CLASSROOM TRAINING VS ONLINE

LEARNING: WHICH IS RIGHT FOR YOU?

May 31, 2014
Alice McLaughlin
Online Learning
1 Comment on Classroom training vs online learning: Which is right for you?

So, youre trying to put together a funtastic training and

development plan that will upskill your workforce, secure super return on investment, keep
your higher-ups happy and reflect well on your department and company in general (arent
you demanding!).
If youre torn between classroom training and online learning, our super quick 3-point guide
to picking a training programme can help to set you on the path to training and
development stardom and secure you status in your organisation as a Learning Legend!
1. How many people do you need to train? If you have a few employees to train up say,
10 or so in the latest sales techniques or compliance with regulations, a classroom training
programme might work well. You can get it over with in one day, field any questions from
the employees then and there, and send them on their way with a certificate.

On the other hand, if you need to upskill an entire workforce

(or anything over about 20 employees), then classroom training is really not the most
efficient and effective method. Firstly, think of the logistics. If you need to train 2,000 of your
sales staff, how much will the conference hall cost? Over how many days will training have
to spread? How many trainers or workshop leaders will you have to employ? How much
revenue will you lose from all those employees, and how much will it cost you in terms of
travel and food expenses?
I can see you nodding youve seen the difficulty here!
If youve got a lot of employees to train, online learning makes the most sense. You can
auto-enrol all 2,000 or 20, or 200,000 employees onto the eLearning course. They can
take the training online in their own time, at their own speed (whilst keeping a close eye on
their progress, of course). This negates the costs of travel, food, trainers, venues, missed
sales and any other associated costs.

2. Is it one-off training or will

others be required to take it in future? If you can be sure that the training you need to
deliver is unique and one-off, then by all means, give it a go in a classroom setting, bearing

in mind the other factors. But if theres a chance youll need to train others on the same
topics in future say, when you take on new staff or once other employees reach the same
point in their careers then an eLearning module is a great option: it will always be there!
You can simply enrol any new starters on to the course and they can start their training
straight away.

3. Whats your
training budget? You may not realise this, but classroom training is actually more
expensive than scary, technical eLearning. Once you add up all the extra costs associated
with real-world training, itll be obvious that you get more for your money when you take
your training online.
Dont believe us? Find out how to secure return on investment on your training budget but
clicking the button below!

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

SHIFT's eLearning Blog

eLearning vs Classroom TrainingHow Different Are They?

Posted by Karla Gutierrez on Thu, Sep 11, 2014 @ 09:13 AM

inShare74

Just 15 years ago, eLearning was an experimental way of teaching very

technical subjects. Today, educators across all fields use online training to
teach just about anything; it would be difficult to find a school or training
department that does not incorporate eLearning into its programs in some
way.
Unfortunately, learning professionals who are new to eLearning are often
resistant to create online courses, usually due to a lack of knowledge, and
many of those who do dabble in eLearning tend to use the same
pedagogical methods for their online training as their traditional
instruction, even though replicating online the interactions, activities, and
events that happen in the classroom is unreasonable and impractical.
Although online training shares many features with classroom training, it
also has some unique attributes. The role of the instructor also differs. All
these mean that learning and development professionals need to alter
their teaching styles, learn new skills, use different methods, master
design and development tools, and move away from a instructor-centered
methodology to a learner-centered environment.
The following is a list of the main differences between classroom training
and eLearning to help new professionals in the industry get started.

1) The Learning Context

The context in which online learning takes place is very different. In
contrast to conventional classroom learning, online training is an
individual activity even if learners are in a room with others carrying out
the same tasks. Instructors must design courses with this online
environment in mind; for instance, isolation makes it more likely that
students will drop a course but proper motivation tactics and feedback
can reduce this risk. Therefore, personalizing learning, which must include
making the eLearning more human, is one important way to connect
with learners online and avoid feelings of isolation.
In addition, the online medium creates a unique environment for teaching
and learning: most importantly, the shifting time and pavoidlace of
educational interactions. Deadlines are essential to avoid students falling
behind.

