The landscape of work is transforming at an unprecedented rate, demanding that businesses adapt by continually enhancing the skills of their workforce. This challenge requires innovative approaches, and artificial intelligence (AI) stands out as a key enabler. In this article, we explore how AI can revolutionize the upskilling and reskilling of employees, ensuring that your organization remains competitive in a rapidly evolving market.
The Need for Upskilling and Reskilling
In today’s economy, the only constant is change. Technological advancements and shifting industry standards frequently render old skills obsolete. For businesses, staying ahead means not just keeping up with developments but also anticipating them. This necessity makes the continual upskilling and reskilling of employees not just beneficial but essential.
Traditional training methods often struggle to meet the needs of modern businesses and their employees. They can be rigid, time-consuming, and not always effective at engaging today’s learners or measuring their progress adequately.
AI in Learning and Development
AI transforms learning and development efforts from a one-size-fits-all approach to a tailored, dynamic experience. AI technologies like machine learning, natural language processing, and predictive analytics can dramatically enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of training programs.
Personalized Learning Pathways
AI excels in creating personalized learning experiences that adapt to the pace and style of each learner. This customization increases engagement and improves learning outcomes, making training more relevant and enjoyable.
Scalability of AI Training Programs
AI solutions can easily scale to accommodate the needs of growing organizations without compromising the quality of training. Whether you have tens or thousands of employees, AI-driven programs adjust to handle varying capacities seamlessly.
Key Benefits of AI in Employee Training
Incorporating AI into your training strategies offers several advantages:
Enhanced Engagement and Retention: AI-driven programs are interactive and responsive, which keeps learners engaged and improves knowledge retention.
Adopting AI for training doesn’t have to be daunting. Start by assessing your current training needs and exploring available AI technologies that can meet these requirements. Then, pilot small-scale projects to gauge effectiveness before a full rollout.
Future Trends in AI Training
The future of AI in employee training is poised to become even more innovative and impactful. As technology evolves, we can anticipate more sophisticated AI capabilities being integrated into learning and development programs. Trends such as augmented and virtual reality will enhance immersive learning experiences, making complex skills and scenarios easier to teach and learn in a hands-on manner. AI will also advance in its ability to analyze big data from training sessions to provide even deeper insights into learning behaviors and outcomes, enabling hyper-personalization of content to individual learning curves and preferences. Furthermore, AI is expected to facilitate more seamless integration of continuous learning into daily work, thereby making training a more integral, less disruptive part of the employee experience. This will not only improve engagement but also ensure that the workforce is perpetually equipped with the latest skills needed in an ever-changing business environment.
The transformative power of AI in upskilling and reskilling is immense, offering opportunities to significantly enhance the capabilities of your workforce. As businesses continue to navigate the complexities of the modern economic landscape, leveraging AI in employee training is not just an option but a necessity.
When it comes to implementing AI in your training efforts, Wranx microlearning platform harnesses the power of AI so you can create training programs that are customized to your organization, in mere minutes. With its robust AI capabilities, Wranx ensures that your training initiatives are not only up-to-date but also effective and engaging.
FAQs
Q: What makes AI-driven training more effective than traditional methods?
AI-driven training is more effective because it uses data to personalize learning experiences, adapting in real-time to the needs of each learner. This means that content can be tailored to suit the pace, style, and understanding level of individual learners, which enhances engagement and retention. AI also enables continuous feedback and assessment, allowing learners and trainers to track progress and make adjustments as needed.
Q: How does AI personalize learning experiences?
AI personalizes learning experiences by analyzing a learner’s interactions and performance within the training module. It utilizes algorithms to assess strengths and weaknesses, and then adjusts the content accordingly. For example, if a learner is struggling with a particular concept, AI can provide additional resources or exercises to reinforce understanding. Conversely, if a learner is excelling, AI can offer more advanced materials to keep them challenged and engaged.
Q: Can AI training solutions scale for large organizations?
