What happens in online technical training?
In online technical training, students can watch live or recorded talks that cover in-depth analysis of applications, solutions, and the overall process industry. Online technical training can also include interactive sessions where students can ask questions and participate in discussions in real time.
Benefits of Online Technical Training
Online technical training is beneficial because it is flexible, convenient, cost-effective, accessible, and easily updated. It can be conducted on any schedule, from anywhere in the world. As an online activity, technical training is accessible to a large audience. For companies, online technical training can be beneficial because it often costs less than in-person training. The digital format can facilitate instantaneous and ongoing access to key resources. Content can be easily updated so all team members can have the latest technical information.
Limitations of Online Technical Training
Online technical training is limited because it lacks practice-based learning opportunities. Technical training involves hands-on practice, controlled environments, and specific equipment. While online technical training can thoroughly cover theories, present numerous facts, and include detailed demonstrations, it does not readily facilitate the transfer of practical, kinesthetically-acquired knowledge that is critical for technical professions. Students learning from home do not have access to the tools, instruments, and conditions they work with on the job. For technical training, online learning is insufficient because it does not allow for hands-on experience.
Online Technical Training Resource
TechStar’s T3 Library is an online distance learning resource filled with an abundance of technical expertise. The TechStar Technical Talks highlight technical aspects of industries such as Oil & Gas, Water/Wastewater, Food & Beverage, Pharmaceutical, and more. Additionally, the online resource page invites customers to schedule 1:1 calls or video conferences with a TechStar expert to discuss a specific application, sensor, or anything regarding your process or facility, at a time that is convenient for you.
What happens in hands-on technical training?
In hands-on technical training, attendees can receive interactive instruction that is dynamic, involves real equipment, and stages life-like simulations. Hands-on technical training can be designed to closely mimic real world scenarios and conditions.
Benefits of Hands-on Technical Training
Hands-on technical training is beneficial because it provides realistic, low-stakes opportunities to learn, troubleshoot, and test critical processes. Furthermore, hands-on technical training facilitates experiences that directly translate to the skills and techniques that must be applied in the workplace. The in-person training sessions can be highly interactive and purposefully focused to achieve desired outcomes. Because students get to practice skills and receive immediate feedback, the hands-on learning experience is meaningful.
Limitations of Hands-on Technical Training
Hands-on technical training is limited because it requires specific equipment, a controlled environment, and attendance at a scheduled session. Because of the specificity involved, it may not be as accessible or flexible as online training. Additionally, hands-on technical training can sometimes cost more money than online training.
Hands-on Technical Training Facility
TechStar’s Functional Verification Unit, THE UNIT, is a hands-on technical training facility that duplicates process conditions so companies can solve issues, troubleshoot, and test in a controlled environment. The technical resources at THE UNIT create custom-tailored, process specific training for companies to onboard new personnel, train employees for specific products, and conduct mandatory recertification to maintain compliance.
Hands-on vs Online Technical Training: A Comparison
When exploring online vs in-person technical training, it can be helpful to view a summary of the key differences between the two.
|
Online Technical Training |
Hands-on Technical Training |
|
|
Accessibility |
Can be available anywhere, anytime |
Must be conducted at a specific place and time |
|
Cost |
Generally less expensive |
Generally more expensive |
|
Content |
Technical facts, theories, and process demonstrations. Live discussions and chats are available in live-streamed training sessions or video conferences. |
Technical facts, theories, process demonstrations, live feedback, tactile experimentation, real-time equipment troubleshooting, compliance recertification, and more |
|
Setting |
Students use a computer or mobile device to watch training sessions conducted remotely. |
Sessions can occur in a classroom, laboratory, or factory |
|
Experience |
The information can be informative and instructive, but does not allow for participatory practice that closely mimics real life. |
The experience can be designed to simulate real-world conditions, processes, and situations. Students practice practical skills and techniques. |
Check Out Our Technical Training Courses
When considering online vs hands-on technical training, both approaches can deliver valuable information to students and technical professionals looking to improve their skills. However, for technical professions, hands-on training is better because it facilitates experiences that are directly applicable to the working environment.
As the leading manufacturing representative for instrumentation, automation, analytical products, customer service, and training, TechStar offers both hands-on and online training resources. TechStar’s state of the art, fully functional live unit, THE UNIT, hosts interactive training sessions specifically tailored to meet your company’s process requirements. TechStar’s T3 Library provides a comprehensive program of online training courses and invites companies to book video conferences focused on specific topics. TechStar University offers in-person technical training courses on the various industrial automation solutions that TechStar sells. For all of your technical training needs, TechStar is your one-stop-shop.