2) Types of Media
Traditional teaching is limited to words and pictures, whereas with online
training instructors have the opportunity to use a variety of media to tell
stories, engage learners, and establish a relationship with students. For
instance, audio and video are particularly useful for adding a human touch
to a course. However, it is important to use media appropriately
content should always add value to the course and offer learners an
experience they cannot get elsewhere.
Getting the visible message right is very as important in eLearning, if not
more, than the instructional design and learning theory. Leaving it to
chance isnt wise. The elements of visible language in eLearning design include:

Layout of the eLearning course features;

Typography, including font styles and sizes;

The color and texture of various elements;

Signs, icons, symbols and pictures in the course;

Animation or video;

And the sequencing of features that result in storytelling.

These rules help achieve that purpose:

Illustrations and animations can both improve learning, although neither is

inherently more productive than the other.

Audio in the form of narration can enhance learning, but background

music can be distracting.

Words and graphics for purely aesthetic reasons detract from learning.
Economize on features by only using as many elements as you need and
eliminate extras, which distract learners. And ensure the message is
communicated clearly by making it visually readable.

3) Social Dynamics
One of the main focuses on online learning is communication. Unlike in a
traditional environment, interactions with other students and the
instructor are only possible through discussion boards, chat, bulletin
boards, and emails in online learning. Communication through these
means is essential for effective eLearning because courses lack the faceto-face characteristics that allow students to form social bonds in
classroom training.
To be successful, therefore, the instructor needs to be socially present,
provide clear instructions as to how students should participate in
discussions, and be ready to intervene if discussions are inappropriate or
not occurring. This will help an online class form a community and avoid
turning learning into an individual process.
For further information on social dynamics in eLearning environments, read this article: 3
Types Of Interactions You Should Be Sustaining in eLearning

4) Time
One minute of classroom time does not equal one minute of online
training. The same subject covered by an eLearning course typically takes

between 25 and 60 percent of the hours needed for traditional learning

due to a lack of logistics and more condensed modules.
However, courses almost always span over a longer period of time; for
instance, whereas a traditional course with 16 hours of content may cover
two days of classes, an eLearning course may run for two hours a day
over one week. eLearning developers should remember that it is always
best to chunk content into smaller parts three 90-minute classes are
better than a single 4.5 hour continuous session.
Bite-sized eLearning courses, unlike the traditional classroom training
sessions, focus on meeting the needs of modern learners. It enables them
to access small chunks of information at their fingertips, anytime and
anywhere. No more lengthy lectures. And no more rigid schedules. People
can now learn on their spare time and learn only what they're interested
in.

5) Mediums
Instructors cannot simply transfer material from classroom settings to the
Internet. Although objectives may be the same, delivery and interactions
are very different. Content needs adapting for an online environment
through a new agenda, flow, visuals, and activities. Adapting content for
the online environment also gives eLearning developers the chance to
reexamine the design of their courses and reconsider curriculum
strategies.
Recommended article: The DIY Guide to Converting Existing Content
into an eLearning Course

6) Written Content
Writing for the web is a different skill from creating material for classroom
instruction. Developers should bear in mind that users typically scan
pages, and they can accommodate for this by using punchy headlines,
bold or highlighted text, subheadings, lists, and chunking content into
short paragraphs. The following tips can help to create effective written
content:

Tone. As learners rely on the written word in online training, it is important

for instructors to ensure they get their meaning across.

Clarity. Content must be as clear and concise as possible; it is impractical

to expect the instructor to clarify instructions. One of the best ways to test for
clarity is to read aloud and listen to the flow. Even better, instructors can read
content to another person.

Brevity. Content should be as concise as possible to avoid important points

becoming lost in the text.

Avoid tangents to avoid wasting learners time.

7) New Language
Trainers need to become familiar with a range of online tools and
infrastructures including Learning Management Systems and Content
Management Systems.
Also they need to become familiar with these eLearning design
terminology.
Here are also some of the commonly used eLearning vocabulary every
industry professional new to eLearning should know.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Advantages
Sharing of ideas

Online learning enables each student to view another student's answers and learn through the
exposure to different perspectives through tools like Blackboard's Discussion Board and
Chat. This benefits students because they can combine new opinions with their own, and
develop a solid foundation for learning. Research supports that "as learners become aware of
the variations in interpretation and construction of meaning among a range of people [they]
construct an individual meaning."
Instructors accessibility

Online learning benefits students by providing additional layer of instructor accessibility.

