VILT has actually been a popular virtual learning approach for years and has become increasingly popular in recent months. In this article, you will find out why you should use VILT for varied further training in the digital space.
What does VILT mean?
VILT is an approach to digital training that is currently growing particularly strongly. In contrast to e-learning or blended learning, however, VILT is not a self-contained learning method. Often VILT is only a part of the overall training strategy and is supplemented with other approaches. The acronym VILT stands for Virtual Instructor-Led Training.
The basic idea behind VILT is that training or instruction 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 in different locations and meet in a digital room via a web conferencing tool such as Zoom. How many participants take part in a VILT depends on the topic and the training structure. You can therefore offer 1:1 support or guide a larger group during independent learning. A VILT can consist of various components such as discussions and other interactions. These are moderated and controlled by the instructor, but the focus is clearly on the participants.
What advantages does VILT have over traditional e-learnings?
At first glance, you probably think that VILT isn't much different from other e-learnings. But let's take a closer look:
A classic e-learning typically consists of a structured online course made up of a diverse media mix. Usually, this involves pre-made content such as texts, videos, simulations, or quizzes on a very specific topic. The course is provided via an LMS or a learning platform. In pure e-learning, there is therefore rarely the opportunity for direct interaction between the instructor and the learners.
In contrast, VILT is a much more agile approach. As in a live seminar, learning content is provided and the instructor is directly available for questions. The approach thrives on learners studying independently or in a self-organized manner while being accompanied by an expert. The focus is on interaction and not on the mere transfer of content or information as in classic e-learning.
Due to these properties, VILT has the following advantages:
VILT maximizes the scalability of training, as digital participation is not limited by space, allowing any number of learners to be present.
VILT promotes corporate diversity due to its wider reach online, as learners worldwide can participate in the same course, especially in international teams.
VILT improves the learning outcomes of a course by promoting active learning, helping the learned material stick better in the mind through diverse discussions.
VILT offers more convenience for learners because it adapts to the different lifestyles of individual learners, thereby offering effective and flexible learning experiences.
VILT supports internal knowledge exchange within the team even after the training, as discussions often help find learning partners who continue to exchange ideas in the long term.
Why companies should rely on VILT
Virtual Instructor-Led Training is as individual as the needs of the different learners themselves. And that is precisely why the approach is particularly well-suited for professional development in companies. In contrast to classic e-learning approaches, VILT focuses on communication and exchange between instructors and learners. VILT brings learners together in the company, thereby creating effective learning communities. This motivates learners and keeps them interested throughout.
You should keep these three things in mind 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
A company's learning culture is as individual as the company itself. You should definitely know it for the implementation of a VILT! What is the learning culture like 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!