Yes, AI training solutions are highly scalable. They are designed to manage and deliver training to any number of employees, from a few dozen to several thousand, without a decrease in effectiveness or quality. AI systems can quickly adjust to the size of the user base, ensuring that every employee receives a consistent and personalized training experience. This scalability also makes AI training cost-effective for large organizations.
Q: What are the cost benefits of using AI for training?
Using AI for training can lead to significant cost savings in several ways. First, AI reduces the need for extensive human resources by automating administrative tasks such as scheduling, monitoring, and assessing learner progress. Second, AI minimizes the costs associated with traditional classroom training, including travel, venue, and instructor fees. Additionally, the increased efficiency and effectiveness of AI-driven training can lead to faster employee development and improved performance, which positively impacts the overall profitability of the organization.
Q: How can businesses start integrating AI into their training programs?
Businesses can start integrating AI into their training programs by first identifying the specific needs and goals of their training initiatives. Next, they should research and select AI tools that align with these objectives. Starting with pilot projects or specific departments can help organizations test the effectiveness of AI-driven training solutions. It’s also beneficial to involve IT and human resources departments to ensure the technology integrates well with existing systems and supports the desired learning outcomes. Lastly, gathering feedback from early adopters can help refine and expand the use of AI across the organization.
Unlocking Success: How Staff Training Transforms Customer Service
In today’s competitive business landscape, exceptional customer service isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s a fundamental driver of success. Businesses across industries are increasingly recognizing the pivotal role that well-trained staff play in delivering outstanding customer experiences. Here, we delve into six recent statistics that underscore the transformative power of staff training on customer service and overall business success.
1. Customer Satisfaction Impact
A study by Harvard Business Review uncovered a compelling link between employee training and financial performance. Companies that invest in staff training enjoy a remarkable 24% higher profit margin compared to those that neglect to educate their employees. This finding underscores the direct correlation between staff training, customer satisfaction, and overall financial success.
2. Training and Customer Loyalty
According to research by Forbes, a staggering 86% of customers are willing to pay more for a superior customer experience. By prioritizing staff training aimed at enhancing customer service skills, businesses can cultivate stronger customer loyalty and drive revenue growth. Investing in equipping employees with the tools to exceed customer expectations pays dividends in the form of repeat business and brand advocacy.
Research by Zendesk underscores the importance of positive service experiences in fostering customer loyalty. A substantial 70% of customers who enjoyed a positive service encounter with a company were more likely to remain loyal. Effective staff training equips employees to handle customer inquiries adeptly, resolve issues efficiently, and leave a lasting positive impression—key ingredients for fostering customer loyalty and retention.
A report by Aberdeen Group highlights the importance of evaluating the impact of staff training on customer service outcomes. Companies with effective training programs are 67% more likely to improve their customer service satisfaction ratings. Implementing robust metrics and feedback mechanisms enables businesses to assess training effectiveness, identify areas for improvement, and drive continuous enhancement in service quality.
In conclusion, these statistics underscore the profound impact that staff training can have on customer service outcomes, customer satisfaction, and overall business success. By prioritizing comprehensive training programs that empower employees to deliver exceptional service, businesses can cultivate enduring customer relationships, drive revenue growth, and secure a competitive edge in today’s dynamic marketplace.
Wranx offers a transformative solution to customer service training by utilizing personalized, microlearning techniques that fit seamlessly into the busy schedules of employees. With its adaptive employee learning platform, Wranx identifies individual strengths and areas for improvement, delivering bite-sized training modules that reinforce knowledge retention and skill development over time. By incorporating gamification elements and real-time feedback, Wranx keeps employees engaged and motivated to excel in their customer service roles.
With Wranx, companies can streamline their training processes, enhance employee performance, and ultimately deliver exceptional customer experiences that drive long-term success.
Employee training and development encompass a range of activities aimed at enhancing the knowledge, skills, and abilities of employees within an organization. It involves systematic efforts to improve individual and organizational performance through learning initiatives. Investing in employee training and development is imperative for organizations striving to stay competitive and adapt to evolving market demands.
