The classic vocational training and apprenticeship can also benefit from new forms of learning. The most important goal in training is acquiring competencies, yet far too often, learning is focused solely on passing exams. This means that what has been learned cannot be applied in various, complex, and unpredictable situations. A competence-oriented training strategy with online support can help here.
This does not happen overnight, but trainers can accompany and support these learning and development processes. The personal 1-to-1 support between the trainer and the apprentice is of great significance here. However, this support is very time-consuming. Our suggestion: build on what is already in place. The trainer can, for example, stay in contact with the apprentices via an online platform, even if he is not directly on site. As he knows the training processes, he can provide his support at crucial times.
We are not alone in this opinion: The professional magazine wir Ausbilder recently picked up our approach and published it in the fifth issue of the year.
The core message: Smartphones, tablets, and laptops are part of the everyday tools of young adults. Help with school assignments is typically sought on the internet. Online support during training must connect to these points. However, as the apprentices do not only work with smartphones, the online platform should also be accessible on desktops.
A web app meets these demands, as the application can be accessed in any web browser. Whether via desktop PC, while working on tasks on a laptop, or on the go in the streetcar on a smartphone. This way, the trainer can support their apprentices in various ways, for instance, for exam preparation. He can accompany them in creating a project or other assignments. He can ask the apprentices quiz questions, allowing them to check their knowledge and adjust their exam preparations accordingly. Conversely, apprentices can ask follow-up questions through the platform or exchange information about the subject matter amongst themselves. Learning in small units is much more meaningful and effective than cramming large amounts of material in a short time. Frequent repetitions are often essential for the long-term retention of new information.
Every company plans events for apprentices. However, these events often lack a framework. With online support, a boring trade fair visit can become a learning experience with video shooting. For example, the apprentices are tasked with interviewing an employee of the company before the event. The results are then shared online with the rest of the group. Media competence is best learned when media is produced independently. Additionally, these self-produced contents (engl. "user-generated content") present an authentic counterpoint to the company's marketing efforts.
Are you also a trainer or do you have great ideas where online support would also be beneficial? Then just write to us!
