Online and virtual learning is the new way apprentices are training for their trade

Workplace learning no longer has to occur face-to-face and apprentices are among those to benefit from the virtual shift.

Virtual and online training are rapidly becoming the preferred methods of learning, with face-to-face training unlikely to make a full return to adult education.

Non-contact learning programs introduced by many training organisations at the height of the coronavirus pandemic have allowed students to make more efficient use of their time and, in many cases, have been cheaper to run.

Pragmatic Thinking chief executive Alison Hill says virtual training is especially effective for workplace learning.

“From a costing perspective alone, it can be much cheaper to get workers together for a virtual session than to fly them in from other states for face-to-face training,’’ Hill says.

“There still will be a component of face-to-face training but there’s much more of an appetite now to continue down the virtual pathway.

“There’s a lot we can offer in that virtual space.’’

Paul Sexton is completing his theory for his apprenticeship online.

Hill says virtual training – which occurs in real-time – is far superior to prerecorded online learning because it increases participant engagement.

But she admits distractions can be an issue for both virtual and online training, advising participants to switch off the notifications on their devices and set themselves up in a calm, quiet environment for the best results.

“It’s a good idea to always have a pen and paper with you for that tactile component of writing notes and any questions you may have,’’ Hill says.

“Use the chat function if you can, even if it’s just to say hello and where you are based, can help in being really present and engaged for the training.’’

While vocational training has been harder to navigate during the pandemic, many educators have moved to teaching theory-based concepts online, requiring students to only attend campus for practical teaching.

Alison Hill provides her tips on how to successfully study online.

Group training organisation PEER introduced remote learning to its offerings several years ago but chief executive Peter Nolan says there was little uptake until the COVID-19 lockdowns.

“It’s a bit like the old School of the Air or Open Access (College) – our students can do their theory remotely but then still engage through face-to-face practical training or practical assessments,’’ Nolan says.

He says as pandemic restrictions eased over the past few months, almost a third of apprentices chose to continue learning remotely because of the flexibility it provides.

Paul Sexton, 57, works full time in his role as the SA/NT engineer manager for Sims Metal but is also completing an electrical apprenticeship to allow him to take on a greater variety of duties.

He says combining work and training would be much more difficult without the option of online learning.

“Doing it (the apprenticeship) online is beneficial because I can do it at the time that suits me, which is usually at night,’’ he says.