6 Ways Custom eLearning Helps Build Problem-Solving Skills

In a world where challenges arise unexpectedly, problem-solving skills are the armor that protects businesses from uncertainty. Traditional training methods, often linear and passive, struggle to equip employees with the agility needed to navigate complex situations. Custom eLearning, on the other hand, offers a dynamic and interactive approach that fosters the critical thinking and decision-making abilities essential for success. This blog explores the six key ways in which custom eLearning can enhance problem-solving skills and equip employees for success in the ever-evolving workplace.

→ Download eBook: Scenario-Based Learning to Master Real-World Problem Solving

Table of Contents

• What is Custom eLearning and Why is it Different?
• Can Custom eLearning Really Help Build Problem-Solving Skills?
• What Are the Different Ways in Which Custom eLearning Helps Build Problem-Solving Skills?

In a world characterized by rapid change and unexpected challenges, problem-solving skills are more crucial than ever. The ability to think critically, analyze complex situations, and devise effective solutions is a valuable asset for both individuals and organizations. Unfortunately, traditional training methods often fall short in fostering these essential abilities.

Limitations of Traditional Training:

• Passive Learning: Lecture-based formats and rote memorization can lead to disengagement and hinder the development of critical thinking skills.
• Lack of Practical Application: Traditional training often focuses on theoretical knowledge, leaving employees unprepared to apply their learning to real-world situations.
• One-Size-Fits-All Approach: Traditional training rarely accommodates individual learning styles or paces, limiting its effectiveness in building problem-solving skills.

Custom eLearning: A Tailored Solution

Custom eLearning offers a dynamic and personalized approach to developing problem-solving skills. By tailoring training content to specific needs and incorporating interactive elements, custom eLearning can create a more engaging and effective learning experience.

Consider a company facing a significant drop in sales. Traditional training might focus on providing employees with a list of potential causes and solutions. However, custom eLearning could create a simulated scenario where employees are tasked with analyzing sales data, identifying trends, and proposing strategies to address the decline. This interactive approach allows employees to practice problem-solving skills in a safe and controlled environment, building their confidence and competence.

In the following sections, we will explore the specific ways in which custom eLearning can help develop problem-solving skills and equip employees for success in the modern workplace.

What is Custom eLearning and Why is it Different?

Custom eLearning offers a personalized online training experience aimed at addressing the unique objectives and requirements of both organizations and individuals. Unlike off-the-shelf eLearning solutions, which offer generic content, custom eLearning is tailored to address the unique challenges and requirements of a particular audience.

Custom eLearning vs. Off-the-Shelf Solutions:

The Benefits of Custom eLearning:

• Improved Relevance: Custom eLearning ensures that the content is highly relevant to the learners' roles and responsibilities.
• Enhanced Engagement: Interactive elements and personalized learning paths can increase learner engagement and motivation.
• Measurable Outcomes: Custom eLearning allows for the tracking and measurement of learning outcomes, providing valuable data for continuous improvement.
• Scalability: Custom eLearning can be easily scaled to accommodate a growing workforce or changing corporate training needs.
• Return on Investment: While the initial investment in custom eLearning may be higher than off-the-shelf solutions, the long-term benefits in terms of improved employee performance and reduced costs can make it a worthwhile investment.
• Competitive Advantage: Custom eLearning can give organizations a competitive advantage by providing employees with the skills and knowledge they need to excel in their roles.

Custom eLearning is a powerful tool for developing problem-solving skills and equipping employees for success in today's rapidly changing business environment. By tailoring content to specific needs, incorporating interactive elements, and providing personalized learning paths, custom eLearning can create a more engaging and effective learning experience.

Can Custom eLearning Really Help Build Problem-Solving Skills?

Custom eLearning, with its ability to tailor content and experiences to specific needs, offers a powerful solution for developing problem-solving skills. By incorporating interactive elements, scenario-based learning, and gamification, custom eLearning can create an engaging and effective environment for fostering critical thinking and decision-making abilities.

The Inherent Benefits of Custom eLearning for Problem-Solving:

• Tailored Content: Custom eLearning ensures that the content is highly relevant to the learners' roles and responsibilities, providing a direct connection between learning and practical application.
• Personalized Learning Paths: By adapting to individual learning styles and paces, custom eLearning can help learners develop a deeper understanding of problem-solving concepts.
• Interactive Elements: Custom eLearning can include numerous interactive components like simulations, case studies, and games, offering learners a chance to develop problem-solving skills in a safe and structured setting.
• Measurable Outcomes: Custom eLearning allows for the tracking and measurement of learning outcomes, providing valuable data for assessing the effectiveness of the training program and identifying areas for improvement.

