adult learner

Thomas R. Cutler Manufacturing Journalist Profiles Elearning in the Insider

Thomas R. Cutler Manufacturing Journalist Profiles Elearning in the Insider
In the current issue of The Insider, by AS411 (www.as411.com) leading manufacturing journalist, Thomas R. Cutler profiles the importance and changing role of e-Learning.            e-Learning has taken on increasing importance as most companies have global operations.  Like franchise operations manuals that ensure a Big Mac is prepared consistently worldwide, e-learning allows the nature of global operations to  achieve standardization.  According to Six Sigma Master Black Belt Training and Instructional Design expert, Diane Lippman, “Adult learners prefer a menu of options in learning methodology.  ILT (instructor lead training), e-learning or CBT (computer based training; WBT (web-based training, such as WebEx), and m-learning (mobile learning), each have traits and characteristics that will facilitate learning and foster an environment of adoption and compliance when training is mandatory.

Part of a Cultural Change

Until recently companies brought in Six Sigma consultants and used a significant amount of staff time to conduct training.  There was often resentment because while this training occurred, staff was still expected to complete all usual functions and meet responsibilities and deadlines. According to Lippman, “One of the biggest obstacles of Six Sigma or Lean is the cultural hurdle.  As part of the change management strategy, e-Learning orientation can be a tool in the arsenal to bridge the awareness and orientation gaps.”

e-learning Gains to Justify Training ROI

The cost of training, the logistics of bringing trainers in house, learner travel costs and down time; site planning and costs, all have a fairly high cost component.   The demand for e-Learning is  increasing rapidly because compared to onsite training; the costs is often less and the ability to provide a customizable solution that suits the company culture and approach is achieved more readily and drives better bottom-line impact.  Most importantly, the company owns the training, allowing a more successful knowledge transfer.

Measuring is always the key

The core concept of Lean, Six Sigma, and Lean Six Sigma is the ability to measure process improvement.  e-Learning utilizes quizzes and assessments built into the online courseware.  Lippman noted, “Data can be measure through the Learning Management Systems (LMS) which allows for assessment of both training content analysis as well as the ability to quantify learner comprehension and subsequent application.”  Prerequisites and mastery level courses may be required before a (perhaps a passing grade of 80% or better can be established before the next course or lesson can be taken.)

Training web resources provide easy-to-use, self-paced educational tools for everyone who needs an introduction to standards and conformity assessment activities. e-Learning content highlights the value and importance of standards and compliance programs in the U.S. and around the globe. By taking e-courses and exploring related educational resources and employees gain a strong understanding of key organizational metrics and processes.

About TR Cutler, Inc.:

TR Cutler, Inc. was founded by Thomas R. Cutler almost a decade ago. Cutler maintains extraordinary relationships with clients, journalists, editors, trendsetters, and key business leaders worldwide and has become a key resource for those writing about the manufacturing sector. Cutler founded the Manufacturing Media Consortium™ in the 1999. This extraordinary group of more than 3400 journalists worldwide is writing about trends, data, case studies, profiles, and features in the manufacturing and industrial sector. Cutler has worked with thousands of media outlets to expand manufacturing media coverage.  Cutler has authored more than 2,000 articles for a wide range of manufacturing periodicals, industrial publications, and business journals including most of the leading monthly trade publications.

Cutler established a Manufacturing Marketing Research division dedicated to measuring the pulse of the manufacturing sector, particularly manufacturing firms which are privately held and rarely accounted for when gauging the industry sentiment.  TR Cutler, Inc. provides a voice for manufacturers worldwide.

TR Cutler, Inc.

www.trcutlerinc.com

Thomas Cutler

trcutler@trcutlerinc.com

888-902-0300

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Catch the ELearning Train – From Classroom to ERoom

Catch the ELearning Train - From Classroom to ERoom
Have you heard the new buzz word – eLearning? It has come to the forefront in the last couple of years. But, what does it really mean?

ELearning is a method of instruction where the teacher and student are located in different locations or where there is a time gap between the two, but by using internet technology, the instructor is able to teach a specific topic or skill. The advantage here is that this can take place from any location in the world and at anytime that they are able to get together online.

So now that we know what eLearning is all about, how can you take advantage of eLearning and what is it you should look for? Many people look at the internet as a great source of information, but only look at what information that they can get for free or can buy through videos or e-books.

There are many videos and e-books available for sale on the internet, but once you have spent your money, do you know what to do with the information? Do you any anyone to contact if you have any questions? Can you bounce ideas off of another person studying the same information? How do you find someone that is studying the information?

While these may seem like simple things to think about, it really has a large impact on your ability to learn new skills, especially if you are working to make a career change utilizing the internet. Learning is a very dynamic process and everyone learns a little bit differently. But even with this, interaction with other is almost always the best way to learn. Adult learners tend to be more visual and interactive than even when they were in school. They have experiences now that allow them to look at everything a little differently. They will tend to question ideas more.

With knowing this, live training has been found to be the best format for learning. The ability to interact in small groups, to ask questions, and to be able to share with others is crucial for learning.

So from this, we know that live training is important and people learn best from this. With the environment like the internet, where interaction is mainly through writing and words, how does one find the interactive training that works so well?

Look for a training program that does more that just give you eBooks and videos. Look for one that offers live conference training. Look for one, where you actually can develop a relationship with your trainers. They should act more as a mentor than as a teacher. Look for a place where the class sizes are small so questions can be asked.

While it is true that the internet is a fountain of information, how you can gain skills and knowledge is still all about interaction and sharing. While the old fashion classroom in colleges is still one method of learning, they are starting to offer more and more classes through distance learning. While this is a step in the right direction, many of these courses and programs will still not give you the skills that you will need to succeed on the internet. eLearning for you needs to be more skill specific and there are training organizations on the internet that cater to those wanting to learn these skill sets. Pick a specific skill that you need to learn and then find the right training program to meet your needs.

So what types of skills should you be willing to pay for? Look for classes or programs that are small business oriented; including topics as internet advertising, internet marketing, and basic finance, but tailored specifically for your specific business market. Others skill sets you will need and need to learn will be building a landing page, search engine optimization, list building, blogging, copywriting, and sales pages.

In today’s internet environment, there are trainers, coaches, and mentors whose businesses cater to those just starting out building an internet business. Tap into this new resource and take advantage of their expertise and experiences. You will not regret it.

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