The Benefits of Employee Training and Development
Improved Employee Performance Employee training equips individuals with the necessary knowledge and skills to perform their roles effectively. By providing employees with relevant training opportunities, organizations can enhance productivity, quality of work, and overall performance.
Increased Employee Engagement and Morale Investing in employee development demonstrates a commitment to the growth and success of employees. This, in turn, fosters a sense of loyalty, motivation, and engagement among employees, leading to higher job satisfaction and morale.
Enhanced Job Satisfaction and Retention Employees value organizations that invest in their professional growth and development. Providing opportunities for skill enhancement and career advancement contributes to higher levels of job satisfaction and employee retention.
Adaptation to Industry Changes and Technological Advancements Continuous training ensures that employees stay abreast of industry trends, best practices, and technological advancements. This enables organizations to adapt to changing market dynamics and maintain a competitive edge.
Types of Employee Training
On-the-Job Training On-the-job training involves learning while performing job-related tasks under the guidance of experienced colleagues or supervisors. It is a practical and hands-on approach to skill development, allowing employees to acquire new competencies in real-world scenarios.
Classroom or Instructor-Led Training Classroom training involves traditional classroom settings where instructors deliver lectures, facilitate discussions, and conduct interactive activities. It is effective for imparting theoretical knowledge and fostering peer-to-peer learning.
Online or E-Learning Courses Online learning platforms or e-learning courses leverage digital platforms to deliver training content anytime, anywhere. E-learning offers flexibility, scalability, and accessibility, making it ideal for organizations with geographically dispersed teams or remote workforce.
Cross-Training and Job Rotation Cross-training involves training employees to perform multiple roles or tasks within an organization. Job rotation involves periodically rotating employees across different departments or functions to broaden their skillset and perspective.
Strategies for Effective Employee Training and Development
Assessing Training Needs Before designing a training program, organizations must assess the specific learning needs and skill gaps of their employees. This can be done through surveys, performance evaluations, and competency assessments to identify areas for improvement.
Setting Clear Learning Objectives Clear learning objectives provide employees with a roadmap for their training journey. Objectives should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART), ensuring that employees understand what is expected of them and how their learning will be assessed.
Designing Engaging Training Programs Engaging training programs incorporate a variety of learning methods and formats to cater to diverse learning styles. This includes interactive activities, simulations, case studies, videos, and real-life scenarios to keep employees motivated and actively involved in their learning.
Providing Continuous Feedback and Support Feedback is essential for employees to understand their progress and areas for improvement. Regular feedback sessions with trainers, mentors, or supervisors help employees track their development and receive guidance and support along the way.
Evaluating Training Effectiveness Evaluating training effectiveness involves assessing the impact of training on employee performance, behavior, and organizational goals. This can be done through pre-and post-training assessments, surveys, performance metrics, and feedback from stakeholders.
Tools and Technologies for Employee Training
Learning Management Systems (LMS) LMS platforms centralize training content, track learner progress, and facilitate online learning activities. They offer features such as course management, assessment tools, collaboration forums, and analytics to streamline the training process.
Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) VR and AR technologies immerse employees in realistic training simulations and scenarios, allowing them to practice skills in a safe and controlled environment. These technologies enhance engagement, retention, and transfer of learning.
Mobile Learning Apps Mobile learning apps enable employees to access training content on their smartphones or tablets, anytime, anywhere. They offer flexibility and convenience, making learning more accessible and personalized to individual preferences.
Gamification Platforms Gamification platforms integrate game elements such as points, badges, leaderboards, and rewards into training programs to motivate and incentivize learning. Gamified experiences increase engagement, participation, and retention of training content.
Trends in Employee Training and Development
Personalized Learning Experiences Personalized learning uses data analytics and AI algorithms to deliver tailored learning experiences based on individual preferences, goals, and learning styles. This approach enhances engagement and relevance, leading to better learning outcomes.
Microlearning Microlearning delivers bite-sized training content in short, focused bursts, typically ranging from a few minutes to fifteen minutes. It is ideal for busy employees with limited time and attention spans, allowing them to learn on the go.
