10 Reasons why live training experiences are more effective than eLearning

and how to convince your stakeholders

Budget cuts, time constraints, and the relentless marketing of digital solutions mean that eLearning is often the go-to choice for training and development. Of course eLearning has its place: It’s fine for increasing knowledge, but if you want to drive behaviour change, develop skills, and keep people engaged, live training (whether in-person or virtual) is a better investment.

If you’re trying to persuade your stakeholders that bite-sized live training is a better approach that micro-elearning, here are ten solid, evidence-backed reasons to help make your case.

1. Live Training is More Engaging

Let’s be honest - how many times have you clicked through an eLearning module whilst scrolling social media or scanning emails? Research shows that interactive learning experiences, like live training, significantly increase engagement and attention (Sitzmann et al., 2006). People learn best when they’re actively involved, and that’s exactly what live sessions offer.

2. People Remember More

Ever completed an eLearning course and instantly forgotten most of it? You’re not alone. Studies show that social and experiential learning improves retention because it involves active participation and reinforcement (Brown, Roediger, & McDaniel, 2014). Live training allows for discussions, exercises, and real-world application, creating an experience that makes learning stick.

3. Instant Answers, Fewer Misconceptions

With eLearning, if something isn’t clear, learners are often left guessing. In live training, participants can ask questions, get immediate clarification, and leave with a solid understanding of the topic AND what it means for them. This increases the likelihood that learning will be transferred to the workplace (Hattie & Timperley, 2007).

4. Social Learning Leads to Better Results

Bandura’s Social Learning Theory (1977) highlights the power of learning from others. Whether it’s through group discussions, shared experiences, or role-playing, live training helps people learn not just from the facilitator, but from each other - something eLearning simply can’t replicate. It’s one of the reasons why peer-learning communities (like the Training Designer’s Club) are so powerful.

5. It’s the Best Way to Tackle Complex Topics

Some things just can’t be learned by clicking ‘Next.’ When training involves problem-solving, decision-making, or interpersonal skills, live training is essential. It provides a safe space to discuss challenges, test ideas, explore concepts where there isn’t one right way of doing something, and gain practical experience (Merrill, 2002).

6. People Actually Complete It!

eLearning completion rates are notoriously low. Why? Because self-paced learning requires self-discipline, and when work gets busy, it’s easy to put off. Live training, however, ensures learners show up, engage, and get the full benefit of the session (Deci & Ryan, 1985 – Self-Determination Theory).

7. It Drives Real Behaviour Change

Watching a video on how to give feedback isn’t the same as actually practising it. Research shows that live training, particularly when it includes role-playing and practice, leads to greater behaviour change in the workplace (Salas et al., 2008). If the goal is to improve performance, live training is the way to go.

8. Builds Teamwork and Collaboration

Live training fosters stronger relationships, team cohesion, and shared learning experiences. In a virtual or hybrid work environment, these opportunities to connect are invaluable. Psychological safety research (Edmondson, 1999) shows that when people feel comfortable discussing ideas and learning together, workplace performance improves.

9. Encourages Reflection and Critical Thinking

Live training isn’t just about absorbing content - it encourages reflection, discussion, and critical thinking. These are the skills that help employees apply what they learn, rather than just ticking a box (Brookfield, 1987).

10. It’s Simply More Enjoyable!

People enjoy learning when they feel involved. When training is engaging and enjoyable, learners are more likely to apply what they’ve learned, making it a better investment overall (Kirkpatrick, 1994). Even introverted people benefit from hearing other perspectives – it doesn’t always have to be about high energy exercises.

Make Live Training Easy with Ready-Written Bite-Size Sessions

You know that live training is the best way to drive results, but let’s face it - not everyone has the time to create engaging, structured sessions from scratch. That’s where our ready-written bite-size training materials come in.

Designed to be engaging, practical, and easy to deliver, they help you bring the benefits of live training to your organisation without the heavy lifting.

So, if you need a compelling argument for live training - or a fast-track way to implement it - take a look at our ready-made sessions and get started today!