What Are the Different Ways in Which Custom eLearning Helps Build Problem-Solving Skills?

1. Interactive Learning Activities

Interactive learning activities play a crucial role in developing problem-solving skills. By providing learners with opportunities to practice applying their knowledge in various problem scenarios, these activities help them develop the critical thinking and decision-making abilities necessary to succeed in today's complex workplace.

Branching Scenarios:

Branching scenarios in custom eLearning are interactive learning experiences that allow learners to make choices and follow different paths based on their decisions. This enables learners to explore various outcomes and consequences, helping them understand the impact of their choices on problem-solving situations.

Example: A branching scenario could present a learner with a customer complaint. The learner would then be given options to respond to the customer, with each choice leading to a different outcome. This allows the learner to experiment with different approaches and see how their decisions affect the situation.

Drag-and-Drop Activities:

Drag-and-drop activities require learners to manipulate objects or information on a screen to solve problems. These activities can help learners develop spatial reasoning, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.

Example: A drag-and-drop activity could involve a puzzle where learners must arrange pieces to solve a problem. This activity requires learners to analyze the pieces, identify patterns, and make logical connections.

Decision-Making Simulations:

Decision-making simulations offer learners practical scenarios that challenge them to make choices and assess the outcomes of those choices. These experiences can enhance critical thinking skills, improve information analysis, and empower learners to make well-informed decisions.

Example: A decision-making simulation could involve a business scenario where learners must decide how to allocate resources to maximize profits. This requires learners to consider various factors, such as market trends, costs, and potential risks.

By incorporating interactive learning activities into their custom eLearning programs, organizations can offer learners interactive and impactful chances to hone their problem-solving skills and develop the confidence they need to succeed in today's challenging business environment.

2. Video-Based Learning with Real-World Examples

Video-based learning can be a powerful tool for developing problem-solving skills by providing learners with real-world examples of how to approach and solve complex challenges. By showcasing practical applications of problem-solving techniques, video-based learning can help learners connect theoretical knowledge to real-world situations.

The Effectiveness of Video-Based Learning:

• Enhanced Engagement: Videos can be more engaging than traditional text-based materials, capturing learners' attention and making the learning process more enjoyable.
• Visual Learning: Videos allow learners to see problem-solving techniques in action, making it easier to understand and remember the concepts.
• Real-World Context: By showcasing real-world examples, video-based learning can help learners understand the practical implications of problem-solving strategies.

Expert Interviews and Case Studies:

Expert interviews and case studies can be particularly effective in demonstrating practical approaches to problem-solving. By hearing from experts in the field, learners can gain valuable insights into how to approach and solve complex challenges.

• Expert Insights: Expert interviews can provide learners with valuable advice and guidance on problem-solving techniques.
• Real-World Examples: Case studies can showcase real-world examples of how problem-solving techniques have been applied successfully.
• Different Perspectives: By hearing from experts with diverse backgrounds and experiences, learners can gain a broader understanding of problem-solving strategies.

Incorporating Video-Based Learning into Custom eLearning Programs:

• Create High-Quality Videos: Ensure that videos are professionally produced and visually appealing to maintain learner engagement. Tools like Vyond are a great option for this.
• Choose Relevant Topics: Select topics that are directly relevant to the learners' needs and interests.
• Provide Supporting Materials: Offer additional resources, such as transcripts or discussion questions, to help learners reinforce their learning.

By effectively utilizing video-based learning, organizations can design custom eLearning programs that engage employees and enhance their problem-solving abilities and succeed in today's competitive business environment.

Here's a case study for you to explore: A Case Study on Safety Training for a Manufacturing Major

Scenario-Based Learning: Mastering Real-World Problem Solving

Cultivate Critical Thinking and Problem-solving Skills with Scenario-based Learning!

• Types of Scenarios
• When to Use Scenarios and When to Refrain
• Tools and Best Practices for Crafting Scenarios
• And More!

Download eBook

3. Gamification and Points Systems

Gamification techniques can be a powerful tool for motivating learners and encouraging them to experiment with different approaches to solve problems. Integrating game-like features into custom eLearning programs allows organizations to enhance engagement and create a more effective learning experience.

