Efficient knowledge transfer thanks to blended learning

The website is the most important information and sales platform for the automotive group and its customers. There are over 100 local versions of it worldwide. Much of the content is created at headquarters. However, much of the content must subsequently be adapted in the sales companies for the local market, because the Group often introduces new models in the individual countries at different times and does not offer all models in every country. In addition, the website has to comply with legal requirements such as data protection regulations, which can also vary from country to country.

To enable the international sales companies to make all the necessary adjustments on their own, the car manufacturer had introduced a new content management system (CMS). Web-based training was used to impart the basic knowledge to the users. More detailed information and short instructions were provided by so-called guides and explanatory videos, which were made available online. Nevertheless, the learning success fell short of expectations.

It became clear that the practical relevance of the new CMS was missing because the employees learned using simulated application environments. In addition, the web-based trainings were designed as passive learning formats. This meant that the users could not ask individual questions and did not receive feedback on their personal learning success. As a result, the learners lacked a personal sense of achievement.

To improve learning success, the company brought corporate learning specialist tts on board. Based on an analysis of the most frequent support requests, tts first evaluated the existing concept and its formats. This showed that the web-based trainings and guides worked, but needed to be didactically developed further in order to actively involve the users.

tts therefore suggested linking e-learning offers with classroom training in the form of virtual classrooms. This has the advantage that participants can communicate directly with the trainer or with each other and ask questions, just like in a real classroom. In close consultation with the client, tts derived the learning content for the virtual classroom from the support requests, which provided a clear indication of the biggest knowledge gaps.

The training sessions are conducted by an expert from the automotive group and an experienced trainer from tts, who methodically accompanies the virtual classroom training and can intervene in a supportive manner or lead sessions himself if necessary. The online tool GoToWebinar is used for the sessions. Here, participants can also speak up during the seminar, while the trainer shows case studies, guides exercises and offers help and direct feedback on the learners' contributions. For follow-up and consolidation of the learning material, the participants receive accompanying exercises.

For the employees, the virtual classroom training is voluntary. This, and above all the new interactive possibilities, ensure rapid learning progress. The participants actively participate, are more motivated and follow the training courses with greater attention than under the previous concept. And because the training sessions in the virtual classroom are limited to ten participants, the trainers can personally supervise and individually support each one.

The blended learning concept of tts has convinced the company all along the line. All employees who have already undergone training are enthusiastically embracing the new learning format. Now that the training sessions on the most important topics related to the new CMS for the website have taken place, tts and the automotive group are working on new virtual classroom training sessions.

At the same time, further guides are being created that employees can use to prepare and deepen their knowledge. The goal of the concept is to encourage employees to learn on their own - a process in which tts continues to actively support the client.