What Is Instructor-Led Training? Everything You Need To Know

Introduction

The emergence of COVID is largely responsible for the rise in popularity of online, self-paced learning in recent years. Although many training providers have used it, its level of success has been uneven. As things start to feel more regular again, training companies are starting to use a hybrid or blended approach.

Executive Summary

In this guide to Instructor-Led Training, we break down what is instructor-led training, the advantages, and disadvantages of instructor-led training, how to develop an ILT or a virtual training platform, is an ILT is right for your company, and the challenges it comes with.

What Is ILT – Instructor-Led Training?

Any training that is facilitated by an instructor, whether it be online or in a classroom environment, is referred to as instructor-led training, or ILT. An interactive workshop that allows for on-site practice of the skill or electronically utilizing video conferencing capabilities can all be used to give instructor-led instruction.

ILT is a great option for businesses that need to train employees on extremely complicated subjects, need hands-on interactive learning, value face-to-face connection, and have the time to immerse learners in multi-day training sessions.

In a setting that promotes conversation and engagement, this type of instruction links students with teachers. Utilizing an educator with subject-matter expertise engages students more deeply, enhancing knowledge transfer. ILT supports a variety of teaching pedagogies and learning styles because it is person-to-person and provides real-time feedback.

Benefits Of Instructor-Led Training (ILT)

Principal advantages of instructor-led instruction include:

• Tailored Learning

When working one-on-one with small groups of students, knowledgeable instructors can adapt their strategies and respond to particular questions.

• Student Networking

The teacher and other students can be introduced. Some people can study more effectively when they have dedicated time and place for it.

• Agile Feedbacks

The instructor can immediately modify the lesson schedule to take into account instantaneous feedback if a particular module is unclear, or moving too slowly or quickly.

• Hands-On Experience

It is simpler to incorporate laboratories and practical activities using ILT. Some subjects, like using medical equipment, could call for practical instruction.

• Valued Perception 

Due to the obvious expenses involved with the instructor and facilities, students frequently perceive ILT to be worth more than they actually are.

• Reduced Fixed Costs

ILT costs can be easily managed without spending money on either content or technology because they are mostly determined by the teachers and facilities used.

Drawbacks Of Instructor-Led Training (ILT) Or Virtual Training Platform

• Costs 

Instructor-led training involves ongoing costs including venue rental, instructor fees, travel costs, lost employee productivity, training supplies, food, drink, etc.

• Fewer students at Particular Time 

You can train fewer students at a time with instructor-led training courses because they are often conducted in small groups. A virtual training platform, like eLearning, can be used to train many people at once.

• Absence from Work 

While removing your students from the office’s distractions may be a terrific idea, the drawback is that they are now out of the office. While instructor-led training necessitates workers to set aside a day (or several days) away from the office and their regular responsibilities, virtual learning tools allow learners to fit learning around their schedules.

Developing Instructor-Led Training Programs

Technical environments, business issues, goals, brands, and cultures are particular to each corporation. When creating an ILT program that is intended to succeed, each of these factors must be taken into account. L&D teams can benefit the organization and its teams by creating an instructor-led training program that can be delivered both physically and online.

So, how should your ILT or vILT programs be developed?

Step 1: 

Consult with an instructor-led training partner to determine your requirements, company objectives, difficulties, and other success-related aspects.

Step 2: 

Create a unique ILT or virtual ILT solution to meet those demands.

Step 3: 

Create the instructor-led materials and content.

Step 4: 

Deliver ILT content, assess performance as training is finished/measured, and make any adjustments.

A single ILT session does not mark the conclusion of the process of learning, which is ongoing. This should be considered while creating a powerful and efficient instructor-led training program that is planned to offer learners ongoing opportunities. ILT programs should promote learning, be in line with organizational objectives, and be created to meet the unique requirements of each team.

Is ILT Right for Your Company?

Companies who wish to provide client training that extends above and beyond self-paced programs may consider instructor-led training programs. These businesses could

• Possess highly sophisticated products
• Possess mechanical goods that need touch with the hands
• A very limited number of pupils must be trained
• Having pupils who are not digitally aware
• Have pupils who can afford to pay for training that lasts a whole day or several days and who also need it.
• Clearly define industry or user conventions where training can be given
• Esteem possibilities for face-to-face communication and networking

Challenges Of An ILT

There are difficulties in instructor-led teaching. Many of these issues can be resolved through eLearning, including:

• High implementation costs, both financially and in terms of time.
• Educators’ inconsistent communication and teaching methods.
• A break from work.
• Interruption of a worker’s routine tasks.

Conclusion

True facilitators are in charge of the best ILT sessions. Successful facilitators take charge of the session by including the participants in the conversation, promoting idea-sharing, and posing open-ended questions. The learning objectives of the session must be satisfied, and this is best done when learners are interested in and actively participating in their own learning.

FAQs