The Many Benefits of Incorporating VILT into Your L&D Program

Virtual Instructor Led Training (VILT) is a tool that bridges traditional classroom training and online learning. Organizations have historically struggled to scale instructor-led training for a variety of reasons, including consistency of delivery when many facilitators are involved, expense of delivery, and localization.
VILT has the potential to resolve these issues by allowing learners to have the experience of synchronous, instructor-led training without having to go to a classroom, or have the instructor physically present.
There are many benefits of VILT application, most of which have to do with reducing costs and improving learning outcomes. Here are the top benefits of applying virtual instructor-led training to your organization:
Reduced Costs
Travel  – Since VILT does not require any travel for students or instructors, the reduction of expenses for travel and accommodations should be substantial.
Lost Time – One common overlooked cost associated with training is the time employees and managers lose while traveling to and from live, in-person training events. With VILT, those sunk costs are void, as the virtual classroom can be accessed from anywhere.
Materials – Virtual materials are substantially less costly than physical materials. Digital media eliminates the costs of expensive printing, copying, binding and shipping materials like workbooks and training manuals.
These three reduced or eliminated costs alone should add up to substantial savings when it comes to your learning and development budget. Beyond budgetary considerations, the benefits of VILT also include learning effectiveness.
Improved Learning Outcomes
Traditional instruction, delivered virtually – The benefits of having a two-way, real-time conversation with instructors are many. VILT allows learners to have this experience using technology such as GoToMeeting and Webex and pairs it with the convenience and comfort of accessing it from anywhere. This combination can increase engagement, therefore improving effectiveness.
Broadened learning environment – VILT combines the power of instructor-led training with the engagement of eLearning. Not only do learners have the ability to interact in real-time with instructors, but also access to digital resources that can enhance their learning experience such as social media, online libraries and microlearning supplements.
Increased engagement – The simple fact that VILT is a live broadcast means it includes multiple elements of media that traditional classroom instruction may not. There will be visual, audio, chatting and interaction elements making the training more engaging and entertaining for learners.
The cost-savings, scalability and effectiveness of VILT have made it a popular trend in the learning and development industry over the past few years. And it’s likely that this trend will continue as the practice itself continues to expand and improve.
Interested in learning more about how VILT can benefit your organization? Contact us today!