Face-to-Face or Face-to-Screen: Is Classroom, e-Learning or Webinar Safety Training Right for You?
6 Dec, 2022

Everyone learns differently. Even in adulthood. Some are well-suited to an in-person classroom setting with structured training timetables where peer engagement is encouraged. Others prefer the freedom of a self-driven learning environment that allows them to progress at their own pace. Much like school kids,  how you learn is one of the most important factors behind an Occupational Health, Safety and Environment professional’s success or failure when earning a health and safety qualification.

Fortunately, there’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to how people comprehend information.

Learning styles can be different, but achieve the same successful results. And SafetyCloud has catered to that. Our qualifications and upskilling courses are available in three distinct study formats – classroom, e-learning and webinar, each catering to different training requirements, learning styles of individuals and their changing lifestyle needs.

What Are My Study Options?

Classroom Training follows the traditional set-up of face-to-face lectures in a physical classroom environment. HSE classroom training typically involves students personally attending sessions inside a computer lab at 1 of 15 NOSA colleges around South Africa with an expert/trainer present who follows a pre-set course timetable. Using resources such as whiteboards, projectors, laptops and other resources, the trainer guides and explains course content following dedicated lesson plans, and answers student questions whenever needed.

e-Learning, also known as online learning, takes place over the internet. A flexible study option that caters to busy schedules and remote students, it enables individuals to connect to their course material on the SafetyCloud Student Portal online and engage in self-study whenever and wherever they want, at their own pace. When the e-learning timeframe ends, students undertake an examination to obtain their certification. SafetyCloud offers over 100 safety training e-learning programmes, including SAMTRAC, the world’s leading workplace risk management qualification.

A webinar is an online training option that delivers lectures, talks and training sessions using video-conferencing software. It is a form of face-to-screen study where multiple remote learners can view and interact with a host, if live-streamed. Webinars can also be pre-recorded and enable health and safety course content to be accessed on demand. Unlike e-Learning, SafetyCloud webinars follow a lecture-style presentation.

How Do I Know Which Study Format Is Right For Me?

Determining whether Classroom Training, e-Learning or Webinar will work best for you comes down to self-reflection and an assessment of your current lifestyle needs. Ask questions of yourself such as: Do I enjoy studying alone? Do I prefer to have someone explaining concepts to me? Am I the kind of person that will procrastinate with the flexibility of e-Learning? Which study format works best with my busy work and home-life schedules? Is classroom training possible in my geographical location or do I need to consider a webinar or e-learning instead?

Consider all aspects of your personality, lifestyle, availability and learning style when deciding between Classroom Training, e-Learning or Webinar. This thought process will be unique to you, and will help you make a confident choice on which learning option is best for you.

The Benefits of Each Study Format

Why Choose SafetyCloud Classroom HSE Training?

  • Engagement with lecturers and industry experts in-person for questions and real-time answers
  • Greater focus on learning materials (no distracting calls, texts or social media allowed in the controlled environment)
  • Peer interaction that promotes knowledge sharing
  • Promotes greater critical thinking
  • More opportunities for sensory stimulation study
  • Networking opportunities will like-minded professionals
  • Structured and immersive learning experience
  • Access to specialised study spaces, facilities and on-campus resources
  • Ability to be hands-on
  • 15 NOSA colleges nationwide

 

Why Choose SafetyCloud HSE e-Learning?

  • Flexibility and freedom to study from the comfort of the workplace or home
  • Time-saving from no commute to classes
  • Study at your own pace
  • Control over your training timetable
  • Courses built by industry experts
  • Relook coursework without slowing other students down
  • Consistent access to resources
  • Supports an individual learning style and need
  • Course access via mobile devices
  • No location-based study limitations

 

Why Choose HSE Webinars?

  • Online instructor-led teaching without in-person class attendance
  • Cost-effective learning tool
  • Electronic availability of course materials / manuals that can be re-watched as needed
  • Watch webinars from any location
  • Learn from industry experts
  • Interaction through anonymity (for students who prefer not to be recognised)
  • Effective digital learning experience
  • Easy to access

 

At SafetyCloud we know that providing pathways for students that cater to their learning styles is imperative for success. That’s why, at every stage of our journey, we work hard to provide you with the best opportunities for a successful health and safety career, enhanced and supported by internationally recognised qualifications.