Five tips for successfully implementing e-learning

Do you think your organization is ready for e-learning? Check these tips just to be sure. This will ensure that the implementation is a success and that your e-learning platform doesn't end up gathering dust.

1. Have you conducted thorough preliminary research?

Conducting thorough preliminary research is an essential prerequisite for the success of e-learning within an organization. In our previous blog we outlined the factors that are important when taking the step toward e-learning as a supplement to, or replacement for, traditional professional development activities.

Once psychological, social, and environmental factors, as well as existing computer skills and potential resistance within the organization, have been taken into account, the organization can begin preparing to actually start and implement e-learning.

To make this implementation a success, these tips are essential:

2. Don't go too fast

Don't overwhelm employees with an extensive range of software, apps, and technologies right away. Implement e-learning bit by bit. When employees experience success with the new way of learning, they are more inclined to return to the learning material regularly.

When they feel overwhelmed and cannot navigate the new way of learning comfortably, they are less likely to invest time in it. It can then feel as though so much time is wasted figuring out the technology that the content doesn't even get a look-in.

3. Don't stand still

This tip might seem to contradict tip 2, but it doesn't. To ensure the highest efficiency and effectiveness of e-learning, it is essential to stay up to date with the latest possibilities in the field of e-learning. This helps create a 'toolbox' in which various technologies and pedagogies can be combined to create optimal e-learning content and an optimal learning environment and experience for the students.

4. Maintain contact with the student – virtually and face-to-face

When an employee is ready to start e-learning, it doesn't mean they are expected to complete the e-learning journey entirely on their own. Keep a finger on the pulse to gauge the needs of the students. The availability and accessibility of support are important for the student to feel comfortable while learning; after all, the student knows that help is close by.

If a student has to wait too long for an answer or is not well aware of the ways they can ask for help, it can lead to frustration and giving up.

This is logical if we compare it to a classroom situation. Imagine asking your teacher a question and they don't look at you or respond to the question you need answered to continue learning. That is unacceptable!

In e-learning, too, the absence or unavailability of support is unacceptable. Although the support might be perceived as less personal, its presence is of great importance.

It is interesting to explore the possibilities of a 'virtual classroom'. A virtual classroom can be designed in several ways, such as through Skype technology or by integrating video and chat, but the importance of connection comes first.

Starting a Community of Practice is also an effective way to brainstorm, exchange experiences, and share best practices.

In addition, it is effective to nominate one clear person as the 'go-to' person for students following an e-learning path, for example, an 'e-learning coordinator'. The e-learning coordinator must be very knowledgeable about technology and contributes to the quality of learning and the online learning experience. Furthermore, they guide the student toward successfully completing any assessments (and the e-learning coordinator can also grade the assessments if necessary).

Also read: increase intrinsic motivation with gamification in e-learning.

5. Monitor progress

One of the most important roles of the e-learning coordinator is facilitating regular check-ins with students. These not only ensure that students feel seen and heard, but also foster a sense of accountability. For students who are not naturally self-directed learners, this can be the extra push they need to keep working on their e-learning.

Collecting interim feedback from students is an effective way to adjust e-learning along the way and develop solutions to meet student needs.

With these 8 steps, you can create an online training course in no time.

In summary

1. Conduct thorough preliminary research into psychological, social, and environmental factors, as well as existing computer skills and potential resistance within your organization. Carefully review these findings before implementing e-learning.
2. Introduce e-learning gradually and do not overwhelm employees with countless new technologies.
3. Create a modern toolbox based on e-learning research and trends, combining high-quality technology and pedagogy for an optimal e-learning experience.
4. Be accessible. Ensure that students do not feel like they are on their own and that they know they can always ask for help. Build connections by starting a community of practice and appointing an e-learning coordinator.
5. Ask for interim feedback from students. This makes students feel seen and heard, while allowing your organization to collect valuable data and adjust or refine the e-learning where necessary.

Want to know more about e-learning? Download our free e-book 'E-learning Essentials'!