As the effects of the pandemic deepen, companies are adjusting to the new business landscape of remote working and online meetings: training is no longer ‘on hold’ until normal activities resume. Many were reluctant to replace face-to-face courses with online learning, fearing the interactivity of the learning experience would be compromised.
The cursors of an instructor and trainee discussing seismic interpretation in a VILT practical exercise breakout room. © PetroEdge.
Using a variety of platforms, PetroEdge has continued with a fully supported learning experience through live virtual instructor-led training (VILT). Participants are given orientation instruction before the courses to ensure full access and interaction with each other, the instructors and the resources available. Instructors have had to rethink their materials and practical exercises and adjust the way they work with learners. Teamworking in ‘breakout rooms’ allows colleagues to interact and learn from each other, connecting a dispersed workforce. Group activities and discussions foster engagement and help instructors gauge participants’ level of comprehension.
VILT courses are cost-effective and easy to organise with no need for travel, meeting rooms or accommodation. Trainees return to their normal work at the end of the sessions and can view video of any parts of sessions they may have missed.
Feedback from participants is 100% positive; over 75% rated the communication, effectiveness and interactivity as very good to excellent. Trainees particularly appreciated the quality of materials, group activities, interactivity and communication.
PetroEdge has also developed bitesize and multi-instructor programmes, taking advantage of the flexibility of VILT and easier access to instructors.
