In the previous blog, we learned about the origins of the flipped classroom, what it is and how this approach could be used to enhance eLearning. In this blog, we will explore the benefits of the flipped method in eLearning for all involved: the learner, the training facilitator and the organisation.
To recap, the flipped method is a blended learning approach, which incorporates both technology and face-to-face training in order to maximise the potential for learning. It makes optimal use of time by enabling your team to become familiar with the material before-hand so that consolidation, deeper learning and application of the new skills can take place in the face-to-face training sessions.
Benefits of the flipped method for learners
Let’s learn about five benefits of the flipped method for learners.
1. It maximises learning potential
The flipped method gives learners the best of both worlds; allowing them to learn in their own time via online courses but also in real-time via face-to-face training sessions. This method enables learners to become familiar with the course content in advance, maximising their learning potential during face-to-face training sessions.
2. It is learner-centred
This approach is learner-centred by providing many avenues for learning. It caters for a number of different learner preferences:
- Learners who like to learn socially by interacting with others
- Learners who like practical active learning
- Learners who prefer to digest the material by themselves in their own time
3. It caters for different levels of expertise
The flipped method in eLearning is a flexible training approach that supports each learner and their unique circumstances. The online content can be presented in a number of ways including:
- Interactive activities
- Video
- Text
- Animation
- Podcast/audio
If someone is struggling to grasp the theoretical content, they can research it in their own time before attending the face-to-face sessions. Learners who have a solid grasp of the material can access additional resources and further reading opportunities through the online content. This allows each learner to advance at their own pace and caters for different levels of expertise.
4. It leads to more effective face-to-face training
As the flipped method presents learning content online in advance, learners can become familiar with the core material and as a result they will be more confident to engage with the face-to-face training. Armed with all the relevant prerequisite knowledge, the learners can then use the time more optimally in the face-to-face training, by engaging fully in discussions, carrying out roleplays or other interactive learning activities. The face-to-face training also provides an opportunity to ask questions and clarify any misunderstandings.
5. It makes use of the best approach
The flipped method combines a mix of approaches. One approach will be better suited to certain types of learning activities over others. For example, if learners are required to research a topic, this might be better facilitated online than through a face-to-face training course. On the other hand, the face-to-face training might be more suited to skills practice. The online training may also include a discussion group forum, where learners can support and learn from each other. This promotes other valuable skills, such as team-work, collaboration, communication and problem-solving.
Benefits of the flipped method for the training facilitator
Now, let’s learn about three key benefits of the flipped method for the training facilitator.
1. The flipped method is more time-efficient
The flipped method in eLearning can save the training facilitator time in preparing materials for the roll-out of each course. Initially it may be time-consuming to develop the online content, but once the theory-based content and eLearning materials are developed, they can be rolled out easily for each group. This will leave more time and resources for tailoring the face-to-face training sessions to suit the group.
2. It supports planning for the face-to-face training
With the flipped method, the learners become familiar with the materials in advance of the training session. As a result, the training facilitator can then build on what the learners already know. In theory, it means that everyone in the face-to-face training is starting from roughly the same baseline. This will help the training facilitator to better plan the face-to-face training.
3. It leads to more effective and tailored training
The flipped method may lead to higher quality engagement by the learners. When learners come to the face-to-face sessions already familiar with the material, they are better able to take part in more detailed and relevant discussions and activities. By including a quiz or assessment in the online element, the training facilitator will have a better idea of how well each learner understands the material. This can help tailor and shape each course in response to specific learner needs.
Benefits of the flipped method for the organisation
Finally, let’s learn about four benefits for the organisation.
1. The flipped method reduces costs
There’s little doubt that investment in learning and development (L&D) pays off. But cost is an important factor to consider for every organisation. The flipped method could benefit the organisation financially by reducing the costs involved in traditional training days, such as renting training spaces, travel, catering costs and facilitator.
2. It provides more standardised training
From a compliance perspective, the flipped method will ensure all learners have access to the same standardised online content, reducing the variation that can exist between different training facilitators. Organisations will have more control over the content, and can track and record employee participation and quiz results on the organisation’s learning management system (LMS).
3. It leads to a better workplace culture
Using the flipped method in eLearning gives the learners more agency over their learning. It helps promote a workplace culture where employees feel trusted. It provides training in line with the organisation’s needs but we can also tailor it to specific individual learner requirements. This helps promote a positive workplace culture which is central to employee retention, engagement and productivity.
4. It meets the organisation’s L&D goals
As outlined at the start, the flipped method can be very beneficial to the learners. Accessing course materials online at their own pace and convenience may result in happier, more motivated employees and in turn greater learning results. The time spent during the face-to-face sessions can be utilised more efficiently by bridging the gap between the theory and the practical application of the new knowledge and skills. In this way, it may increase the effectiveness of learning interventions in meeting the organisation’s L&D goals.
The flipped method is a blended-learning approach definitely worth exploring for your next workplace training, as it leads to many benefits for the learners, trainer and organisation.
