What is a Learning Modality?

Learning modalities are the sensory channels or pathways through which individuals give, receive, and store information. Perception, memory, and sensation comprise the concept of modality. In training, modalities represent different delivery methods of learning through which learners’ skills are developed. The five most common learning modalities are the following:

1. Live Instructor-led Training (ILT) – Traditional method using a facilitator or trainer.
2. Online Training (eLearning) – Training is available as needed at any time.
3. Webinar or Virtual Training (VILT) – Training is available at specific times.
4. Blended Learning – A combination of ILT with VILT and/or Online Training
5. Train-the-Trainer – Traininginternal trainers to deliver ILT or VILT

Choosing a Modality

With so many options to choose from, many may wonder how to choose the right modality. To select the training modality that works best, it is necessary to understand the goals of the training in terms of the desired business results, the target audience and the desired learning objectives. Here are some tips to make the best choice:

• Content – Content is the main criteria for choosing a modality. The method of learning must be compatible with the learning itself. If interaction is necessary, ILT or VILT training may be your best option. If memorization is critical, online learning with ongoing reinforcement may work best.

• Audience – The function, seniority level, position, age range, and experience level of the learners are important facets of a learning modality selection. Questions that must be answered include:
  • Who needs the training
  • Why they need it
  • What they already know
  • What they need to know

• Training Goal – The purpose of the training determines where and how the learning will be applied. The training goals encompass the needs identified by the organization and what metrics will be used to determine training success. The type of skill and level of proficiency required will also impact training goals.

• Context – Understanding the context in which learners will be learning is crucial to modality selection. Context includes the physical location, time constraints and technological access of your employees. If the entire workforce is working from home, then ILT might not make much sense logistically, and VILT could suffice. If the learners are part-time employees, then on-the-job training could eliminate the need to find a window in everyone’s busy schedule.

Blended Learning

Studies show that memory improves when more than one sense is stimulated at the same time. Using multiple modalities can have the same effect and is advantageous for a number of reasons:

• Combining conceptual learning with skill reinforcement helps cut down on the forgetting curve.
• Practice opportunities over time paired with coaching feedback contributes to deep learning.
• Some learning requires physical input and/or muscle memory, and a purely informational approach is insufficient.

Organizations often select multiple modalities as part of a blended learning approach. Blended learning brings together traditional and digital learning techniques to create a fully comprehensive program that can fit any learner’s needs. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution for learners, which is why a blended learning program may be the right option.