Corporate training solutions · 7 MIN · 18.11.2024
How to make training modules?
- A 24% higher profit margincan see companies investing in employee training,
comparing to those that not
(The American Society for Training and Development (ASTD) - A 37% increase in productivitycan be achieved in an organization through training
(IBM Training Study)
In this article, we discuss:
What is a training module?
Once employees finish all the modules in a course, they will have a good understanding of an important topic or skill.
That’s what the module looks like (my favourite pancake example):
What training module should include?
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Course Overview: This section briefly introduces the module and explains how it fits into the overall training program. -
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Learning Goals: Here, we clearly outline what you will learn by the end of the module. It is important to accentuate the personal benefits for learners to make the course more valuable and motivate them. -
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Course Materials: This includes various training resources, such as written content, interactive activities, and videos, that form the main part of the module. -
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Activities: These are opportunities for learners to practice and reinforce what they’ve learned throughout the training. -
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Assessments: Short quizzes and activities will help check learners' understanding and retention of the material. -
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Wrap-Up: A summary at the end of the module — the key points that help reinforce learning and recap what the module covered. -
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Extra Resources: This section lists helpful materials, such as guides and case studies, for those who want to learn more about the topic. -
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Feedback Opportunity: This is a chance for learners to share their thoughts about the learning experience, often through surveys, that help improve future training.
Types of training module formats
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1. Online courses
This type of training is familiar to most of us. The online courses can be in the format of videos, articles, slides, and webinars. It’s a relatively cheap and easy-to-delivery option. It is perfectly suitable for information that doesn’t require hands-on practice. For example, you can create an online module with theoretical details followed by a module with offline practice.
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2. Simulation modules
Simulations provide a way for learners to gain practical experience in a safe and controlled environment. It can be online, for example, the training interface simulation of the new program. Or offline, for example, the car crash simulation for paramedics to practice cardiopulmonary resuscitation. This kind of training lets people practice complex tasks safely, just like they would in a real job. It helps them learn without any risk of making mistakes that could lead to dangerous consequences.
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3. Microlearning modules
Microlearning modules are designed to help you learn new information in short, focused sessions, typically no longer than 20 minutes. This approach involves breaking down a larger topic into smaller, manageable pieces. This allows learners to quickly grasp what they need to know without feeling overwhelmed or bored. These modules can function independently, meaning you don’t need to take an entire training course to benefit from them.
They are especially effective for providing quick training on updates to processes or policies and new products. Additionally, microlearning modules are great for practising skills, refreshing knowledge, or serving as introductory materials before diving into more in-depth training.
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4. Mentor-led modules
These training sessions can take place either in person or online, where participants engage with instructors in a real-time setting. The benefit of these modules is live discussions. Students get answers to their questions live and can learn more from the mentor's experience.
This training method is effective for covering various important subjects, such as understanding products and services, learning how to use software and systems, and staying updated on safety rules and regulations.
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5. Role-play modules
One popular type of training activity is a role-play scenario. These exercises can be found in many areas, like schools or therapy sessions, and they are also very helpful in the workplace. They are particularly useful for training people who work in customer service and sales, as they help improve communication skills in a practical way.
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6. Online support tools and helpful tips within apps
These training modules come in different formats, such as flowcharts, checklists, and simple step-by-step guides. They can also be provided through in-app guidance, which helps students learn how to complete various tasks and processes. This training method helps learners understand the topic better, keeps them engaged and boosts their productivity.
This type of training is effective for new employees, as well as for ongoing support and skill development in any industry.
How to create a training module?
Step one: Define the audience
Think about who will learn this module and how. Will they learn it at home or on the bus on the way to work? Knowing your audience's specific needs can help you choose the right type of training.
Step three: Choose the format
Now, knowing the audience and outcomes, you can choose the content format. If your audience usually learns while walking with a dog, you can create an educational podcast. If they need hands-on practice, you can provide knowledge in the form of a simulation module. In this article, you can learn how to make different formats.
Step five: Share the module with learners and collect feedback
It’s time to share a new module with your audience and look at their reaction. Do they like it? Is everything clear? Are there any technical problems? This information helps you improve the training module and gain better results.
FAQ
- Ann ParfenovaLearning experience designerWith 7 years in Learning Experience Design, I’ve crafted 90+ interactive courses that prove learning can be fun! From gamified simulations to educational games, I’m all about making education exciting and engaging. Let’s make learning an adventure!
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