What distinguishes learning from training for you? In this article, we will examine both terms more closely and explain how experts in further education can optimally support the learning process.

The Concept of "Learning"

To understand a term correctly, it often helps to look at its origin: "Learning" comes from the Gothic "I know" (lais) and the Indo-European "to go" (lis): Here, it already implies that learning is a process of acquiring knowledge.

Some terms change over time, but this meaning of learning is still relevant today. And for many, it's not a word they think about for long. However, for trainers, coaches, consultants – and anyone involved in (further) education, it is worth taking a second look. Too often, the term learning blends with similar and newer terms like training or coaching.

The Difference: Learning happens within us. Training or coaching is applied from outside. As a further educator, you can only indirectly influence the learning process of the participants.

How Trainers Can Influence Learning

Tell me – I will forget! Explain it to me – I will remember! Let me do it myself – I will understand. (Confucius)

This quote from Confucius wonderfully expresses: The more I, as a learner, am involved myself, the stronger the learning process. As a trainer, you can provide support:

• Promote learning

• Simplify learning

• Motivate to learn

• etc.

Specifically, this means: To enable learning as a process, you should accompany the participants in the long term as a trainer or coach. A seminar is better than a lecture and a multi-week training is better than a seminar.

For multi-week training, the Blended Learning method is the most sustainable: In a few in-person events (seminars), the participant learns new things.

Afterwards, they practice the content over a longer period and alongside their work routine (E-Learning).

Level 1: Lecture (to say)

Level 2: Seminar (to explain)

Level 3: Blended Learning (to internalize)

Optimally Promoting the Learning Process with the Blended Learning Method

In-person learning + E-Learning = Blended Learning

Support participants from training much more sustainably with Blended Learning!

Department of "Learning and Development"?

A final note on the topic of "Training vs. Learning": Perhaps you work in a department called Learning and Development? Or rather Training and Development? We use both terms almost interchangeably, yet as described above, learning and training are different.

What I mean is: Language is important! As an expert in further education, you should constantly question your own terms and possibly adjust them. Show your participants that they, as LEARNERS, are responsible themselves – and that every training or coaching can only indirectly support this.

Confucius reinterpreted: Only those who take action and practice can learn sustainably.