VILT has actually been a popular virtual learning approach for years, gaining popularity in recent months. In this article, you will learn why you should use VILT for varied continuing education in the digital space.
What does VILT mean?
VILT is an approach to digital continuing education that is currently growing significantly. In contrast to e-learning or blended learning, however, VILT is not a closed learning method. Often, VILT is just a part of the overall continuing education strategy and is complemented by other approaches. The acronym VILT stands for Virtual Instructor-Led Training.
The fundamental idea of VILT is that training or education takes place synchronously in a virtual environment. The approach is sometimes also described as a virtual classroom. Traditionally, both the instructor and the participants are at different locations, meeting in a digital space through a web conferencing tool like Zoom. The number of participants in a VILT session depends on the topic and training structure. You can therefore offer one-on-one support or guide a larger group in self-directed learning. A VILT can consist of various components such as discussions and other interactions. These are moderated and managed by the instructor, but the focus is clearly on the participants.
What advantages does VILT have over traditional e-learnings?
At first glance, you might think that VILT does not differ significantly from other e-learnings. But let’s take a closer look:
A traditional e-learning typically consists of a structured online course made up of a diverse mix of media. It usually involves pre-packaged content such as texts, videos, simulations, or quizzes on a specific topic. The course is provided via an LMS or a learning platform. In pure e-learning, there is rarely the opportunity for direct interaction between the instructor and the learners.
In contrast, VILT is a significantly more agile approach. Just like in a live seminar, learning content is provided, and the instructor is directly available for questions. The approach thrives on learners learning independently or self-organizing while being supported by an expert. Interaction is central, not merely the transmission of content or information as in traditional e-learning.
Due to these characteristics, VILT has the following advantages:
VILT maximizes the scalability of continuing education, as digital participation is not limited by geography, allowing any number of learners to be present.
VILT promotes company diversity due to its broader online reach, as learners from international teams can participate in the same course from around the world.
VILT improves the learning outcomes of a course by fostering active learning, which helps the material stick in memory, especially through diverse discussions.
VILT offers greater comfort for learners because it adapts to the various lifestyles of individual learners, providing effective and flexible learning experiences.
VILT supports internal knowledge exchange within a team even after training, as discussions often lead to finding learning partners who engage in long-term exchanges.
That’s why companies should focus on VILT
Virtual Instructor-Led Training is as individual as the requirements of various learners themselves. And precisely for this reason, the approach is particularly well-suited for corporate training. Unlike traditional e-learning approaches, VILT focuses on communication and interaction between instructors and learners. VILT brings learners together in companies, creating effective learning communities. This motivates learners and keeps them engaged.
These three things should be considered when implementing VILT:
Technology: Invest in a high-quality learning platform for your courses
Motivation: Actively involve your employees in the implementation
Framework conditions: Create a suitable learning culture within the company
The learning culture of a company is as individual as the company itself. To implement VILT, you should definitely know this! What is the state of the learning culture in your company? In our free guide "Learning Culture in Companies", we have summarized the five most important leverage points for a good learning culture. Good luck with your VILT!