Just-in-Time Training Just-in-time training provides employees with the right information or skills at the moment of need, enabling them to apply knowledge immediately to solve problems or complete tasks. This approach increases efficiency and effectiveness in performance.
Social Learning and Peer-to-Peer Collaboration Social learning encourages employees to learn from each other through collaborative activities, discussions, and knowledge sharing. Peer-to-peer learning fosters a culture of continuous learning and community within the organization.
Challenges in Employee Training and Development
Budget Constraints Limited budget allocation for training programs can pose a challenge for organizations seeking to invest in employee development. Finding cost-effective solutions and prioritizing training initiatives that yield the highest ROI is essential in overcoming this challenge.
Time Constraints Balancing training activities with daily job responsibilities can be challenging for employees and trainers alike. Organizations must find ways to accommodate training within employees’ schedules while minimizing disruptions to workflow.
Resistance to Change Employees may resist participating in training programs due to fear of change, reluctance to learn new skills, or perceived lack of relevance to their roles. Overcoming resistance requires effective communication, support from leadership, and demonstrating the value of training to individual and organizational success.
Measuring ROI on Training Investments Evaluating the return on investment (ROI) of training initiatives can be complex and challenging. Organizations must establish clear metrics and performance indicators to assess the impact of training on business outcomes and justify continued investment in employee development.
Case Studies and Success Stories
IGT: Implementing a Comprehensive Compliance Training Program
IGT provides compliance training to its workforce in the regulated gaming industry. They sought a way to reinforce compliance knowledge and pinpoint gaps among sales reps and managers at their Texas site. Wranx enabled remote training during the Covid-19 pandemic. Through spaced repetition, the app enhanced knowledge retention in a quick and engaging manner. Post-assessment results revealed a significant boost in learners’ knowledge; 100% of those who completed the module improved their Certainty Based Marking (CBM) score from the pre-assessment.
Coachworks: Leveraging Technology for Employee Development and Increased Profits
Coachworks provides products and services to the automotive industry for sales, aftersales, and leadership support. The ‘Drive 5’ program aimed to boost retail staff knowledge but needed a digital touch. Partnering with Wranx, a microlearning platform, added gamification features for engaging training on the go. This online app led to a 125% increase in knowledge among Coachworks employees, turning them into product experts and driving a 48% profit increase per employee.
Vrbo: Overcoming Challenges in Training and Development Of A Disparate Workforce
Vrbo’s products and processes evolve rapidly, making face-to-face training impractical at times. They required an online platform for training Customer Service Representatives, and Wranx provided a way to deliver content and updates efficiently. Training in short, convenient bursts was preferred by call reps due to time constraints. Positive feedback was received from Vrbo employees, highlighting the benefit of learning on-the-go. Vrbo also noted a 56% decrease in misinformed users and improved alignment post-assessment, resulting in an average call time reduction of 5 seconds.
Future Outlook and Predictions
The Role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Employee Training AI technologies such as machine learning and natural language processing are increasingly being integrated into employee training solutions. AI-powered platforms can personalize learning experiences, automate content delivery, and provide real-time feedback, enhancing the effectiveness and efficiency of training programs.
Personalized and Adaptive Learning Solutions The future of employee training lies in personalized and adaptive learning solutions that cater to individual learning needs and preferences. AI algorithms analyze learner data to deliver tailored content, assessments, and recommendations, optimizing learning outcomes and engagement.
Continuous Learning as a Key to Future-Proofing Careers In today’s rapidly changing business landscape, continuous learning is essential for employees to stay relevant and competitive in their careers. Organizations must foster a culture of lifelong learning, providing employees with ongoing opportunities for skill development, career growth, and adaptation to emerging trends and technologies.
Conclusion
Employee training and development are vital for organizational success, enhancing performance, engagement, and innovation. By investing in effective training strategies, leveraging innovative technologies, and embracing future trends, organizations can empower their workforce to thrive in an ever-evolving business environment with the help of Wranx.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Employee Training and Development
1. What is employee training and development?
Employee training and development refer to the process of enhancing the knowledge, skills, and abilities of employees within an organization through systematic learning initiatives.
