UK Training Industry Press Releases

ILM Centre JBE Training & Development has created the next step in management training provision - a Virtual Training Centre (VTC).

The VTC is a virtual training facility in which learners can ‘walk around' - in a manner not dissimilar to a computer game or online networking sensation ‘Second Life'.

For the first time this allows ILM qualifications to be accessed through an exciting and stimulating virtual environment where delegates learn and develop irrespective of their geographical location.

The VTC cuts out any inconvenience, expense and non-productive time associated with travelling to a real world training establishment. In addition it offers unlimited flexibility in time usage allowing learners to undertake a programme at any time of the day, whenever it is most convenient for them.

Flexibility is the key as the VTC can be used as a complete distance-learning tool or as a blended learning tool to reinforce the learning experience gained through face-to-face delivery.

Within the VTC, delegates can access programmes that combine video, PowerPoint presentations, images/photographs and written or practical exercises - it is the nearest alternative yet to ‘real' training.

Unique learner identities allow access to programmes and support relevant to their role and as all course delivery and progress are managed by a central server, tutors and delegates can review progress on line, in real-time, whenever they choose.

This is particularly relevant to shorter courses where travel and the loss of productive employment can be greater than the length of the course itself.

In addition to the training, the VTC enables a new way of networking between learners and allows for tutors to feed back directly or answer questions raised. The learner / tutor relationship is personalised further through video conferencing from within the 3D environment, so tutors and delegates can see, hear and communicate with each other.

In addition to the delegate benefits, organisations can also benefit from the flexible delivery platform. JBE can brand the VTC for organisations who wish to use it to use it as their internal training and development resource.

Commenting on the VTC, Mark Bowes, Marketing Manager at JBE said:

"We view the VTC as a great way to enrich our key offering of Institute of Leadership & Management programmes and qualifications. The new ILM unitised portfolio is opening up new opportunities for JBE and having a blended learning tool of this calibre is not only differentiating us from other providers it is also allowing us to offer all units within the portfolio. It is a compelling addition to our quality training and development solution and will improve the engagement, retention and success of learners.

"JBE Training & Development has taken a ‘giant leap' in advancing distance learning for ILM qualifications and this is only the beginning."

Penny de Valk, ILM's CEO added:

"Using technology to sharpen and enhance learning methodology is critical if we are to embrace an integrated approach to learning"

A show reel of the VTC can be seen by visiting: http://www.jbetraining.co.uk/business/virtual_training.html