ITIL Online Training: Great or Not So Much?
by Guest Blogger, Linda King
I read Julie’s earlier blog entry on ‘Will online ITIL training widen the gap?’ with interest. Inspired by a tweet from Stephen Mann at Forrester, Julie wrote a compelling piece on how the current rise of online ITIL training could even further separate real world from the
theoretical.
Personally, I have very strong feelings about this. Whilst it is fantastic news that ITIL training is on the rise, and I have no doubt that online availability of this training is a key factor in this increase, there remains a stark fact.
Much of the ITIL online training available in the market lacks creativity and fails to use the best current technology to create a “2012” training experience.
Many online training providers, in their rush to bring an offering to market, have created ‘experiences’ that are nothing more than automated powerpoint presentations with copious notes. I am frankly amazed that anyone manages to pass certification examinations in this way, as the theoretical has been delivered with little or no context to the bigger picture of the business.
The even more annoying fact... there is no reason why ITIL online training should be boring! Just look at the world around us... immersive tools and technologies surround us. Augmented reality, mobility, gaming platforms, iPad apps.. the list is endless. As a community we have been handed the tools and technologies to create learning experiences that could fully immerse and engage the learner, helping them learn their theory in absolute context.... and perhaps even have (dare I say it), some fun in the process!
So, when searching for an online provider, look for maximum interactivity combined with a strong overall vendor innovation profile. It's that interaction that will drive better learning outcomes and stronger overall information retention.
It’s time we used the technology we have at our fingertips to create some positive deviance in this industry. And until then... mind the gap.
Linda King works for G2G3, the IT readiness and simulations provider. As well driving the marketing and communications function for G2G3, Linda also heads up the G2G3 client delivery function around IT communications programs. Follow Linda on Twitter at @g2g3, or find out more at www.g2g3.com.
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