2. Why is employee training and development important?
Investing in employee training and development leads to improved performance, increased engagement, enhanced job satisfaction, and better adaptation to industry changes and technological advancements.
3. What are the different types of employee training?
Employee training can take various forms, including on-the-job training, classroom or instructor-led training, online or e-learning courses, and cross-training/job rotation.
4. How can organizations ensure effective employee training and development?
Organizations can ensure effective training and development by assessing training needs, setting clear learning objectives, designing engaging training programs, providing continuous feedback and support, and evaluating training effectiveness.
5. What tools and technologies are used for employee training?
Common tools and technologies for employee training include Learning Management Systems (LMS), Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR), mobile learning apps, and gamification platforms.
6. What are the current trends in employee training and development?
Current trends in employee training and development include personalized learning experiences, microlearning, just-in-time training, and social learning/peer-to-peer collaboration.
7. What are the main challenges in employee training and development?
Challenges in employee training and development include budget constraints, time constraints, resistance to change, and measuring ROI on training investments.
8. How can organizations overcome challenges in employee training and development?
Organizations can overcome challenges by finding cost-effective solutions, accommodating training within employees’ schedules, effectively communicating the value of training, and establishing clear metrics for evaluating training impact.
9. Can you provide examples of successful employee training and development initiatives?
Examples of successful initiatives include implementing comprehensive training programs, leveraging technology for employee development, and overcoming challenges through phased approaches and continuous improvement.
10. What is the future outlook for employee training and development?
The future of employee training and development lies in personalized and adaptive learning solutions, leveraging AI technologies, and fostering a culture of continuous learning to future-proof careers.
In today’s fast-paced world, time is more valuable than ever. Every moment counts, especially in the realm of business and professional development. With the advent of eLearning platforms, efficiency in training has reached new heights, revolutionizing the way individuals and organizations acquire knowledge and skills. This article explores the profound impact of eLearning platforms on saving time and enhancing efficiency in training processes.
A study conducted by Brandon Hall Group found that organizations implementing eLearning platforms for employee training save an average of 40-60% in training time compared to traditional classroom-based training methods.
Understanding the Significance of Time Management in Training
Efficient time management is crucial for individuals and organizations striving for success. In the context of training, effective utilization of time can lead to accelerated learning, improved productivity, and enhanced skill development. Time management ensures that learning experiences are optimized, enabling learners to achieve their goals in a timely manner.
Exploring the Role of eLearning Platforms in Training Efficiency
Enhanced Accessibility and Flexibility
eLearning platforms offer unparalleled accessibility, allowing learners to access training materials anytime, anywhere. Whether it’s through desktops, laptops, or mobile devices, individuals can engage in learning activities at their convenience. This flexibility eliminates the constraints of traditional classroom-based training, enabling learners to manage their time effectively.
Personalized Learning Experience
One of the key features of eLearning platforms is their ability to deliver personalized learning experiences. Through adaptive learning algorithms and customizable content, these platforms cater to the individual learning needs of each user. By focusing on relevant content and pacing, learners can optimize their time and maximize their learning outcomes.
A survey conducted by Training Magazine indicated that 94% of employees prefer eLearning platforms for training over traditional classroom-based methods, citing convenience, flexibility, and personalized learning experiences as key factors contributing to their preference.
eLearning platforms leverage multimedia elements, interactive quizzes, and gamified activities to create engaging learning experiences. By incorporating diverse content formats, such as videos, simulations, and case studies, these platforms capture learners’ attention and promote active participation. This interactive approach not only enhances retention but also makes learning enjoyable, ultimately saving time in the training process.
The American Society for Training and Development (ASTD) reported that organizations using eLearning platforms for training experience a 50% increase in employee engagement, leading to higher retention rates and improved overall performance.
