Getting personal with training: Why learning at a distance need not be “remote”

Abstract

Purpose

To study the impact on human resource development of the advances in computer‐based distance learning, and whether organizations that could benefit are taking the opportunities offered.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors have studied the growth of web‐based distance learning (WBDL), which they describe in its different forms, and discuss its implementation.

Findings

The authors advocate the benefits to organizations of training their employees by the use of computer‐based knowledge delivery, but not to the total exclusion of the more traditional classroom‐based training. Advances in computer‐based technologies have facilitated many innovative methods of training, which can increase the value of employees as a strategic asset to the organization in building and maintaining competitive advantage. The authors emphasize the flexibility of WBDL, but caution that it might not be the right solution for all situations.

Practical implications

To ensure that WBDL is a worthwhile investment for an organization, it is important to have an implementation plan that is specifically tied to an organization's business strategy. The authors emphasize the flexibility of WBDL, but caution that it might not be the right solution for all situations.

Originality/value

An organization could use WBDL in the right circumstances as shown as a flexible medium for teaching in the organization.

Citation

(2005), "Getting personal with training: Why learning at a distance need not be “remote”", Development and Learning in Organizations, Vol. 19 No. 2, pp. 26-27. https://doi.org/10.1108/14777280510580726