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Six Benefits of eLearning to Train Frontline Manufacturing Workers

By Erin Silver   |   

Many benefits of eLearning aren’t entirely new. But the inherent challenges of a manufacturing facility and workforce have made widespread eLearning programs harder to implement than in an office setting. But times are changing. Even in WiFi-scarce facilities, eLearning is being used more frequently, and mobile capabilities are being embraced where they were once impractical.

So how does eLearning specifically benefit frontline workers in manufacturing? Let’s take a look:


1.Flexibility
We all know what it’s like to try and schedule a simple 30-minute meeting between two or three people. It’s even harder for supervisors and managers to coordinate the schedules for a group of workers, especially if that means grinding production to a halt so they can attend a training.

eLearning provides the luxury of options: you have the option to arrange a training when it suits the schedule in the best possible way. And eLearning can help manufacturers bridge employee’s training gaps despite tight production schedules while also increasing operational efficiency in the facility.

 

2. Cost-saving There are some workers who are always on the road, delivering essential goods near and far, or simply working in different satellite facilities. eLearning allows required learning to be completed remotely via online classes, without the cost of travel and accommodation. And in most instances, purchasing eLearning materials can be a one-and-done deal, allowing you to use and tweak the material over and over again.

 

3. Retention-boosting The eLearning material of today is leaps and bounds more inventive and advanced than the versions that first debuted. Learning is engaging, attention-holding, and delivers learning in a way that allows workers to retain new information. Ultimately, the best eLearning platform should include ways to verify complete understanding of training material. An employee who really absorbs training, rather than just checking the box to say it’s done, will be more productive and less likely to cause injuries. And it will also strengthen their sense of connection to their day-to-day actions, which in turn increases the overall sense of purpose in their role. That’s impactful!

 

4. Customizable eLearning allows you to meet the needs of everyone involved. Some learners prefer shorter bits of information. Some prefer interactive videos and game formats versus reading. And quizzes and knowledge checks give learners a front-row seat to their progress, rather than feeling in the dark about their progress. Even better: Everyone can learn at their own pace. Some people absorb information quickly. Others need extra time.

 

5. Consistency eLearning provides the same training to all locations, ensuring consistent workforce and safety training for all departments and shifts, no matter what. So if one manager’s teaching skills aren’t as strong as others’, the workers aren’t going to be at a disadvantage because of it.

 

6. Safety The onset of COVID-19 revealed that most of us were not entirely prepared to keep operations running without a hitch while also keeping every employee safe — while also mitigating the spread of disease.

 

Interested in learning how to set up an eLearning program in the time of COVID-19? Check out the post “4 Steps for Setting Up an E-Learning Training Program During COVID-19” which shares tips on safely training employees while social distancing.

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