Unlike traditional training methods, eLearning platforms offer real-time progress tracking features. Learners can monitor their progress, track completed modules, and identify areas for improvement instantly. This visibility into their learning journey empowers individuals to manage their time more efficiently and stay on track towards their learning goals.
Maximizing Efficiency with Time Management Strategies
Setting Clear Learning Objectives
Before embarking on any training program, it’s essential to establish clear learning objectives. Define what you aim to achieve through the training and break down the goals into manageable tasks. By outlining specific objectives, learners can prioritize their time and focus on the most relevant content.
Creating a Structured Learning Schedule
Time management in training requires a structured approach to learning. Create a realistic schedule that allocates time for studying, practicing, and reviewing course materials. Incorporate regular breaks to avoid burnout and maintain productivity. Stick to the schedule diligently to make the most out of your available time.
Utilizing Time-saving Tools and Resources
Take advantage of time-saving tools and resources offered by eLearning platforms. Whether it’s pre-built templates, automated assessments, or collaborative features, these tools streamline the learning process and enhance efficiency. Explore the platform’s functionalities and leverage them to optimize your time management efforts.
Embracing Continuous Learning
Efficiency in training is not a one-time achievement but a continuous journey. Encourage a culture of continuous learning within your organization, where employees are motivated to expand their skills and knowledge continually. By embracing lifelong learning, individuals stay ahead of the curve and capitalize on emerging opportunities, saving time in the long run.
Research published in the International Journal of Information and Education Technology revealed that eLearning platforms contribute to a 25-60% reduction in training costs for businesses due to factors such as reduced travel expenses and decreased time away from work for employees.
Time is Money: Unlocking Efficiency with eLearning Platforms for Training
In conclusion, the transformative power of eLearning platforms in unlocking efficiency in training cannot be overstated. By harnessing the accessibility, personalization, interactivity, and progress tracking capabilities of these platforms, individuals and organizations can save valuable time and achieve their learning objectives effectively. Through effective time management strategies and a commitment to lifelong learning, the mantra “Time is Money” resonates profoundly in the realm of training, paving the way for success in today’s dynamic world.
eLearning Platform FAQs
How can eLearning platforms save time in training?
eLearning platforms offer flexibility, personalized learning experiences, interactive content, and real-time progress tracking, enabling learners to optimize their time and achieve their training goals efficiently.
Are eLearning platforms suitable for all types of training?
Yes, eLearning platforms can accommodate various training needs, including professional development, compliance training, skill enhancement, and onboarding processes.
Can individuals track their progress on eLearning platforms?
Yes, eLearning platforms provide real-time progress tracking features, allowing learners to monitor their learning journey, track completed modules, and identify areas for improvement instantly.
How can organizations promote efficiency through eLearning platforms?
Organizations can promote efficiency by implementing structured learning schedules, utilizing time-saving tools and resources, setting clear learning objectives, and fostering a culture of continuous learning among employees.
What are some tips for effective time management in training?
Effective time management in training involves setting clear objectives, creating structured learning schedules, leveraging time-saving tools, and embracing continuous learning practices.
How do eLearning platforms contribute to lifelong learning?
eLearning platforms offer a diverse range of courses and resources, allowing individuals to engage in continuous learning beyond their initial training needs, thereby supporting lifelong learning initiatives.
In conclusion, eLearning platforms have revolutionized the training landscape, offering unprecedented opportunities to save time and enhance efficiency. By embracing the principles of effective time management and leveraging the features of eLearning platforms, individuals and organizations can unlock their full potential and achieve success in today’s competitive environment.
According to a report by McKinsey & Company, companies that leverage digital learning platforms experience a 50% increase in productivity compared to those relying solely on traditional training methods.
How Wranx Can Maximize Training Efficiency With Microlearning
Wranx, a leading online training platform, has proven to be a game-changer in boosting training efficiency. By harnessing the power of spaced repetition and microlearning, Wranx delivers personalized training tailored to individual needs. This approach ensures that learners are shown information at spaced intervals so they retain the information long term. This scientifically proven learning technique, combined with fun, engaging and quick quiz-style questions, makes Wranx approaching to educating employees not only unique but extremely successful.
