CAD Tech News (#143)
4 Feb, 2021 By: Cadalyst StaffViewpoint: Is Self-Paced eLearning a Shortcut to CAD Software Knowledge?
A shortcut implies a quicker way to achieve a goal. Does bypassing instructor-led training accomplish that? Or is a combination of the two training types more effective?
By Paul Burden
Many people wonder, Is there a way to learn CAD software that is faster than attending instructor-led training? It’s a valid question, especially since we are often tasked with multiple projects and tight deadlines.
I came across a Tweet recently that implied “traditional learning,” whatever that is, is “dead”! Perhaps unsurprisingly, this claim was made by someone deeply involved in the production of self-paced eLearning. I can see the benefits of self-paced eLearning, where someone develops CAD software skills without ever leaving the office or speaking with an expert ... but is there really no place for traditional learning? What about a combination of the two?
For a variety of reasons, more and more companies and individuals are looking to self-paced learning methods as alternatives to instructor-led training. As everyone seeks the quickest route to develop skills and reach proficiency, demand has increased, and so too has the variety of options and providers.
This demand is driven by many factors: No one can deny that it is costly to take an employee away from the office and out of production for multiple days. The use of multimedia and interactive content is attractive and can be engaging. I also believe that software companies encourage the movement toward self-paced learning, because it fuels the perception that they are modern and current and that their software is easy to use.
My own feeling is that self-paced learning with tutorial manuals and online resources can absolutely be a faster way to learn how to use CAD software for some individuals, in some circumstances. I also believe there is still a place for classroom-based instructor-led training. This all comes down to the simple fact that we don’t all learn the same way. Read more »
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