Students in courses that are supplemented by products like Blackboard no longer have to

worry if they cannot make an instructor's regular office hours, as they still have the ability to
submit inquiries via e-mail at any time. This is good for the instructor too, as they can
respond at his/her convenience instead of being tied to a desk or office. This is particularly
helpful when a students schedule conflicts with office hours or if a question arises at the spur
of the moment.
Enabling student-centered teaching approaches

Every student has a unique learning style. Some are visual learners while others learn better
when they "learn by doing." Online learning environments permit the instructor to build one
course, yet implement a variety of resources, so students can utilize materials in whichever
way works best for them.
Providing 24/7 accessibility to course materials

Some students work best in the morning, some in the evening. Some students commute to
campus and others take night classes. Scheduling time for homework and group projects can
be difficult depending on each student's course, job, and personal responsibilities. When
course content and activities are provided online, students no longer need to worry about
accessing course materials. Students can complete assignments during their most productive
times.
Adds pedagogical benefits

Online learning features also have pedagogical benefits. From the student viewpoint, frequent
assessment provides concept reinforcement and increases motivation. Instructors can post
practice exams and end-of-chapter reviews without worrying about finding the time and
resources to analyze results. Students can access these assessments at any time, privately and
in the comfort of their own home. Since grading is computerized, students receive immediate
feedback. This may also help students who suffer from test anxiety; allowing students to relax
and minimize embarrassment for those that do poorly.

Helpful for instructors

Online Learning also helps instructors save time as they can use several useful features. For
example, when the Quiz/Survey generator is used to deliver tests, all the grading and analysis
is automated. Time previously spent correcting, formulating statistical deviations, and
analyzing specific questions can be used for other things. Even student records can be
exported directly into spreadsheets for turnover to the registrar.
Disadvantages
Costly to Produce

E-learning costs more to develop due to the advanced technology needed to run it, especially
if visually rich content is used.
New Skills Needed

It requires the learner to obtain new skills to achieve success; however, some
users may find technology not only to be intimidating and overwhelming, but
also confusing or frustrating. This problem is evident in older users such as
Generation X more than it is in Generation Y, younger consumers. Although some
learners may prefer e-learning to classroom learning, they may find the
resources they need to be out of reach.
Affordability

Not everyone is able to afford the technology needed (computer, software, and hardware) to
make e-learning work.
Minimal Social Interaction

The main problem associated with e-learning is the lack of social integration. In classroom
setting there is formal and informal face-to-face interaction as well as cultural interactions.
Without this, users may become more secluded in society. Finally, the learner must take on a
greater responsibility and self-discipline to keep up with the learning schedule.

Classroom Learning
How It Works

Classroom Learning requires a number of students to be both active listeners and participants
in the learning environment. A teacher is present; the role of the teacher is to educate the
students on various subjects and life skills. In primary schools, one teacher is often present
for the duration of the day. Once a student rises to higher levels such as secondary school and

post-secondary school, teachers specialize in one subject and students experience different
teachers for each course they take. Classroom learning allows for many different types of
learning, such as, lectures, debates, labs, tutorials, and question/response discussions.
Who Uses It

Classroom learning is for all those that wish to be active participators and learn life
experiences such as group work and learning. Unless parents choose electronic or home
based schooling, primary to secondary schooling is all set in traditional classroom learning
that involves teachers and various classmates. Post-secondary institutions also offer a variety
of classes that can be taken in the traditional classroom setting, however, these often involve
lectures, some tutorials, and certain classes require labs.
Advantages
Exchange of Ideas

Classroom learning provides interactive classroom setting that promotes the open exchange
of ideas. Having numerous students learning in the same classroom has the added benefit of
allowing students to exchange ideas and questions with one another providing another
valuable learning medium that online environments cannot replicate. First-hand interaction
with the educating professor also allows for ideas to be exchanged freely and without any
communication barriers.
Development of Skills

In a classroom, the student not only develops his or her technical skills but can also develop
presentation skills. There is interaction with people with different mind sets and a student can
gain versatility.
Student-Teacher Interaction

In a class room, students can instantly clear their doubt with the teacher. The teacher can
continually observe students for clues about their level of comprehension, probe their
understanding, and respond to difficulties with a wide range of strategies. The teacher can
engage the students in an endless variety of individualized and cooperative learning activities.
The teacher can attend to student motivation and work to maintain or deepen interest and
enthusiasm. Through his or her physical presence, the teacher can instil confidence and spark

insight. Finally, by the instructor sharing his/her experiences, students can build upon their
own knowledge and skills.
Socialization