Additionally, Wranx’s user-friendly interface and mobile accessibility enable learners to engage with training materials anytime, anywhere, maximizing their learning opportunities. With its data-driven insights and real-time progress-tracking features, Wranx empowers both learners and training managers to identify strengths and areas for improvement, allowing for continuous optimization of the training process. Overall, Wranx revolutionizes training efficiency by providing a dynamic and adaptive learning environment that accelerates knowledge, skills and enhances overall performance.
If you’d like to learn more about how Wranx can make training more efficient for your team, book a demo here.
Creating effective learning is a continuous challenge for corporate businesses. The introduction of new technologies has eased this by opening up more ways for employees to take part in workplace training, such as e-learning platforms, video learning, and virtual reality. Formal training has vastly progressed over the years, but there is room for improvement through assessments, and that’s where Certainty Based Marking (CBM) can have a huge impact on training and development.
Multiple-choice assessments remain the most common and convenient method of evaluation; scoring is quick and simple, multiple versions can be created and simple metrics highlight who knows the subject matter and who doesn’t. However, these traditional metrics aren’t completely reliable. They fail to demonstrate how training impacts the employees’ performance, their confidence, or how effectively knowledge is retained over time. Despite the convenience of multiple-choice assessments in terms of distribution and the metrics it provides, they are problematic. Multiple-choice assessments make it easier for the learner to guess the answer, rather than demonstrate that they know specific information.
Multiple-choice also tests the learner’s ability to recall information, as opposed to showing that the learner understands the answer’s application in real-life situations. For example, a salesperson might be taught their organization’s sales processes and be able to identify them correctly in a multiple-choice question, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that they’ll be able to remember that information independently and put it into practice in the workplace. Assessments help organizations understand their employees’ knowledge levels. By tracking the correlation between performance and training results, organizations can clearly see the impact training has had on their workforce. Additionally, there is a third metric that can also contribute to how effective training is: employee confidence. We have found that measuring a learner’s confidence in their knowledge is not only a good way to test how solid their knowledge really is, but it also provides a strong indication of how well a learner can put that knowledge into practice.
What is Certainty Based Marking?
Certainty Based Marking (CBM) can be utilized to evaluate assessments. Not only must learners indicate what they think the correct answer is, they must also rate how certain they are of it (from ‘High’ to ‘Low’). For example, if a learner gets the answer right with high certainty, they are sufficiently knowledgeable. However, if a learner gets the answer wrong with high certainty, the unique scoring system alerts organizations to any ‘confidently incompetent’ employees. CBM was theorized by Tony Gardner-Medwin, a professor of physiology at University College London in 1994. According to him, past experiments show that asking learners to indicate their confidence levels stimulate a higher level of thinking, which assists learning and recall:
“When properly set up, it motivates students to think carefully about whether they can see reasons for either sound justification or uncertainty about the answers they give in tests. It is particularly helpful as a study aid in self-tests, providing a stimulus and challenge, and a warning signal when misconceptions have arisen. But it has also been clearly shown to improve the statistical reliability and validity of assessment data.” CBM enhances traditional assessment approaches by measuring both competence and confidence. It also avoids false indications of accuracy, as learners are unable to simply guess the right answer. To encourage honesty from learners, the CBM assessment scoring system does not penalize for incorrect answers with low confidence. Therefore, organizations can be more confident that they’re getting an accurate reflection of a learner’s knowledge. In addition, unsure but careful thinkers are not deflated by receiving a minus score – they are actually encouraged because more considered responses receive higher marks.
Using Certainty Based Marking with Assessments
Employee competence is invaluable to an organization, but only as long as it lasts for the long term, otherwise, the organization could face negative consequences. Employee evaluation and assessments are commonly implemented as a one-off event when in reality they should be implemented consistently in order to successfully track employee’s knowledge levels. Assessments also help inform employers’ training decisions as it highlights the subject areas employees are struggling with. This allows training to be refined and for relevant modules to be delivered in a cost-effective way. To do this, Wranx uses pre and post-assessments in conjunction with CBM.
