The year of 2020 has changed the face of learning and development, with training providers all over the world forced to move classrooms online to teach, access and collaborate. However, as we move into 2021, and almost a year on from our first lockdown, why are we still faced with the same challenges?

Limited progress through lockdown

The issue with lockdown 1.0 was how unprepared many learning providers were when they had to transform their offering to become fully digital. Hasty decisions were made to pivot quickly; and whilst there have been some successful transitions amongst many providers, many have also rushed into an unplanned solution, which offered no training nor a long-term solution to e-learning, merely just a quick fix.

Similar issues arose with lockdown 2.0 when once again learning was forced to go online. There were solutions and provisions made to the classroom environment meaning many providers didn’t close their doors – another quick fix.

Removing the barriers to online learning

During the midst of lockdown 3.0, many providers are looking for online and blended approaches to help deliver key areas of the curriculum. With the barrier to online learning being removed, more people are becoming accepting of e-learning systems as a longer-term solution. However, selecting the right partner to digitally transform education and training is paramount to the future success of virtual learning.
Whilst this may seem simple, the transition towards online teaching is something that has been overlooked by some. At The Skills Network, we support training providers by embedding high-quality online learning into curriculums, allowing educators to have a smooth transition between classroom-based delivery to online learning.
With access to high quality learning support advisors and expert tutors who provide responsive learning support, training providers can benefit from an accessible, market leading ‘Learning Management System’ (LMS). This system allows individuals to engage in their learning at any time and in any environment, which is so important in today’s setting.

Developing online diagnostic tools to develop individualised plans

Up until recently, many training providers have been diagnosing learners by manually assessing them and using appropriately qualified staff to create an individualised curriculum plan, which can be time consuming for educators. However, at The Skills Network, we have developed an innovative online diagnostic tool, which assesses a learner’s strengths and capabilities to create a unique learning journey, tailored to their exact needs – helping them focus on learning, and not just passing a qualification. When you combine the diagnostic with our new resources to support all levels of functional skills and digital essentials, along with our online tutorial pack (Essentials) it is possible to see how online learning will help during this crisis and beyond

The e-learning solutions available at The Skills Network, which support teaching practitioners concentrate on adding value (rather than having to build the foundations of knowledge) and have been designed following a thorough analysis of the job market and the current skills gap. Whether it’s through adult learning, CPD or apprenticeships, individuals are supported to develop the essential skills for current and future employment opportunities, and to apply their learning straight away.
Finding the right online learning partner

In 2021, organisations should be considering their online strategies in place to support their staff and facilitate processes. Partnering with companies who have been providing online learning for several years, with tried and tested systems, as well as tailored online content and assessment procedures is key.

There are valid and reliable assessment options now open to us through technology; it’s just a question of finding your right online learning partner.

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