What is instructor-led training?
Instructor-led training is when an educator trains a group or an individual on a specific topic. The instructor is the primary facilitator throughout the class. However, this does not render the audience mere spectators for the training. Instead, the instructor only “leads” the sessions, and learners are able to participate in group discussion, ask questions, and get hands-on experience. Instructor-led training affords learners real time access to the instructor for prompt feedback, discussions, and questions.
There are many different approaches to instructor-led training, including:
- One-on-one conversation between the instructor and the learner
- One facilitator and a small group of learners/participants
- Lecture sessions
- Workshop programs
Regardless of the approach taken with instructor-led training, the instructor is always present and quickly accessible to the learners.
If you’ve been wondering what form of training your organization should embrace for your upcoming training program, look no further! Here are pros of instructor led training.
Pros of Instructor-led training
Organizations which have embraced and adopted instructor-led training enjoy many benefits. Some of the pros of instructor-led training include:
Open Dialogue:
Instructor-led training allows for open dialogue during the sessions. The instructor is always available to offer support and lead in the discussions. Open dialogue is important in ensuring all participants gain knowledge from the training exercise or program.
Quick Accessibility of Instructors:
Instructors are always available and at the disposal of the participants. The availability of the trainer increases the participants motivation and confidence. Utilizing video technology affords learners exposure the possibility of demonstrations, illustrations, experiments, and other practical exposure throughout their course. Instead of learners feeling alone or lost during their courses, technology bridges the gap, and participants are able to engage in their activities.
Engaging and Interactive:
Instructor-led trainings are often engaging and interactive. The participants have an opportunity to respond to the participants queries and provide in-depth explanations to complex concepts.
Adaptable:
Instructor-led training programs are easily adaptable and accessible to the participants. Often, the environments are casual and do not require formal interactions. Participants do not have the hassle of getting to a specific location for a class, instead, there is increased flexibility and learners can log on from wherever they may be in the world.
Network Building:
Organizations and individuals who have embraced instructor-led training are building their networks. During training sessions, participants are exposed to a variety of new classmates and individuals who share an interest in the topic at hand. This is the first step towards forming a connection with classmates. Not only that but having small and medium-size classes increases the willingness many people have to interact with others to develop and build their networks.
Distraction-free Environment:
An instructor-led training environment is often free from any distractions. The focus is always on the instructor and the content of the training. It is easy for the instructor and the participants to engage in discussions that reduce or eliminate distractions.
However, even with the pros, there are some drawbacks to instructor-led training.
Cons of Instructor-led training
Expensive:
Instructor-led training can be expensive. In comparing instructor-led training to e-learning, chances are that instructor-led training will cost more. However, as seen with the many benefits of instructor-led training, costs are warranted.
Consistency:
While instructors work to curate curriculum that can be repeated time and time again, the experience each group of learners has with their instructor will be unique.