Motivating Learners:

• Intrinsic Motivation: Gamification can tap into learners' intrinsic motivation by providing a sense of accomplishment, recognition, and challenge.
• Increased Engagement: Game-like elements can make learning more enjoyable and engaging, leading to increased learner participation and retention.
• Positive Reinforcement: Points systems and rewards can provide positive reinforcement, encouraging learners to continue their efforts and strive for improvement.

Encouraging Experimentation:

• Risk-Taking: Gamification can create a safe and supportive environment where learners can experiment with different approaches to problem-solving without fear of failure.
• Trial and Error: By providing opportunities for learners to try different strategies, gamification can encourage them to explore different solutions and learn from their mistakes.
• Creativity: Gamification can foster creativity and innovation by encouraging learners to think outside the box and develop unique solutions.

Points Systems and Leaderboards:

Points systems and leaderboards can create a sense of healthy competition and enhance engagement. By tracking learners' progress and rewarding achievements, these elements can motivate learners to strive for excellence.

• Competition: Leaderboards can create a sense of friendly competition, encouraging learners to outperform their peers and strive for top scores.
• Recognition: Points systems can be used to recognize learners' achievements and provide a sense of accomplishment.
• Motivation: The prospect of earning points and climbing the leaderboard can motivate learners to continue their efforts and improve their skills.

Organizations can enhance engagement and effectiveness in their custom eLearning programs by integrating gamification techniques that helps employees develop their problem-solving skills and succeed in today's competitive business environment.

4. Scenario-Based Learning: A Powerful Tool for Problem-Solving

Scenario-based learning is a dynamic approach to education that immerses learners in realistic situations, fostering the development of critical thinking, decision-making, and problem-solving skills. By providing multiple choices and consequences, it encourages exploration, learning from mistakes, and building confidence.

Key Benefits:

• Real-world application: Connects theoretical knowledge to practical situations.
• Critical thinking: Encourages learners to analyze information, evaluate options, and make informed judgments.
• Decision-making: Provides opportunities to practice making choices and experiencing the consequences of those decisions.
• Problem-solving: Develops effective strategies for identifying and addressing challenges.

Effective Scenario-Based Learning:

• Realistic situations: Creates scenarios that closely resemble real-world challenges to enhance relevance and engagement.
• Multiple choices: Offers learners a variety of options to explore different approaches and outcomes.
• Consequences: Demonstrates the impact of decisions, allowing learners to understand the potential consequences of their choices.
• Exploration: Encourages learners to experiment with different strategies and approaches.
• Learning from mistakes: Provides opportunities for learners to learn from their errors and make better decisions in the future.
• Confidence building: Creates a safe environment where learners can experiment and develop their problem-solving abilities without fear of failure.

Scenario-based learning is a valuable tool for equipping learners with the skills they need to succeed in today's complex world. By immersing learners in realistic situations and providing opportunities for exploration and growth, scenario-based learning empowers individuals to become effective problem-solvers and critical thinkers.

5. Collaborative Learning Activities and Group Discussions

Custom eLearning can be designed to foster collaborative learning activities and group discussions, providing learners with opportunities to interact with their peers and learn from different perspectives. This approach can enhance problem-solving skills by encouraging learners to share ideas, challenge assumptions, and work together to find solutions.

Facilitating Collaborative Learning:

• Online forums and discussion boards: Create online platforms where learners can engage in discussions, share ideas, and ask questions.
• Virtual breakout rooms: Divide learners into smaller groups for focused discussions and problem-solving activities.
• Collaborative projects: Assign group projects that require learners to work together to achieve a common goal.

Benefits of Peer-to-Peer Problem-Solving:

• Diverse perspectives: Collaborating with peers exposes learners to different viewpoints and approaches to problem-solving.
• Shared knowledge: Working together allows learners to share their knowledge and expertise, leading to more comprehensive solutions.
• Enhanced engagement: Collaborative activities can increase learner engagement and motivation.
• Improved communication: Working in groups can help learners develop effective communication skills.

By incorporating collaborative learning activities into custom eLearning programs, organizations can create a more engaging and effective learning experience that helps employees develop their problem-solving skills and work effectively in teams.

6. Rapid Development and Agile Learning

Custom eLearning for training enables rapid eLearning development and agile learning approaches, allowing for quick updates and adjustments based on learner feedback. This ensures that the content remains relevant and addresses the real-world problems faced by employees.

Rapid Development:

• Modular design: Custom eLearning can be developed in modular components, allowing for easier updates and changes.
• Authoring tools: Advanced authoring tools like Articulate or Captivate can streamline the development process, reducing the time required to create and update content.
• Rapid prototyping: Prototyping can help identify and address potential issues early in the development process.