Classroom learning promotes two levels of socialization among students via group
discussions, team projects, and peer evaluation and between students and professionals via
guest lectures, field trips, etc. Traditional classroom teaching provides students with the
opportunity to have real social interaction with one another. This interaction in turn allows for
the students to help one another in terms of academics or in terms of personal issues.
Disadvantages
Classroom Sizes

Since class sizes are usually fairly large and there is only one instructor, passive learning may
take place. When shy students feel a lack of confidence, they often do not respond to
questions they may have the answer to. The more vocal students might dominate the mass of
classroom discussion, also forcing shy students to have problems grasping higher order
learning skills and critical thinking.
Student-Teacher Ratio

Because there is only one instructor, it is difficult for them to isolate each childs potential
learning deficiency and, in turn, provide close attention to fixing the problem.
Accessibility

Schools and other forms of educational buildings are only found in certain areas and open
during certain times. For some, this may be an inconvenience.

Conclusion

E-learning has been around for longer than most would realize, though it has just recently
become a more popular competitor with traditional classroom learning. Although there are
many advantages and disadvantages for both e-learning and classroom learning, the main
deciding factor for the use of either is each individuals personal learning style. For some, a
flexible schedule, ability to work through problems on their own, and personal motivation

seems desirable. E-learning would definitely be suitable for this particular individual.
However, if someone prefers working in groups and interacting with other people on a
regular basis, classroom learning might have a stronger appeal. Overall, the finishing product
is a higher education and a more confident self.

Which is Best Classroom vs Online

Training?
by Brother Andrew | Nov 18, 2009 | eLearning, Featured, Instructional Design Resources |
No Comments
eLearning is better than classroom training!
OkIm just being sarcastic. eLearning is actually just different than classroom training. They
both have their pros and cons. I want to list a few areas that are positive pros for
eLearning.
Geography
At times you need to train people that are dispersed geographically. They may be in various
buildings or working from home. You could send a trainer out to each area or you could
have participants come to a central location. There would be considerable travel and time
involved.
Online training could help. There would be no need for travel and each participant could
save quite a bit of time and take the training in the office/home.
Trainer Resources and Scale
There are times when you have a big system roll-out or maybe even a company merger
situation. When large roll-outs occur, do you have enough training resources? Do you have
enough time to put a lot of participants through a classroom experience? Do you have
trainers who are up-to-speed on the content?
In these situations online training may be able to supplement and/or replace classroom
instruction. Online training could help take the load off classroom crowding. These courses
can also go out to many users at the same time.

Maintenance
There are certain courses that seem to always be changing. The system is constantly being
updated, the policies keep changing, and the product details are a moving target. How will
these changes be handled? How will you update material? How will the trainers get the new
knowledge? Will you need to retrain those who previously attended the course?
Online content can be changed once from one location. There is no need to get trainers upto-speed and no need to reprint materials. You could also quickly create a recent changes
course to send out to previous attendees.
Facilities
Training facilities are expensive. You may need computer labs, projectors, space,
whiteboards, supplies, admins, and more. You also many need multiple building locations.
With online content the user just needs a computer. Now to be fair, there are some
eLearning costs that we could consider as facility. For example, you need development
software and possibly at learning management system (LMS) to launch and track the
courses.
Consistency
There are amazing trainers in the world but they each have their own way to training and
they dont say the exact same this each time. Even trainers from the same company may be
teaching different topics. Consistency is a concern with classroom content. If your content
must be the same each time, then eLearning is a good choice. The course content and
delivery is exactly the same each time.
Does the content and delivery need to be the same each time? Does the content need to be
customized for different audiences?
Learning Styles
People learn in many different ways. Some like reading, others listening, and others
watching. An online course can offer many different ways of learning. Images, audio, text,
animation, case studies, games, etc. can engage learners.
As I said at the beginning of this post, classroom and online training both have their pros
and cons. Some content seems to lend itself more towards one or the other. Do your
research and choose the method that is best for your project/organization. (or maybe even
use both)

What other benefits can you think of? Leave a comment.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
E-learning or Classroom Which Is Better?
Written By Mandal Mohan Rao

