Private Training versus Public Classroom Training

Private Training vs. Classroom Instruction
The time has come for employee development and instruction, but you cannot decide between private training or using publicly scheduled off site classroom training. There are pros and cons to both types of training and making a decision will be based on a number of criteria. Cost of training being one of the most important – or is it? Remarkably in some cases, for example Microsoft Office Skills Training, private training can be more cost effective than attending a classroom session. Here are some factors to consider when choosing between private or external classroom based instruction.
Time Away From the Office.
Most desktop skills courses are scheduled to last one or two days. Private one on one training can teach the same curriculum in approximately half the time it takes to learn in a classroom. For classroom training the employee leaves the office, for private training the trainer can come to them. So instead of being gone for an entire day, the employee is able to get the same learning opportunity but will not need to leave the office and will still have a half day of productivity. This is ideal for small business. Additionally there is no need for travel time for the employee.
Curriculum Can be Focused on Business Needs.
Most classroom instruction follows a set curriculum. In the case of Microsoft Office skills training that often means learning skills you already possess. It also requires the use of common sample data and exercises that may or may not be relevant to the tasks required by an employee. Private training on the other hand, can be modified to fit the exact needs of the student. A quick review of the course outline before hand can identify the skills that are already known and allow for time to be spent only learning skills that are needed. Instead of generic sample files, instructors and students can work on scenarios and actual files that a relevant to the business’s needs.
It’s About the Student not the Curriculum.
In a classroom setting, students are responsible for asking for assistance when they need it. If a student is confused and too shy to ask for assistance in front of their peers, they might not get the maximum benefit from the learning situation. With private training the instructor is right there beside the student, witnessing the learning and is more able to ensure that the proper skills are being garnered.
Cost.
At first glance, private training may seem more expensive. And, if looked at on a cost per hour basis alone, classroom training will appear to be less expensive. An employer must be cautious not to fall into the trap of thinking more training hours means more training. Three hours of private training is often more effective than 6 hours classroom training. Based on this, the private training would need to be more than double the hourly cost of attending a classroom session before it becomes more costly. And that is before considering the productivity gains associated with the focus learning, company specific samples and having the employee only miss half a day of work.
Ultimately choosing to use private training versus classroom training will depend on the topic and the student. For some topics one on one private training makes the most sense, for others the interaction they receive by participating in group exercises is an invaluable part of the learning experience. Look at all the variable to choose accordingly. In either case improving the skills of your employees is a smart investment.


Private Training versus Public Classroom Training - To learn more about this author, visit Louis Trahan's Website.

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