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Paulette Black
Balance Learning
(617) 230-9348
pauletteblack@balancelearning.com

John Neely

(978) 745-4878
john@hawthornemedia.com

Online, Classroom, and On-the-Job Training Effectively Integrated

May 19, 2003

Salem, MA -- Balance Learning™ is introducing to the U.S. corporate training market the first truly blended learning approach during the International Conference and Expo of the American Society for Training & Development (ASTD). Balance Learning's courseware employs a three-step approach, combining e-learning, classroom training and on-the-job activities, to deliver both efficient training and effective results.

In spite of optimistic forecasts, online learning has not displaced a significant amount of instructor-led training, let alone a significant amount of OJT, the most common but least recognized form of training. In reaction, attention is shifting from online learning to blended learning. But, what is "blended"?

"In the rush to create blended learning programs, some companies have simply combined existing classroom workshops with existing e-learning courses," said Chris Horseman, Managing Director of Balance Learning. "We're offering a new generation of built-from-scratch, fully-integrated blended programs. These enable organizations to improve workplace efficiency by delivering the optimum combination of technology-based training, instructor-led techniques and action-centered learning."

Each Balance program offers a state-of-the-art e-learning course (which learners use to build knowledge), workshop materials (which trainers use in the classroom to help learners develop their skills) and workplace activities (which learners undertake to put their new skills into practice). "The three phases, which we call 'Dimensions,' are seamlessly integrated," continued Horseman. Our software, along with extensive printed learner's materials and trainer's guides, enables the trainer to survey and assess learner needs, schedule and monitor the completion of e-learning, develop customized classroom materials and plan and assess post-course activities."

Each program starts with a highly interactive e-learning course that provides the base level of information that learners will need before going on. This Knowledge Dimension features video scenarios, interactive quizzes, online glossaries, clear navigation and a full search facility. Sophisticated online pre-tests ensure that each learner takes only the portions of a course that they actually need. Because the course is customized for every student, it provides the maximum benefit in the minimum time, most often less than two hours.

But the Knowledge Dimension is only the beginning. "The key to each program's success as blended learning," emphasizes Horseman, "lies in the two additional pieces." In the first, the Skills Dimension, learners who have finished the online sections enroll in instructor-led workshops to turn their knowledge into skills. The program's resources include a full set of customizable PowerPoint slides, a trainer's script in Word format, exercises, role plays and a choice of related media resources, such as short video clips.

Then, after completing classroom activities, learners enter the Action Dimension, which requires each learner to implement practice activities in their real life situations. Instructors can monitor progress after assigning an activity each week for six or eight weeks.
The entire Balance Learning approach has been accredited by ILM, the Institute of Leadership & Management.

Balance Learning is introducing two programs in its Leading Work Teams portfolio: Leadership and Teamwork, and Facilitating Team Communication. Two courses in the Essential Customer Service portfolio will be available soon.

About Balance Learning Balance Learning brings an enormous amount of experience to the table. Managing Director Horseman served as president of McGraw-Hill Lifetime Learning, managing all worldwide operations, and previously as managing director of Xebec. He and fellow founders, Kim Whitmore and Dean Lock, built the premier soft skills computer-based training library at Xebec. Now they are applying their experience and skill to build the best trainer and learner-focused blended learning.
Balance Learning is headquartered in Gloucestershire, England, with offices in Salem, Massachusetts, and Basel, Switzerland. Its initial programs are available in British and American English versions, with additional languages planned. In addition to team leadership and customer service, Balance is currently developing training programs to teach presentation skills and management techniques.

People wishing to learn more about Balance Learning or to take a course demo should visit the company's website at www.balancelearning.com. Balance Learning can be reached in the U.S. by calling 617-230-9348 or in the U.K. by calling 44(0) 1453 769 601. Chris Horseman can be e-mailed at chrishorseman@balancelearning.com.