8 types of virtual training to try out in 2025

Recently updated on November 8th, 2024

More training providers are offering virtual training than ever before. From virtual instructor-led sessions to immersive simulations, the possibilities for virtual training are expanding, giving you more opportunities to tailor your approach to diverse learning styles and preferences.

In this quick guide, we run through some of the different types you can try out to liven up the training you offer you in 2025

Let’s jump straight in 👇

Types of Virtual Training – 8 to Consider for Your Training Business

1. Virtual Instructor-Led Training (ILT) – All the Benefits of ILT, Just in a Virtual Format

Virtual Instructor-Led Training (VILT) involves real-time, online sessions led by a qualified instructor, closely simulating the experience of a traditional classroom environment.

In these VILT sessions, participants can interact directly with the instructor and each other. The format allows for dynamic discussion, immediate Q&A, and real-time feedback, creating an engaging and interactive setting ideal for skill development.

Virtual ILT is particularly effective for learners who benefit from structured guidance and active, real-time participation, making it a great alternative to on-site instructor-led training.

Benefits of Offering Virtual-Instructor Led Training for Training Providers

• Reach a larger audience: Delivering VILT means you can reach participants globally, and a broader audience than local face-to-face training.
• Increase capacity: Unlike face-to-face training, which is limited by classroom size, virtual training can accommodate an unlimited number of students.
• Reduce costs: Virtual training eliminates venue and catering expenses, which can low your overall training costs.
• Retains the benefits of instructor-led training: : VILT allows for real-time interaction with the instructor, enabling immediate clarification of doubts, personalized feedback, and dynamic discussions, just like in a traditional classroom setting.

Tips for Implementing Virtual Instructor-Led Training (ILT)

Select the right platform

Choose a stable, interactive platform such as Zoom, with features like breakout rooms, polls, and Q&A. Make sure it’s secure, scalable, and offer pre-session tutorials to help participants navigate its functions.

Design interactive content

Use multimedia elements, breakout sessions, and live polling to promote engagement. Keep learners actively involved with quizzes and group activities that mirror real-world applications.

Prepare instructors for virtual facilitation

Train instructors on virtual-specific skills, including pacing, managing online discussions, and troubleshooting common technical issues to maintain energy and engagement.

Establish a supportive learning environment

Set clear guidelines on participation, provide access to session recordings, and have technical support available throughout to make sure of a smooth learning experience for all participants.

Many of our customers at Arlo, run in-person instructor led training, and virtual instructor led training, you can learn how a training management system facilitates both forms of training in our ultimate guide to training management systems

2. Self-Paced eLearning – Help Your Learners Learn On-The-Go!

Self-Paced eLearning provides learners with pre-recorded courses that they can complete independently at their own pace. 

Often these self paced courses are hosted through a learning management system, training providers can also use eLearning authoring tools to create their own eLearning courses.

This format of asynchronous learning is particularly well-suited for knowledge-based subjects that do not require live interaction or immediate feedback. Learners can access training materials on demand, allowing them to learn at a time and pace that best fits their schedule. 

Benefits of Offering Self-Paced eLearning for Training Providers

A scalable training deliver method

Self-paced eLearning allows training providers to reach a larger audience, you can sell eLearning to an unlimited number of learners regardless of their location, and they can access the courses anytime, anywhere.

Consistent course quality

With self-paced eLearning, training providers can that all learners receive the same high-quality content and instruction.

Easier content updates and maintenance

With eLearning you can quickly update course materials to reflect any new information or industry standards without needing to reschedule live sessions. 

Tips for Implementing Self-Paced eLearning

Develop engaging, high-quality content

Use eLearning authoring tools to create multimedia-rich content that combines videos, infographics, and assessments. Structure modules to be concise and interactive to maintain learner interest and improve retention.

Prioritize regular content updates

Keep materials relevant by scheduling periodic reviews and updates to reflect the latest information or industry changes. An LMS makes it easy to refresh content for all users simultaneously.

