Blended learning

Xpertise combines the best aspects of different learning media into a single seamless training programme – to create the most effective learning experience.

The business need

There’s never been a greater choice of ways for people to learn – but which is the most successful? And, for businesses, part of the learning selection process is not just how stimulating training is – but also how cost-effective it is.

The solution

A blended learning programme combines the best aspects of different learning techniques, into a single training programme. This not only makes the learning more stimulating and effective – it can also make the overall programme more cost-effective.

Our approach

We start by working closely with clients to understand their goals – and also their current investment in learning resources. Understanding the goals of the learning programme ensures that the training will be targeted at defined outcomes. Understanding the current investment in learning resources enables us to make best use of what’s already available and paid for. For instance, many organisations have ongoing investments in e-learning libraries; we can integrate this into a blended learning programme, maximising the investment already made.

We also work to understand budgets and timescales – the framework within which learning must take place. Finally, we will want to assess the current skills of those needing to be trained, using a sophisticated testing tool such as Microsoft Skills Assessment for Organisations.

This information gives us the detail required to not only plan the best training solution – but also to make pragmatic decisions about the amount of time spent training and integrating learning tools which have already been paid for.

We are able to then develop a training programme which combines the most appropriate elements of different learning approaches – into a single programme. For example, we might have some initial lectures, self-paced training or e-learning. We might then use testing to stream different learners into different learning paths. Then we would add in the core classroom training; this is usually tailored to reduce the number of training days, by omitting topics which aren’t required – which also increases the focus and effectiveness of the training. We might also use one-to-one coaching and provide ongoing on-line support.

We can then test the effectiveness of the learning – by using recognised examinations and testing tools such as Microsoft Skills Assessment for Organisations and Metrics That Matter.

The overall effect is to get the best of various training media in a programme, making the learning highly varied and stimulating – but also very cost-effective.