Supplemental learning is crucial for online learners due to the evolving speed of learner needs. The demand for new courses is increasing in eLearning, corporate training, and individual industries. However, limited resources make it challenging for instructors and developers to provide high-quality learning materials in a timely manner. Supplemental learning offers a solution by providing additional resources complementary to the primary training program.
Supplemental learning refers to learning resources that enhance the value of the core training program by allowing learners to delve deeper into specific topics. These resources can take various forms, such as online articles, eBooks, videos, podcasts, webinars, and practice exercises. By adding supplemental learning resources, instructors can update and enrich their courses, increase learner engagement, and improve learning outcomes.
There are six benefits of supplemental learning for online learners:
1. Promotes a deep understanding of the course: Supplemental learning allows learners to explore topics in more detail, catering to their personal interests or professional development needs.
2. Supports different learning preferences: By presenting information in various formats, supplemental learning resources appeal to a broader range of learners with different learning preferences.
3. Encourages self-directed learning: Supplemental learning empowers learners to take control of their learning journey, fostering skills such as critical thinking, time management, and accountability.
4. Boosts knowledge retention and application: Interacting with learning material in different formats enhances knowledge comprehension and retention, bridging the gap between theory and practice.
5. Helps test learners’ skills and knowledge: Supplemental learning resources provide opportunities for learners to assess their understanding and identify areas for improvement.
6. Promotes a love for lifelong learning: By encouraging learners to explore subjects they are interested in and stay informed about trends, supplemental learning fosters a mindset of continuous learning.
In conclusion, supplemental learning is essential for modern online learning. By incorporating supplemental learning resources into online training courses, instructors can enhance the learning experience, cater to a wider audience, and improve learning outcomes. Embracing supplemental learning can increase the flexibility of online courses and prepare learners to adapt to new technologies and information in their academic and professional lives.