Provide learner support and guidance

Offer resources like FAQs, discussion forums, and optional live Q&A sessions to assist learners. Providing support channels helps keep learners engaged and addresses questions that may arise during self-paced study.

3. Blended Learning – Deliver the Right Training Delivery Format Every Time

Blended learning combines live instructor-led sessions with self-paced learning modules. It’s a widely used training format, with many training providers offering courses that contain in-person, virtual, and eLearning modules.

The benefits are that it integrates the benefits of structured, real-time instruction with the convenience of on-demand content, and training providers can select the format for which sessions or modules to run based on which works best for them and learners.

Benefits of Offering Blended Learning for Training Providers

Efficient use of resources

Training providers can focus their time and resources where they are most needed. For example, complex topics can be taught in live sessions, while basic information can be covered through self-paced modules, making the best use of instructors’ time.

Adaptable course design

Blended learning allows providers to easily adjust their courses based on feedback or changing needs. They can find the right balance between live and online content, so that their courses remain effective and relevant.

Tips for Implementing Blended Learning

Match content to the right format

Decide which topics are best suited for live instruction (e.g., complex concepts needing discussion) versus self-paced modules (e.g., foundational knowledge).

Create a cohesive learning experience

Use a unified training platform to manage both live and self-paced training modules, the platform you use should make it easy for you to create and schedule both in-person and virtual training.

Engage learners in both formats

Encourage interaction through live Q&A, group discussions, and collaborative projects in instructor-led sessions, and enhance self-paced modules with interactive elements like quizzes, case studies, and checkpoints.

4. Webinars – Inexpensive, Scalable, and Interactive

Webinars are one-time virtual seminars centered on a specific topic or skill, designed to provide quick, targeted knowledge sharing. 

Typically conducted through video conferencing, these virtual sessions often include a live Q&A segment, enabling participants to interact with the presenter and gain immediate insights. 

Webinars are ideal for covering niche topics or timely subjects, making them a popular choice for organizations looking to deliver concise, impactful virtual training programs to a broad audience.

Benefits of Offering Webinars for Training Providers

Cost-effective delivery

Webinars significantly reduce overhead costs associated with traditional training methods. They eliminate expenses related to venue rentals, travel, and physical materials, allowing training providers to offer their services at competitive prices while maintaining healthy profit margins

Expanded market reach

Webinars enable training providers to connect with a geographically diverse audience simultaneously. This expanded reach can significantly increase the potential client base, allowing providers to grow their business beyond local markets

Scalability

Webinars can accommodate large numbers of participants, you just need to make sure that the webinar platform you use and your subscription is set up to handle the amount of registrants you require.

Tips for Implementing Webinars

Select a reliable webinar platform

Choose a platform that can handle high attendee numbers, supports interactive features like live Q&A and polling, makes it easy for learners to register and provides a smooth, stable experience.

Zoom is the platform we typically recommend to our customers who are looking to deliver webinars. You can learn how to use Zoom effectively in our complete guide to Zoom for training providers.

Focus on concise, high-impact content

Webinars are best suited for short, targeted topics, so structure your content to be concise and engaging. Use visual aids, case studies, and examples to make complex information easier to understand within a limited timeframe.

Promote engagement through interaction

Encourage real-time engagement by integrating polls, Q&A, and chat features to keep attendees engaged, offer immediate feedback, and help gauge audience understanding and interest in specific topics.

Potential additional revenue streams

Recorded webinars can be packaged and sold as on-demand content, creating new revenue opportunities. Training providers can repurpose successful live webinars into products that continue to generate income long after the initial broadcast, effectively monetizing their expertise multiple times.

5. Microlearning – Break Training Down Into Short-Bite Sized Chunks

Microlearning consists of short, focused online training modules that teach specific skills or concepts in quick, easily digestible sessions.