The effectiveness of classroom and eLearning often becomes an issue of debate. Can we say
definitely which is more effective? While one (classroom) offers real time interaction with an
instructor, other (eLearning) allows learning at ones own pace in a flexible manner! In such a
case, how can you decide which method you need to adopt for effectively and efficiently
impart knowledge and skills to learners?
These are a few points that can help you to see both classroom and eLearning more closely so
that you choose accordingly in context of your requirement.
Nature of both modalities
The one main difference between these training methodologies is that classroom training
allows learners to personally interact with instructors and other learners in live environment,
whereas learners have to depend on electronic media to interact with the course in eLearning.
There is always somebody in classroom to motive and access the performance of learners in

classroom, whereas learners are required to be self-driven and a bit self-disciplined to really
benefit from eLearning course.
The one main difference between classroom training and eLearning -is that classroom
training allows learners to personally interact with instructors and other learners in a live
environment, whereas learners have to depend on electronic media to interact with the course
in eLearning. There is always somebody in a classroom to motive and assess the performance
of learners in a classroom, whereas learners are required to be self-driven and a bit selfdisciplined to really benefit from an eLearning course.
Training requirement
When it comes to only providing information with respect to make learners understand the
concepts better, eLearning is definitely a better choice in comparison to classroom training.
Presenting huge information in classroom to teach basics of any subject in todays fast paced
working environments cannot be said as a preferable choice, when you can easily leverage
the benefit of eLearning in the form of eBooks, online manuals, Online handbooks, audio and
training videos to transmit huge information. In addition, for communicating about values
and vision throughout an organization or training people on change management, eLearning
can be very effective. It can also ensure a consistent learning experience for learners.
Learners Requirements

If eLearning courses are developed on the basis of sound instructional designing strategies
and adhere to adult learning principles as well, they can be highly beneficial and engaging for
the adult learners. These adult learners, who are experienced, self-directed and expected to be
busy in their lives (playing multiple roles in lives), like to learn in order to just enhance their
present performance in doing some work/task. They are more likely to go after such a course
which can allow them to experiment, practice, perform, and acquire required skills. Adults
learn to get their existing performance problem solved. Another factor with adult learners is
they like to take time and learn at their own pace, which can become possible in the case of
online training module.
In this way, eLearning courses, which are usually learner centric, can be very useful for these
adult learners. The well-chunked, need to know content along with the complimentary reallife interactive scenarios, simulations, problem solving games, stories, case studies etc., in
eLearning courses can highly engage them more than classroom training which is mainly
focused on presentation of lot more information, including basics and least allows for
interacting with course. However, for learners who dont find it comfortable with technology
or tend to lose interest in a self-paced, self-driven eLearning course, classroom can be a better
option.
Cost benefits

Coming to the cost benefits, various research reports show eLearning as more cost effective
than to classroom training. Corporates save about 50% to 70% on training, when they replace
instructor led training with eLearning, due to reduced or eliminated travel costs and more
targeted training (IOMA 2002). Unlike classroom training which requires the presence of
trainers each and every time the course is supposed to be delivered, eLearning can be
developed once and used multiple times for the training requirements. Furthermore, it is now
very easy to develop eLearning course in quick time following the advent of authoring tools
(a 30 minute course can be developed in about 3-4 weeks of time by using authoring tools
like Lectora, Articulate etc.). In this way, eLearning development costs are significantly less
compared to classroom training.
Tracking of learners progress
This is one more aspect where eLearning surpasses classroom training. The tracking of
learners progress in the training program is usually done manually in classroom situation,
which may sometimes result in incorrect recording of data. The process of assessing learners
progress in classroom also consumes huge time and manpower. On the other hand, eLearning
courses can be delivered on the Learning Management Systems (LMSs), a software platform,
for tracking and monitoring of learners progress automatically in the course in an efficient
manner.
Both classroom and eLearning methodologies are here to empower learners with knowledge
and skills. Both have their advantages and limitations. It depends on ones requirement and
approach towards learning. What would you like to say about this? Please do share your view.
We would really appreciate your response.

