Times are changing rapidly with significant advancements and improvements in technology. One such noteworthy development has been the introduction of eLearning. Technology has not only made it easier for students to take an education remotely, but it has also been tremendously influencing traditional education. 

The concept of eLearning and online education is becoming more and more driven within different institutions. Many schools and colleges are now introducing their uniquely designed online degree programs because of increased demand. Moreover, companies worldwide now recognize and credit online degrees as equal, if not more, to traditional in-person education. Experts claim that the eLearning industry will experience probable growth at an explosive CAGR of over 21% between 2022 and 2027. 

Online education comes with a reasonable amount of advantages and disadvantages. However, remember that there are drawbacks to traditionally studying, but that is no reason to flinch from considering it. eLearning could be an excellent opportunity for students looking for higher flexibility and more comfort in their studies. It could especially be pivotal for professional development. People often don’t believe the latter, so let’s discuss a few reasons why eLearning is essential for employee growth and development. 

Career prospects

The most incredible benefit eLearning promises is a wide range of career prospects. Since eLearning encourages flexibility and convenience, individuals find it much easier to choose a degree best aligned with their goals without any pressure. 

eLearning teaches you invaluable skills and boosts your professional development. It offers flexibility and convenience to full-time students and working professionals irrespective of their field. For instance, healthcare professionals now find it much easier to complete MHA MBA without compromising their work-life. 

Moreover, eLearning allows employees to earn degrees and certifications while working, promotes innovation, boosts productivity, and helps meet industry demands. It enables professionals to gain new skills and explore various career options. 

Low cost 

There’s no denying how expensive college fee is and how it is unaffordable for many. However, you’d be surprised to know that eLearning degrees and courses cost a fraction of an average in-person degree. It is primarily because of the reduction in transport and conveyance cost, meal costs, venue cost/rent, and printing costs. 

Not only is eLearning affordable for many, but you also get significantly more hours of lectures and tutorials. And the focal point is that you can watch these lessons repeatedly as many times as you want because most of them are recordings and not live sessions. It is crucial to note that even though the volume of eLearning courses being sold is high, there is little to no compromise on quality. Moreover, guides and feedback are also available. Enrolled attendees can even book a meeting with the instructor for further help.

New training experiences 

eLearning boosts training experiences by introducing various software, processes, and programs. For instance, the API-compliant LMS system allows you to access the entire scope of online activities rather than limiting your development and training experience to a course library. 

Microlearning targets a small skill and gives enrollees access to a short module – each earmarking a specific skill. Microlearning improves on-the-job training, increases engagement, improves knowledge retention, and allows learners to consume content quickly. 

Macro-learning, however, refers to massive online courses, complete degrees, and other modules that help students master skills. Macro-learning is essential because it provides a structure for continuous learning culture. Many experts also claim that macro-learning is critical to skills acquisition harmony. 

Learners learn at their own pace

Every learner has a specific methodology of studying. Some prefer to take it slow, while some want to wrap up things quickly. Forcing employees to research and learn never works. Instead of focusing on gaining skills, they overburden themselves in the piles of deadlines. However, that is not the case with eLearning. eLearning empowers workers to learn at their preferred speed without pressure to meet deadlines or forced assignments. 

Most learners and employees prefer automated solutions because of their higher flexibility and convenience. Through eLearning, trainees and students can set their schedules, pick courses by choice, and learn at their own pace. 

Global accessibility 

The best part about eLearning is the global accessibility of online courses and degrees. You could be sitting in your room but studying at a top-notch institute that is miles away. Online training makes it significantly easier to reskill employees and provides them with more integrated training irrespective of their current location. 

Moreover, online training also makes relocation of employees more accessible and convenient. Remember, mobile employees, along with the option of ongoing web learning, are often invaluable for most companies. 

Global closeness also means having the opportunity to work in teams with students from all over the world. It is an excellent way to share ideas, gain different perspectives, and understand other opinions. It expands your knowledge base, encourages collaboration, and helps you focus on solving problems. 

Higher retention 

Several studies confirmed that eLearning could raise employee retention extensively. Research shows that eLearning increases retention rate by 25% to 60% compared to in-person training. The retention increases through microlearning when employees understand new ideas and concepts in small chunks rather than long-form lectures. Furthermore, through eLearning, you can customize modules, add scenarios and gamified elements, use spaced repetition, and give feedback.

Employee retention is crucial because it leads to better customer experiences, higher productivity, better employee experience, and improved corporate culture. It also leads to cost reduction, morale improvement, training efficiency, and fewer transition. Employee gaps also reduce, customer relations improve, brand reputation enhances, and competition galvanizes. 

Conclusion 

The pace at which eLearning is expanding is incredible. Thanks to the recent Pandemic, the demand for online courses rose more than ever. Not only that, but eLearning’s recognition and accreditation also experienced a tremendous increase. Today, organizations worldwide accept and implement eLearning and web-based solutions within their learning and development initiatives for a better experience. 

However, it is crucial to understand that eLearning comes with a few challenges. For once, the availability of computers and PCs is always necessary. A fast internet connection is also a must. Also, while eLearning sounds easy and simple, one must remain diligent and consistent to fully utilize and benefit from online learning.