In this day and age, it is considered fairly unheard of to meet someone who does not have a good grasp on how to use a computer and how to do basic tasks. However, there are still many folks in the older generations who prefer to do things the old-fashioned way and may have never been in a situation where they had to learn. As an employer with a diversely aged workforce, this can pose potential issues when you transition to learning management software to assist with training needs. If you have several older employees in your workforce unfamiliar with using a computer, there are a few keys to keep in mind when introducing a new computer-based training program.
Invest in elearning software that is easy-to-follow and free from complexities.
Successful elearning is all about the simplicity of the software used. However, this is even more the case if you are training a group of employees with little or no computer experience. Make sure you keep this in mind when your software is in its development stages so you can help guide the developer to creating the most basic, easy-to-use system that will be friendly no matter what experience level a user may have.
Expect to have to teach basic computer skills if necessary.
Introducing a new e-learning program will only work if everyone can navigate the software correctly. Therefore, even if you have some users completely in the dark with computer usage, it will mean you will have to take the extra time to teach them basic skills, whether it is how to use a mouse or exit a screen. It is even a good idea to host a basic skills class for those who feel they need the instruction before you actually introduce the new training program to your workforce–especially if you are certain there are some users who will struggle.
Pair older and unfamiliar employees with younger employees during training sessions.
Even though the two may not see things in the same light or have the same skills, it is often ideal in the workplace to pair older employees with younger ones because each can learn from the other. This is especially true if you are in the process of introducing new training programs on the computer. When the first training programs are introduced, partner your older employees with those a bit younger so the more tech-savvy of the two can give pointers and directions.
For more information, contact companies like TOPYX.
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