Topics: Classroom Training, eLearning Benefits, eLearning Course, instructional designing

strategies, training methodologies
- See more at: http://blog.commlabindia.com/elearning-design/elearning-classroomtraining#sthash.svdivPMB.dpuf

E-Learning Benefits and ROI Comparison of E-Learning vs. Traditional Training

Send to a Colleague

Retweet

Text Size

Print

Background
SyberWorks, Inc. (www.syberworks.com) is a leader in the custom e-Learning Solutions and
Learning Management System industry for Fortune 1000 corporations, higher education, and
other industries. Located in Waltham, Massachusetts, the company serves the expanding 11
Billion dollar e-Learning segment (1).
Since 1995, SyberWorks has developed and delivered unique and economical solutions to
create, manage, measure, and improve e-Learning programs at companies and organizations
in the United States, Canada, Europe, and the world.

Author's Biography
Dave Boggs is the founder and CEO of SyberWorks. He has been involved with computerbased and web-based training for over twelve years. He is responsible for directing the
company's overall business strategy and overseeing its financial growth and prosperity. Dave
has positioned the company to provide customizable solutions to its customers. These
solutions often meld performance support, job aids, reference information, and other tools
with e-Learning in one integrated site to increase the productivity of key target audiences
such as sales, distribution, and field service.
Before founding SyberWorks, Dave was the VP of Sales and Business Development for
Relational Courseware. Dave holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Physics from Union
College in Schenectady, NY and an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management at
Northwestern University in Evanston, IL.

White Paper Focus

In most cases, the biggest quandary an organization must solve is to put together a rational,
i.e., a cost justified, business case why they should spend capital to invest in a learning
management system. The focus of this white paper will outline the benefits of web-based
training along with a practical framework for developing ROI when looking at the cost of
traditional training methods verses e-Learning.

The Benefits of E-Learning

Some of the benefits of realized by corporations and institutions that use web-based training
as an integral facet of their organization's training function are listed below:
Strategic Advantages

Creating a Global Workforce Web-based training is a powerful instrument for

developing a global labor force. Web-based training can deliver custom, sophisticated
instruction to employees all around the planet. (2)
Reacting to Abbreviated Product Development Cycles Companies that create today's
best of breed products and services are now introducing their wares more quickly into the
marketplace. The use of web-based learning management systems allows your organization's

training function to keep pace with the market. Web-based training can be used to provide the
needed instruction without taking workers away from their daily responsibilities. (3)
Managing Flat Organizations Down and right sized organizations have now become the
norm in today's business landscape. As a result, line managers have multiple responsibilities
and are severely time impoverished. E-Learning can help by delivering training for those
areas which line managers are normally responsible, such as desktop application training and
product training. They are then freed up to tackle other pressing priorities in their workday.
(4)
Adjusting to Employee Wants and Needs Economic and demographic shifts has fueled
the growth of telecommuting, virtual offices, job-sharing, and flextime. Delivering training
via the Internet overcomes the obstacles imposed by the exigencies of a transient workforce.
(5)
Facilitating a Contingent Labor Force Contingent workers, such as temporaries,
consultants, retirees who work part-time, the self-employed has increased dramatically over
the last decade. Companies and organizations have become more reliant on contingent
workforces to deal with peak labor demands. E-Learning solutions and web-based learning
management systems are invaluable tools to train and manage this unique labor force. (6)
Retaining Valued Workers Education has become a critical lynch pin in a company's or
organization's worker benefits portfolio. Workers in today's new economy are not as afraid to
move to a new position if they feel their interests and career welfare are better provided for in
a different environment. Web-based training programs that offer certifications, college and
graduate school education, and other important job skills become powerful incentives for an
employee to stay. (7)
Increasing Productivity and Profitability E-learning programs and training increase
employee knowledge and skill levels. As they become better at their jobs, they sell more
products, reduce waste, are more productive and efficient. An educated, well-trained
workforce is the main driver to profitability for today's businesses. (8)
Tactical Advantages

Flexibility to Learn Anytime, Anywhere Learners can access courses and content from
their office, home, or hotel room from any spot around the globe. (9)
Reduce Travel and Related Costs Save on hotels; airfare, meals, and other travel
expenses associate with traditional onsite training. (10)
Tools for Tracking, Updating, and Managing Training Web-based learning
management systems make it easy to track, update, and manage online learners. Learning
management systems facilitate, reporting, succession planning, and workforce development
from one, centralized, web-based source. (11)

