How to Build an Online Training Package

The purpose of any training program is to improve job performance, enhance existing skills and concepts and/or acquire new knowledge. Business, corporations, non-profits, educational institutions and government industries all use training programs. They are also always looking for new training packages. The current trend is to use online training packages because of convenience, cost and time effectiveness. Additionally, an online training package allows the learner to study anywhere, anytime and at his own pace. Instructional designers and professional trainers are shifting from in-person training to building completely online training packages. The developmental process is relatively the same as for face-to-face training; however, the mode of delivery is different. Therefore, training material must be clearer and concise, because the facilitator is the computer instead of a person.

Instructions

1. Conduct a needs assessment. Determine what type of training packages businesses and industries need. Ask human resource professionals what they see a need for in employees.

2. Choose the subject matter that you want to focus on, and be specific. A training package cannot cover everything. The best way to choose a training focus is to look at your area of expertise or another person's expertise, with whom you will be working.

3. Research existing training packages. Find out if your idea already exists. If it does, decide how you can you change it or tailor it in a different fashion.

4. Choose an instructional strategy. The strategy should be designed around the learners; therefore, analyze your target audience. Analyze who they are, what their education level is and what their existing knowledge and skill set is.

5. Sequence the training material in a way that is easy to understand, chronological and makes sense to the learner. First, write an outline and then add steps and subtopics.

6. Select different learning activities. Online training delivery may include power point slides, video, audio and/or interactive activities.

7. Decide between summative and formative evaluation, or use a combination of both. Tailor the evaluation around the training package.

8. Research and choose the best integrated learning system (ILS) for the training material and learners.

9. Re-read, revise and re-write the training content and evaluation.

Tips & Warnings

• Instructional software goes by many names:

• Course Mangement Systems (CMS)

• Instructional Management Systems (IMS)

• Learning Management Systems (LMS)

• Blackboard and WebCT are among the most popular management systems.

References

• "Instructional Design," Third Edition; Patricia L. Smith and Tillman J. Ragan; 2005
• Instructional Design Website