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

On 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 resonates 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. For trainers, coaches, consultants – and all who deal with (further) education, however, a second look is worthwhile. Too often, the term learning becomes blurred with similar and newer terms like training or coaching.

The difference: Learning happens within us. Training or coaching is applied from outside. As an educator, you can only indirectly influence the participants' learning process.

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 involved I am as a learner, 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 support 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 content.

Then, they practice the content over an extended period while parallel to their work routine (E-Learning).

Level 1: Lecture (saying)

Level 2: Seminar (explaining)

Level 3: Blended Learning (internalizing)

Optimally promote the learning process with the Blended Learning method

In-person learning + E-Learning = Blended Learning

Significantly promote participants from training sessions more sustainably with Blended Learning! Whether as a company or (independent) trainer – for both cases, we have developed guidelines that help with the first steps in 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 Training and Development? We use both terms almost interchangeably, but as described above, learning and training are different.

What I mean to say is: language is important! As an expert in adult education, you should continually question your own terms and adjust if necessary. Show your participants that they, as LEARNERS, are responsible – and that every training or coaching can only support indirectly.

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