A pre-assessment determines the learner’s existing knowledge to act as a benchmark. Spaced Repetition training is then delivered over a given period and upon conclusion, the learner is assessed again to determine the impact of training on their knowledge. This is particularly useful for those falling below the pass-rate, as their progression becomes more clear. On average, using the AMA approach, we’ve found that learners improve knowledge levels by 25 points from pre- to post-assessment. By adding CBM into the mix means we see increased confidence, with high-engagement learners improving by 38% and even low-engagement learners improving by 20%.
So, as opposed to making assessments a one-off event, they can be delivered at certain time periods to continuously refresh and assess employees’ knowledge. Assessments also help determine the type and frequency of training delivered for each individual on the Wranx platform. Using analytics with assessments Another advantage of using CBM assessments is that they safeguard organizations by exposing employee knowledge gaps that could potentially be harmful. Wranx’s performance analytics can visually demonstrate to organizations a learner’s accuracy against their confidence. We call this the ‘knowledge quadrant’ – this places each learner into a specific category, depending on the two variables: Aligned – Learners who are accurately answering and doing so with high certainty and will likely be applied correctly in practice. These individuals would be considered masters of that knowledge domain, resulting in higher performance and productivity.
Misaligned – Learners who are somewhat confident in their answers. The individual believes their answer to be correct, but an element of doubt exists that may cause them to not act on that knowledge. Uninformed – Learners who have gaps in their knowledge but are aware of it. They are uninformed and are unlikely to act. Misinformed – A ‘confidently incompetent’ employee. This individual has knowledge that they confidently believe to be correct, but which is actually incorrect. Those who have confidence in wrong information will very likely make mistakes on the job, which could potentially put the organization at risk. Being able to see what category employees fit into will help inform future training decisions for an organization. More focused, relevant learning content can be delivered and close any previous knowledge gaps employees may have – which results in more highly and broadly skilled workforces.
Success in the Workplace with Certainty Based Marking
While new methods of learning and extending knowledge retention are being developed all the time, knowledge assessments remain one of the key areas that can be improved. Naturally, it’s important to guarantee employees learn effectively, but the next step should be to assess how well they can apply their newfound knowledge in the workplace – both effectively and with confidence. Wranx offers a unique approach to employee assessment through its use of Certainty Based Marking. As explored above, this method requires those being assessed to indicate how certain they are of an answer before proceeding. Not only does this highlight the learner’s ability to recall specific information, but it also provides employers with an understanding of how likely their staff are to implement that knowledge in a workplace scenario. One of our clients who has successfully implemented CBM is The North Face®; they used this technique to assess their employees’ knowledge levels and see the measurable benefits of training with Wranx.
Following a month-long module, The North Face® saw 80% of their learners improve their CBM score, meaning they were answering more questions correctly and with greater confidence. Being a retail organization, The North Face® focus was primarily on delivering product knowledge training. With such a high volume of information on a wide range of products, it’s crucial that their employees are able to successfully recall key information when speaking with customers. Through the addition of CBM assessments, The North Face® gained a deeper insight into how confident their staff were and which areas needed improvement. In a retail environment, this confidence level can be the key factor in guaranteeing sales.
The Wranx Approach to CBM
For a learner to be truly confident in their knowledge, they must be able to use that knowledge in a real-life situation – where it counts most. There is empirical evidence to prove that effective training, which supports knowledge retention and boosts confidence, has a measurable impact on performance and can vastly improve an organization’s success in the long term. The inclusion of Certainty Based Marking assessments fits perfectly into a Wranx training program. By delivering a month-long module between a pre and post-assessment, employers are provided with detailed insight into their learners’ abilities to perform their duties correctly in the workplace. This is a powerful metric – one that helps to safeguard against unnecessary and easily avoidable mistakes. Most importantly, it demonstrates the true ROI of Wranx training.
Interested in learning more about Certainty Based Marking (CBM) and how it can enhance your training initiatives?
