Distance learning is a form of self-paced learning, because the learner works through the course material and assignments in their own time and at their own pace. This is a great way to do training in topics that don't require hands-on instruction or immediate assistance.

From the trainer's perspective, it allows you to devote your on-site training time to the topics that require face-to-face contact, and let the learner work through the background material or theoretical subjects in your absence.

From the learner's perspective, the topics can be covered at times that are most convenient for them, and in greater depth if they want to do further research on their own.

Distance learning doesn't have to mean that the learner feels isolated. Some trainers encourage their students to communicate with each other via social networking websites or email, so they can share their experiences and collaborate on assignments.

It is also common to have web-based seminars, or 'webinars', led by the trainer to allow new topics to be presented and group discussions to take place.

However, despite the huge possibilities opened up by distance learning, especially when it involves internet-based communication, it too has its potential problems.

Firstly, and most obviously, the learners have to be able to cope with the technology, and have ready access to the equipment needed. Even with print-based learner guides and written assignments, they need to have reasonable literacy skills, or someone who can help them with any literacy difficulties.

Secondly, they need to have lots of motivation. Many people have started distance learning modules with the best of intentions, only to fall behind because they couldn't find the time to do the background reading or complete the assignments.

You need to weigh up the capacity of your learners to successfully work through a self-paced module or assignment before you leave them with it. If you're worried about their ability to finish it in the time allowed, make sure you communicate with them regularly and encourage them to raise any problems that might crop up along the way. It's also a good idea to ask the learner's workplace supervisor to 'crack the whip' whenever required.

Note that distance learning doesn't always have to be a one-way transmission of information, where the learner simply works through a set of course notes and answers questions or completes assignments. It is also an excellent mode for 'facilitating' learning, which we will discuss in more detail below.

Which delivery modes will you be using with your learners?

Will there be an opportunity to combine two or more methods into a 'blended delivery'?

How will you organise these methods into an integrated training program?

To help you work through the different training options that might be suitable for the topics you'll be covering with your learners, draw up a table like the example on the next page to explore the variety of options that might be available to you.

The link below will take you to a table showing different methods of delivery you could use to train a learner in telephone answering skills. Some of these methods could be combined to achieve a 'blended delivery' approach, depending on the circumstances.

Training options for 'telephone answering skills'