A comprehensive roadmap for frontline learning

4 ways to go beyond digital learning

While digital learning is essential, it’s only part of the equation.

Everyone in L&D agrees: learning by doing is essential, whether it’s figuring out the complexities of a roller coaster or perfecting the art of selling shoes. The real challenge lies in integrating this hands-on experience with digital learning to create a seamless and effective training process.

So, how can you bridge this gap? It starts with leveraging technology to enhance hands-on training rather than trying to replace it. Like improving onboarding by aligning digital content with practical, job-specific tasks.

1. Provide instructions for hands-on job training tasks

Instead of isolating hands-on training from digital resources, integrate them. Place practical job tasks alongside your digital content so employees can immediately connect what they learn online with real-world applications. For instance, use digital platforms to deliver foundational knowledge and then transition seamlessly into on-the-job training.

Our most recent research uncovered that frontline employees prefer hands-on experiences, especially when it comes to customer service and safety training.

2. Assess knowledge and hands-on application during training

Effective frontline training goes beyond knowledge tests; it requires evaluating real-world applications. That is, use technology to assess both theoretical understanding and hands-on skills.

This means not just checking if someone passed a quiz, but also observing their ability to perform tasks like operating a lift truck or handling a customer checkout. This way, you ensure that employees are truly prepared for their roles.

3. Observe real-world performance to inform ongoing support

Take your training to the next level by using technology to track and analyze real-world performance. While managers often jot down performance notes or keep them in their heads, digital tools can systematically capture these observations.

Integrating this data into your training allows you to target specific challenges and adjust support based on actual performance, making your learning programs more relevant and effective.

4. Nudge managers to provide the right coaching at the right time

Leverage learning platform data to guide managers in delivering timely and targeted coaching. Technology can analyze performance and training data to highlight who needs support and when, ensuring that managers focus their efforts where they’re needed most.

Success story: A retailer integrated digital and real-life training in their onboarding, breaking it down by shifts and days to prevent information overload and enhance relationship-building. This way, they streamlined the onboarding process and also used data to guide managers toward more effective, real-time coaching.