It’s a great approach for on-the-go learners who need targeted, efficient lessons that fit into their schedules. Training providers can use microlearning to offer concise, self-paced modules as part of their eLearning courses.

Bite sized modules can be easier for learners to absorb, research also suggests that L&D professionals report that bite-sized learning modules were preferred by their learners.

So, when you’re designing or producing an eLearning course consider what topics can be broken down into smaller chunks to start incorporating microlearning.

Benefits of Using Microlearning for Training Providers

Microlearning is efficient to produce 

Microlearning modules are typically shorter and more focused, reducing the resources needed for development and delivery. 

Higher engagement rates

Short, bite-sized learning formats keep learners more engaged and reduce cognitive overload, leading to increased participation and better retention of information.

Flexibility in deliverability 

Microlearning can be easily integrated into existing training programs or delivered as standalone modules, offering providers the flexibility to meet diverse client needs and learning preferences.

Scalability

Training providers can easily scale microlearning initiatives to accommodate a larger audience without significant increases in costs or resources, allowing for broader reach and impact.

6. Simulations and Scenario-Based Training – Prepare Learners for Real-World Scenarios

Simulations and scenario-based training involve interactive virtual exercises that replicate real-world situations; they’re a great way to provide learners with a safe, controlled environment to practice essential skills. 

They’re a training approach particularly valuable in fields like healthcare, health and safety, construction, crisis management, and technical industries where practical experience is vital.

Benefits of Using Simulations and Scenario-Based Training for Training Providers

Realistic skill application

Simulations allow learners to practice skills in environments that closely mimic real-life situations, enhancing their ability to apply knowledge effectively when faced with actual challenges.

Immediate feedback 

Participants receive instant feedback during simulations, allowing them to understand their mistakes and correct them in real-time, which accelerates the learning process.

Customizable learning experiences

Training providers can tailor scenarios to reflect specific organizational challenges or industry requirements, helping to make sure that the training is relevant and directly applicable to the learners’ roles.

Improved risk management

Allowing learners to encounter and navigate potential crises or hazardous situations in a controlled environment, training providers can better prepare them for real-world risks without the associated dangers.

Tips for Implementing Simulations and Scenario Based Training

Engage with subject matter experts for relevant scenarios

Use subject matter experts and front-line employees to craft realistic, job-relevant scenarios that reflect actual workplace situations and challenges.

Use blended learning where appropriate

Integrate scenario-based elements into existing eLearning courses and learning management systems to provide a blended approach rather than standalone simulations.

7. Interactive Video Training

Interactive video training uses video content with added elements that require viewer participation. These elements can include:

• Multiple-choice questions appearing at key points in the video
• Clickable hotspots that reveal additional information
• Branching scenarios where viewers choose what happens next
• Short tasks or exercises related to the video content

Putting interactive elements into training videos turns passive video watching into an active learning experience.

For example, a safety training video might pause and ask the viewer to identify potential hazards in a scene. Or a customer service training could present a scenario and ask the learner to choose the best response.

Interactive video training is particularly useful for:

• Compliance training, where comprehension checks are important
• Soft skills development, allowing practice of decision-making
• Technical training, where learners can interact with simulated equipment

Benefits of Using Interactive Video Training for Training Providers:

Increased engagement and retention

Interactive video’ training increases ‘s can increase engagement and retention of information by learners, helping them stay attentive and retain knowledge longer compared to passive content.

Progress tracking and comprehension insights

Video enables training providers to track learner progress and comprehension through built-in assessments, providing real-time insights into learner understanding and skill gaps.

Scalable, cost-effective training method

Like other forms of virtual training, interactive video is a cost-effective way to deliver high-quality, consistent training at scale, reducing travel and instructor costs while giving learners widespread access to quality training.

Tips on Implementing Interactive Video Training

Strategically place interactive elements
Space out interactive elements throughout the video, with the first interaction ideally appearing within the first 1-2 minutes, and incorporate diverse elements like clickable hotspots, drag-and-drop activities, and branching scenarios to engage different learning styles.