Affordable Per-Student Costs Almost every computer today can be set up with a modem
and free browser software with which to access the Internet, so set up costs are relatively low.
(12)
Just-in-Time Learning Online learners can take training just before they need it rather
than enrolling in a program months before they need the training or refresher class. (13)
Making Updates Easy Web-based training can be updated quickly and easily, so there is
no time lag or extra reprinting cost. (14)
Administer Competency and Compliance Management Multiple spreadsheets across
various managers' computers make competency management and compliance management a
tedious and time consuming task. A centralized, web-based learning management system
aggregates all the data into one location were all the necessary managers can access the
information when they need it. (15)
Training Delivery Advantages

Consistent Delivery Web-based training is delivered uniformly in a consistent

framework, which increases understanding and absorption of the material. (16)
Learning Object Architecture Supports on Demand; Personalized Learning Webbased training is designed and developed so content can be chunked into discrete knowledge
objects to provide greater flexibility. Students can access these objects through pre-set
learning paths, use skills assessments to create individualized study plans, or use search
engines to locate exact topics. (17)
Interactive Content, Graphics, and Animations Interactive content, graphics, and
animations make lessons standout and help imprint the material on the student's mind. (18)
Customized Material Content can be customized to meet the training objectives of a
specific program quickly and easily. (19)
Self-Paced Programs Students can learn at a pace that works for their individual learning
style and life circumstances. (20)
Infrastructure Advantages

Leverage Existing Infrastructure Web-based training makes use of already existing

infrastructure such as computers, servers, intranets, etc. There is no addition outlay for
hardware or capitol assets. (21)
Controllable and Secure Access Web-based learning management systems can be easily
configured to secure and monitor access. (22)

Private Networks and Secure Server Installation Web-based learning management

systems can have greater security because they can be installed on private networks and
secure servers. (23)
Linking with other Training Systems E-learning programs can link with other human
resource development systems or training systems. (24)
ROI Comparison of Traditional Training vs. E-Learning (25)

Our ROI comparison of traditional training vs. e-learning must begin with some constructs:
Classroom (traditional custom training)

Traditional instruction may be developed in-house or outsourced to training development

consultants.
Determination by Hour

Reference resources state that the typical development costs for a 40-hour training session
would be:
40 Hours Training X $4,000 Development Cost/Hour =$160,000
Using a Training Manual as Criteria

A problem with determining the development of training by length of class is that often
trainers will either cram in too much or else pad the time allotted for the training. 40 hours in
class may be too little for the amount of material to be covered. It may also be too much time,
if there is an insufficient amount of content.
If the training development is done in-house, it is better to consider the cost of developing a
good training manual that will cover the subject matter and provide necessary exercises for
the students. This would include a trainer's manual that would guide the trainer through
demonstrations and such.
A generous estimate of 5 man-hours per manual page would result in 1000 man-hours for a
200 page manual, which could be covered in 40 hours. At a burdened rate of $60/hour, the inhouse development cost would be:
$60/hour development cost X 1000 hours = $60,000
If an outside consulting firm did the job, it would cost:
$120/hour X 1000 hours =$120,000
E-Learning (custom training)

The cost of developing e-learning can be more expensive. This is especially true in
developing CBT with video and audio. Using multimedia in web-based training can also
drive up the cost.

Determined by Hour

Since e-learning takes less time than classroom training, a 40 hour class is usually completed
in 25 hours with e-learning. Reference resources state that the typical cost for a high-end elearning module would be:
25 Hours Training X $16,000 Development Cost/Hour = $400,000
Determined by Page

Using the measurement of an assumed time it takes for the user to complete the training is not
an sound metric to represent e-Learning. E-Learning/web-based training is self-paced, so the
amount of time required varies. A better way to get at this problem is to figure out how many
pages or screens are required to complete the training module.
A good way to develop a fair and representative numbers for e-learning is to start with the
training manual concept. This is logical approach because more often than not, e-learning is
not created from scratch, but from a content source point, say a training manual. If e-learning
is started from scratch, then a form of a training manual is created that may include wire
frames, scripts, and a story board, during the instructional design process.
Factors in determining the cost per e-learning page or screen include, writing the content,
designing the page and adding illustrations, and producing multimedia effects if used.

Content and Graphics-A generous rule of thumb for writing the content
and adding graphics is 3 to 5 days per page. Simple pages can take less
than an hour, if the writer knows the subject matter.

