E-learning has taken the centerstage and has demonstrated some potent advantages. It is cost-effective, flexible and can be accessed from any part of the world. Many organizations across the globe are adapting e-learning to train their employees but there are some doubts which linger after imparting the training is that whether the training has met its objectives. Now the question arises - was it really effective for the employee development?
An effective e-learning program helps organizations achieve the desired business goals such as bringing in more revenue, reducing employee turnover and rework, meeting customer needs and more. Hence it is vital to assess and measure the effectiveness of every e-learning program.
Now let us try to answer the question.
Applying the acquired skills
It is very important to frame learning outcomes which align with the objectives set for the e-learning program. The training program must help the employees to transfer the skills acquired, to their work. E-learning programs should not just impart knowledge but help employees improve and develop new skills which can be employed in their work area.
Motivating the employees
The training must motivate the employees to learn more and take similar courses in future. It must generate their interest and make learners feel satisfied by the gained knowledge. They should be satisfied after a training program and feel the urge to take their skill beyond learning. They should do their job with satisfaction and excellence.
Learner centric course and content
E-learning programs need to be learner-centric comprising content which can be retained by the employees long after the course is over and should not just aim at providing information. Moreover, the effectiveness of the program can also be measured by looking at how many learners have started the course and completed it. If the number of learners fail to complete the course and tend to leave midway, then the e-learning course might be termed ineffective.
Meeting specific goals
If the e-learning programs achieve the desired business goals then it is deemed to be fruitful. Sometimes a program is targeted at improving the skills of a specific department, and it is considered to be effective if it helps to develop the skills which in turn brings in more profit to the organization.
Cost-effectiveness
ROI is a metric when it comes to measuring e-learning effectiveness. The cost to develop the course can be measured and compared to the result it shows. But the best way to measure the effectiveness of e-learning programs is by using the four Rs proposed by Donald Kirkpatrick – Response, Result, Revision and Review.
Kirkpatrick Model
Do not forget to make your assessment fun and interactive to engage the participants.
Written By : Dr Sanjib Chakraborty