Agile Learning:

• Iterative development: Agile learning involves iterative development cycles, allowing for continuous improvement and adaptation based on feedback.
• Flexibility: Custom eLearning can be easily adapted to changing business needs and learner requirements.
• Continuous improvement: By gathering feedback and making adjustments, custom eLearning can be continuously improved to ensure its effectiveness.

Benefits of Rapid Development and Agile Learning:

• Relevance: By quickly updating content based on feedback, custom eLearning can ensure that it remains relevant and addresses the latest challenges.
• Effectiveness: Agile learning allows for continuous improvement, ensuring that the training program is effective in meeting its objectives.
• Efficiency: Rapid development can reduce the time and cost required to create and update eLearning content.
• Learner satisfaction: By responding to learner feedback and making adjustments, custom eLearning can improve learner satisfaction and engagement.

Rapid development and agile learning are essential for ensuring that custom eLearning programs remain relevant, effective, and responsive to the needs of learners and organizations. By embracing these approaches, organizations can create training programs that are tailored to their specific requirements and provide employees with the skills they need to succeed in today's dynamic business environment.

Scenario-Based Learning: Mastering Real-World Problem Solving

Cultivate Critical Thinking and Problem-solving Skills with Scenario-based Learning!

• Types of Scenarios
• When to Use Scenarios and When to Refrain
• Tools and Best Practices for Crafting Scenarios
• And More!

Download eBook

BONUS!!

Custom eLearning and Performance Tracking and Immediate Feedback

Custom eLearning enhances learner engagement by providing real-time performance tracking and immediate feedback through interactive features like branching scenarios and gamification. These tools ensure learners receive timely support, reinforcing learning and building essential problem-solving skills.

Performance Tracking

Analytics and Reporting

• Tracks learners' choices, progress, and completion rates in real-time.
• Identifies specific decision points where learners struggle, enabling targeted interventions.

Skill Gap Identification

• Analyzes patterns in learner performance to detect areas needing improvement.
• Enables personalized follow-ups for learners to revisit content where they made incorrect choices.

Immediate Feedback through Interactive Learning

Branching Scenarios

• Learners receive feedback based on the choices they make in scenario-based exercises.
• Wrong decisions trigger hints or alternate paths, helping learners understand consequences and learn from mistakes in real-time.

Gamification Elements

• Quizzes and tasks offer instant feedback, awarding points, badges, or rewards to reinforce correct responses.
• Adaptive difficulty keeps learners motivated by providing additional challenges or support based on performance.

Benefits of Real-Time Feedback and Gamified Tracking

• Improved Retention and Engagement: Immediate feedback helps learners internalize concepts faster and keeps them motivated throughout the course.
• Practical Application through Simulated Scenarios: Learners practice real-world problem-solving skills in a safe environment where mistakes become learning opportunities.
• Efficient Learning Paths: Adaptive feedback tailors the learner journey, ensuring they spend more time on weak areas while advancing faster through familiar topics.

Custom eLearning’s ability to provide instant, actionable feedback through branching scenarios and gamification transforms training into an engaging, personalized experience. This approach ensures that learners are not just passively consuming content but actively applying knowledge, honing skills, and staying motivated.

How to Partner with Industry Leaders for Rapid Custom eLearning Solution?

Parting Thoughts

Custom eLearning offers a powerful solution for developing problem-solving skills in employees. By tailoring content to specific needs, incorporating interactive elements, and providing personalized learning paths, custom eLearning can create an engaging and effective learning experience.

Key Takeaways:

• Personalized Learning: Custom eLearning allows for tailored content and personalized learning paths, ensuring that employees receive the training they need to succeed in their roles.
• Interactive Elements: Interactive elements such as simulations, case studies, and gamification can enhance engagement and facilitate learning.
• Real-World Application: Scenario-based learning provides opportunities for employees to practice problem-solving skills in realistic situations.
• Continuous Improvement: Custom eLearning allows for rapid development and agile learning, ensuring that training programs remain relevant and effective.
• Measurable Outcomes: Performance tracking and personalized learning paths enable organizations to measure the effectiveness of training and identify areas for improvement.

L&D professionals should explore custom eLearning solutions to enhance their corporate training programs and develop employees' problem-solving skills. Download our eBook, "Scenario-Based Learning: Mastering Real-World Problem Solving," to learn more about how to effectively incorporate scenario-based learning into your custom eLearning programs.