Blended learning, educational videos, or online coaching – you are probably already familiar with these and other digital learning methods. But what are the differences between them? The "Classification of Learning Methods" brings clarity and helps you choose the right learning method for your training course:
In the past, we have already reported extensively on the various digital learning methods. Nevertheless, many trainers still find it difficult to classify them: Which methods are particularly individualized? Which require a high level of self-responsibility? And which learning methods can be used universally?
The mmb Institute therefore publishes a graphic every year in which they classify the various digital learning methods. The Classification of Learning Methods was restructured this year: It contains more than 20 different digital learning methods. However, in our experience, not all learning methods are well-suited for training or coaching in professional development.
Therefore, in the following graphic, we have categorized the most important learning methods for training courses into the classification system. This gives you a quick and easy overview:
Comparison of current learning methods // Presentation: blink.it | Based on: mmb Institute 2020
Use the classification to choose the right learning method for your training course:
First, decide whether you want your digital training format to be highly structured or if you want to offer a self-responsible learning process.
In the second step, consider whether your participants should learn as individually as possible or together as a group.
Universal formats such as an online platform or training library are suitable for almost all training courses and topics. They can serve as your foundation for many other methods.
Would you like to learn more about the currently most popular digital learning methods? Then download our free overview of the 6 most popular e-learning methods. In addition to detailed definitions and use cases, you will also discover which methods can be best combined with one another.
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
What digital learning methods are available for training?
The most important digital learning methods include online courses, educational videos, blended learning, online coaching, and learning platforms or training libraries. Each of these formats differs in how highly structured it is, how much individual responsibility learners take on, and whether learning happens more individually or closely together format-wise.
How do I choose the right learning method for my training course?
The choice depends primarily on two questions: Should the learning process be highly structured or rather self-directed? And should participants learn individually or together? Depending on the objective and target audience, appropriate formats can be selected or combined.
What are the benefits of blended learning compared to individual learning methods?
Blended learning combines digital self-study phases with personal support or face-to-face formats. As a result, learners benefit from flexible knowledge acquisition and, at the same time, from exchange, feedback, and practical application. This makes this learning method particularly versatile and effective.
Which learning methods are particularly suitable as a base for training courses?
Universal formats like learning platforms or training libraries are particularly well-suited as a foundation. They offer a central structure for content and can be flexibly combined with other learning methods like videos, coaching, or interactive tasks.
Updated on April 28, 2026