Motivate with gamification
Use gamification techniques such as points, badges, and leaderboards to motivate learners, adding a fun and rewarding layer to the training experience that enhances engagement and completion rates.

8. Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) Training –

Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) training immerse learners in virtual environments that replicate complex, real-world scenarios.

These training methods create engaging, interactive simulations that are especially beneficial for high-risk or specialized areas such as healthcare, aviation, and technical operations. 

Similar to virtual labs, learners can practice skills in a safe, immersive setting, helping their ability to apply knowledge effectively in real-life situations.

Benefits of Offering AR and VR for Training Providers

Competitive advantage

Incorporating cutting-edge AR and VR technologies into training programs sets providers apart from competitors still relying solely on traditional methods. This technological edge can be a key differentiator in attracting forward-thinking clients and securing contracts

Increased training effectiveness

AR and VR create immersive, interactive learning experiences that boost engagement and knowledge retention. Providers can leverage these technologies to deliver more impactful training outcomes, leading to higher client satisfaction and repeat business

Cost-effective content creation

While initial investment may be required, AR and VR content can be easily replicated and scaled across multiple training sessions. This allows providers to create high-quality, reusable training materials that reduce long-term costs.

Tips for Implementing AR and VR Training

Begin with simple AR and VR pilot projects
AR and VR can sometimes be tough to get started with. Start small by creating a few basic AR or VR training modules as pilot projects. This approach lets you test the effectiveness of immersive training without a large initial investment, and it helps identify what works best for your clients.

Choose a user-friendly AR/VR development platform
Select a development platform that’s easy to learn and doesn’t require extensive coding skills. Many platforms offer drag-and-drop tools, allowing your team to quickly create and modify training content without needing specialized technical knowledge.

Invest in basic AR/VR equipment for testing
To begin, purchase a few affordable AR and VR devices for testing and development. Entry-level VR headsets and mobile-based AR solutions can help you understand the technology and experiment with initial concepts before making larger hardware investments.

Focus on a single use case to start
Identify one specific use case where AR or VR can solve a training challenge, such as safety simulations or equipment handling. Focusing on a single area makes it easier to develop a targeted solution, measure results, and refine your approach before expanding to other areas.

Virtual Training Best Practices to Keep In Mind

Now you know some of the types of virtual training you can look at offering, keep these general best practices in mind:

1. Prepare your sessions

Make sure you take the time to run through the virtual training session before you deliver it. Do a few test runs of the session to make sure you’re happy with the flow, the delivery and that all your tech is working correctly.

2. Create thoughtful session structures

Try to break training sessions into short segments, ten minutes to half an hour each, broken up by short breaks. Avoid going longer than 60 minutes without a breather, and never go longer than 90. Include time for introductions, Q&A, and final thoughts.

3. Invest in high-quality tech

As we’ve mentioned a few times, you need the right tech to be able to deliver virtual training. If you’re a training provider looking for a platform to create, schedule, sell/take bookings and deliver virtual training start with a TMS like Arlo.

More ‘everyday’ types of tech you’ll need include: HD webcam, Microphone, Headset (w/ microphone), Lighting (e.g., ring light) and of course High-speed Wi-Fi.

Other resources to check out

If you’ve enjoyed learning about some of the different types of virtual training you can offer, you’ll enjoy the Arlo blog which is packed full of articles and tips for delivering great training, some standout resources to check out:

• Take a deep dive into other popular training delivery methods you can consider offering your learners in our guide to training delivery methods
• Learn the risks and drawbacks of relying on manual training management processes in our guide to training management
• Our round-up of the best virtual classroom platforms
• Finally, read some of our customers stories to discover how we’ve helped training providers increase their course revenue by 300+%.

Also, if you’re a ready to try out the #1 training platform for creating, scheduling, and delivering virtual training, you can get started with a 14-day free trial of Arlo 👇

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