A government regulatory body, needed to implement a new database system across the UK for all schools, colleges, awarding body administrators and learning centres. They decided the most effective method of training users was to use their own experienced staff therefore, a Train-the-Trainer approach was selected to cascade content to a range of geographically dispersed end-users. Content was needed for three separate organisations within the client structure which required three different types of materials, e-learning and Training Manuals to be developed. Our Response
Steria were awarded the contract to build and maintain a bespoke database system with Steria Learning Services (SLS) designing and developing classroom and e-learning materials, and delivering a blended learning solution. SLS took a flexible approach to the training solution, keeping course content aligned to specific user job roles. This meant users could pick and choose learning content relevant to their job, avoiding time spent in unnecessary and lengthy classroom sessions. As the client required minimal disruption to operational activities, e-learning was the obvious choice. After rigorous user acceptance testing, pilots and client reviews were concluded, CDs were provided with interactive exercises built into the content, enabling new knowledge to be tested and repeated throughout the learning process. SLS also took advantage of the reduction in time gaps that e-learning provides by sending CD’s of the e-learning to delegates before any training occurred. This meant learners could familiarise themselves with the system in their own time, at home or in the office before receiving any training,. Consequently knowledge gaps were reduced as course content was immediately accessible before and after training. The nature of the blended approach meant SLS had to build the e-learning to serve dual purposes, i.e. to be used as instructor led content by a trainer within a classroom environment, and on a self-teach basis for an end-user. This flexibility also meant the client’s trainers could pick and choose their preferred delivery styles when cascading training to their end-user audience. SLS also tied in the training with the client’s training programme, cascading end-user content in one day via multiple training sessions held for up to 40 trainers. The e-learning was customised using Flash based design tools, which not only kept costs down by eliminating the need for software licences, but also kept the hardware and software specification requirements to an absolute minimum for all schools and colleges involved in the rollout.
The Outcome
Thousands of users across the country were able to use the system in a very short period of time, with over 80 trainers to cascade the first release. Immediate training evaluation and measurement of effectiveness found that the client’s trainers summarised the materials as “comprehensive and very useful” and rated themselves as “confident to deliver”. The trainers were very appreciative of having the time to ask experienced SLS trainers questions about the new system at the Train-the-Trainer days before they went on the road. To facilitate future upgrades and releases, SLS also provided manuals on how to edit the e-learning content. This left the client with full control and flexibility to update materials as and when, using any preferred cost effective approach.
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