The Right Learning Event for the Right Need

Whether reacting to an immediate need to close a skill gap or developing a learning program to rapidly evolve competency, selecting appropriate learning events is critical to meeting requirements efficiently and effectively. The right learning event requires two perspectives: content and format.

Identifying appropriate content seems straight forward. Does the description of the learning event and its outcomes correlate to identified needs? Are prerequisites in line with current capabilities or is additional learning intervention required? Is the quality of content at a level sufficient to impart appropriate knowledge and close the gap? Is the provider proven in the subject field, and have appropriate references?

The question of format is a little more involved. Many learning formats are used routinely to efficiently and cost-effectively meet training requirements. They include:

• Classroom Instruction
• Books
• Knowledge Communities
• Online Instruction - Live and Reusable
• Videos
• Coaching and Mentoring
• Webcasts
• Teleconferencing
• Subject Matter Expert Discussion
• Online Reference
• Peer Discussion

Selecting the right learning format is as important as identifying appropriate content. Identifying a single learning event to meet an immediate need to close a skill gap is often fulfilled by an online event, subject matter expert discussion, or peer discussion. Preparing to master a new process or integrate a new support tool is commonly addressed by a "boot camp" of classroom and online learning events. Learning programs developed to achieve new competency levels typically utilize a blend of many learning formats including classroom, online, and coaching and mentoring. However the need is met, it is important to leverage knowledge within your organization to support and enhance best practices.