Gounter intelligence Learning without limits

\f,/Hex I prnsr srARrED working in a building supply V Y house, I underwent some extensive training. On my first day on the counter, the manager said, "Go ask that guy if you can help him." That was it. Training complete.

Things have changed since then. Today, most companies recognize the value of training. Almost all jobsregardless of the industry-require more and different skills than the jobs of the past. However, trying to decide on the best program for teaching those skills, from virtual classrooms to e-training to podcasts, not to mention all of the conventional training options, can seem downright overwhelming. But, all of the different channels of learning can easily fit into any of the following three categories:

Online Learning, or E-learning. Web-based, technology enabled training requires that your company have the infrastructure to support it. The biggest advantage to e- learning is its around-the-clock availability. Learning can be broken down into smaller modules providing greater flexibility for individual learners.

Active Learning. Typically active learning refers to the traditional student-teacher roles. However, modern trainers present content that follows a more interactive learning design. Participants are interactive. They may work in pairs or form teams. Guided discussions, role-playing, and learning tournaments are examples of active learning.

Blended Learning. Blended learning combines formal learning tools with informal tools. This method of training mixes multiple media formats, such as streaming video, audio media, and Web-based tutorials, as well as hands-on experiences. The philosophy behind this method is that training should be a continuous process. In other words,