, online learning is the perfect solution. However, for those in need of a more in depth understanding of a topic, traditional classroom learning can provide a more engaging environment in which students also learn from discussions and the ability to ask questions during the course.
We provide a range of both online and classroom courses on Food Safety and Health and Safety. For more information, contact us on 08450 267 745 or enter an enquiry below.