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Is Classroom Time Equal to eLearning Time?

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As experienced eLearning instructional designers, we are often asked if there is a 1-to-1 correlation when converting existing facilitated training into online training.  The answer is NO.  Converting classroom training does NOT equal the same “seat time”.  When asked to estimate conversion time to eLearning training, here’s some of the factors we base our bid on.

Based on experience in converting hundreds of hours of training to the web, we have discovered that an 8-hour (or one day) training is actually the equivalent of about 4-6 hours of eLearning, depending upon the course complexity.  Why?  Classroom instruction is a different modality including many “non-instructional time-based activities” such as:

  • Classroom management activities including roll calls and general instructions
  • Time spent on building a comfortable learning environments with individual student introductions
  • Meal or stretch breaks
  • Student questions during classroom lessons or planned Q&A sessions
  • Built-in “dead time” to provide extra time for all to complete activities without feeling rushed
  • And bloviating instructors who going off on personal opinion tangents

eLearning can be designed as 100% instruction because it  bypasses “non-instructional” events, thus reducing “seat time” and delivering instruction from the first screen.  By working with company subject matter experts (SMEs) and experienced instructional designer (eLearning expert) can ask the right questions to build a training program that truly delivers on the intended instructional promise.

Just using the same old training curriculum will not work.  If you want to deliver a good eLearning experience, revamping existing PowerPoint presentations takes time working with SMEs to determine the specific audience training needs are defined. Then within that framework, review classroom training by determining what is relevant or Need-to-Know versus just Good-to-Know information.  This is also the time to determine if there are updates or revisions along with identifying “information gaps”.  Then based upon the SME review findings, the instructional designer can provide a good estimate on the actual eLearning experience “seat time” to include topics and number of interactive lessons.

Need to revamp your training?  Visit Design2Train to book an appointment, let’s talk.   www.Design2Train.com

Instructional Designer Role in the Virtual Classroom

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Project Management Update Best Article

Over the past three years, there has been a significant shift in the way learning is delivered due to the advancements in technology. The traditional classroom setup has been replaced by online platforms that provide access to education from across the organization to anywhere in the world. This need has given rise to the concept of virtual classrooms, which are becoming increasingly popular in all organizations.

The virtual classroom is a digital environment that allows learners to access course content, interact with instructors and peers, and complete assignments and assessments. It is a powerful tool for training and development, but it requires a skilled instructional designer to build and facilitate it effectively.

The instructional designer is a crucial role in building the virtual classroom. Their primary responsibility is to ensure that the learning objectives are achieved through the virtual classroom. They take the lead in designing, developing, and delivering e-learning content that is engaging and effective.

The primary task of the instructional designer is to create a curriculum aligned with organizational objectives. This involves analyzing the needs of the learners, identifying the skills and knowledge they need to acquire, and developing learning objectives that align with the organization’s goals. The instructional designer should also consider the format of the virtual classroom, including the type of content, delivery methods, and assessment tools.

Then comes the task of building a virtual classroom by designing the content. The instructional designer must create content that is engaging, interactive, and relevant to the learners. This requires working with subject matter experts to gather need-to-know information and then presenting it in engaging lessons that help learners to learn. The instructional designer also needs to ensure content is accessible to all learners, regardless of their background or level of experience.

The instructional designer is the chief architect for facilitating the learning process, by creating an environment that encourages learners to engage with the content and build community with each other. This includes creating opportunities for discussion, collaboration, and feedback. The instructional designer makes time on a regular and ongoing basis to answer questions and provide support throughout the learning process, from concept to launch.

Assessment is an essential and often overlooked component of the virtual classroom. The instructional designer plays a critical role in designing and delivering assessments. They develop assessment tools to align with the stated learning objectives and provide learners with feedback on their progress. The instructional designer uses tools to provide assessment reporting data to senior management to demonstration the effectiveness of the virtual classroom curriculum and offer suggestions for future needed training topics. 

Finally, the instructional designer stays up-to-date with the latest trends and technology in e-learning. They continuously evaluate the virtual classroom’s effectiveness and make adjustments as needed to ensure it meets the learners’ needs and achieves the organization’s objectives.

In conclusion, the instructional designer plays a crucial role in building the virtual classroom. They are responsible for designing, developing, and delivering e-learning content that is engaging, interactive, and effective. They create virtual learning environments encouraging learners to engage with the content and each other, while having access to confidence building   support throughout the project. The instructional designer continuously gathers data and makes recommendations based on facts from evaluating the virtual classroom’s effectiveness to achieve the organization’s objectives.

Need help building a virtual classroom?  Book an appointment and let’s talk.