Audio and Video-Audio and video are still measured in time, with video
costing about $35,000 an hour.

Savings

In determining the ROI for e-learning, you need to factor in the savings due to reduction in
time spent on training.
Reduction in Time Spent on Training

Typically, the time a worker must spend being trained is reduced by about 40% using elearning. This metric is cited in various studies comparing traditional classroom instruction to
equivalent CBT instruction at Xerox, IBM and Federal Express.
Improved Performance

As mentioned earlier, our collective experience with deployment of good CBT and WBT is
that it is not only faster than classroom training (and nearly always cheaper over 2-3
years), it is also better. People learn better with e-learning. They remember what they learn
more accurately and longer (retention) and they are better able to use what they learn to
improve their performance (transfer). Across many different studies and reports from the
military, education and industry show 15-25% increases in learning achievement.

Example of ROI Calculations

Assuming a traditional classroom training plan that includes 500 trainees who each
experience a week of training, travel for half of them (250 employees), the time constraint of
a 3 month roll-out (5 trainers, 10 locations)-all compared to an equivalent eLearning scenario
using very conservative assumptions, including an opportunity cost rate of $400 per day.
Classroom Training

E-learning

Wages of Trainees
($20/hr, burdened)

$ 400,000

$ 240,000

Travel Costs
(50% of people traveling)

$ 250,000

$ ----------

Trainer Wages

$ 47,500

$ 11,400

Trainer Travel

$ 20,000

$ ----------

Development Costs
(custom training)

$ 160,000

$ 400,000

Delivery Systems
(1st year amortized)

$ ---------

$ 35,000

Totals

$877,500

$686,400

These figures indicate that the e-learning approach, given conservative assumptions, saves
approximately 20% in the first year of implementation. In the second and later years when
development costs are not a factor for this course, the savings for eLearning grows to nearly
50%. In addition, the CBT or WBT can be rolled out in half the time, once developed.

In conclusion
The return-on-investment for eLearning can be 50%-60% greater than for traditional training,
which itself can have a 4x ROI, if done properly.
(1)2003 e-Learning Survey, Taylor Nelson Sofres plc, London, United Kingdom, 2003.
(2) To (8) Web Based Training, 2nd Edition, by Margaret Driscoll, Wiley, John & Sons,
Copyright 2002, p. 6-7.
(9) Using the Web for Learning: Advantages and Disadvantages by Kevin Kruse, ELearning Guru.com, Copyright 2004.
(10) Performance Improvements through Web-Based Training by Anne Kitchen and Jim
Ryan, AMEC.com, Copyright 2004.

(11) Using the Web for Learning: Advantages and Disadvantages by Kevin Kruse, ELearning Guru.com, Copyright 2004.
(12) Using the Web for Learning: Advantages and Disadvantages by Kevin Kruse, ELearning Guru.com, Copyright 2004.
(13) Web Based Training, 2nd Edition, by Margaret Driscoll, Wiley, John & Sons, Copyright
2002, p. 8.
(14) Web Based Training, 2nd Edition, by Margaret Driscoll, Wiley, John & Sons, Copyright
2002, p. 9.
(15) Performance Improvements through Web-Based Training by Anne Kitchen and Jim
Ryan, AMEC.com, Copyright 2004.
(16) Performance Improvements through Web-Based Training by Anne Kitchen and Jim
Ryan, AMEC.com, Copyright 2004.
(17) Using the Web for Learning: Advantages and Disadvantages by Kevin Kruse, ELearning Guru.com, Copyright 2004.
(18) Performance Improvements through Web-Based Training by Anne Kitchen and Jim
Ryan, AMEC.com, Copyright 2004.
(19) Performance Improvements through Web-Based Training by Anne Kitchen and Jim
Ryan, AMEC.com, Copyright 2004.
(20) Performance Improvements through Web-Based Training by Anne Kitchen and Jim
Ryan, AMEC.com, Copyright 2004.
(21) Web Based Training, 2nd Edition, by Margaret Driscoll, Wiley, John & Sons, Copyright
2002, p. 8.
(22) Return-on-Investment (ROI) from E-Learning, CBT and WBT by Ron Kurtus, Kurtus
Technologies and The School for Champions www.school-forchampions.com/elearning/roi.htm, Copyright 2004