Online CPR Training is trendy, but is it right for your organization?
Professional training continues to move online and CPR is no exception. ILCOR and the AHA continue to more strongly recommend online-driven technologies like RQI and virtual reality training. While RQI and VR are still out of reach for most, this trend (along with the last two years) has shifted the new normal to blended training.
Blended learning combines a self-paced online course with a hands-on practice and test with an instructor or an instructorless manikin. This mode of learning has become part of an overall trend for security companies to bring their training “in-house” essentially having internal staff run their CPR training program and directly connect their training and testing records to their LMS or HR software.
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Despite the shifts in the industry, before jumping on the bandwagon there are a few things you should consider to determine if this training setup is right for you.
Your company size
How many people work at your company?
Unless you already have manikins and an instructor on staff, if you train fewer than 30 staff annually it doesn’t make sense to have an in-house program. You can call a local fire department or hospital to find an instructor. Alternatively, a 100% online class might be a good option.
If you have enough staff, your time and cost savings from having an in-house program will quickly pay off any startup cost you may incur. More than that, if you train more than 100 staff a year, a blended, in-house program will help you more if any of the following issues applies to you.
Your in-house training team responsibilities
What is your in-house training team focused on?
Already have a CPR instructor on staff? If so, your next step depends on what else they do. Switching to blended training undoubtedly requires less of the instructor's time. Most internal CPR instructors also train other subjects and have a plethora of other job responsibilities. If that’s not the case, then you may want to keep your current program as-is for now.
Your workforce location
Is your team in a central location or spread out?
Already have a CPR instructor on staff? If so, your next step depends on what else they do. Switching to blended training undoubtedly requires less of the instructor's time. Most internal CPR instructors also train other subjects and have a plethora of other job responsibilities. If that’s not the case, then you may want to keep your current program as-is for now.
Your hiring frequency
Do you hire new team members regularly?
If you’re hiring a lot (from growth or turnover), this makes it impossible to keep all your staff certifications synched up. This is where both blended, inhouse CPR programs shine. First, it makes tracking spread out certifications a lot easier. Especially If it’s connected to your LMS or HR records. Secondly, you don’t need to fill up a class to get time savings from a blended course.
On the other hand, if you hire rarely and you’ve been able to get your staff training synchronized, sticking with the fully classroom model can work for you.
Your current satisfaction
Are you satisfied with your current CPR training outcomes?
Is your staff engaged during CPR training? Do they leave the class feeling ready and confident in their skills? Hopefully yes, but if the answer is no or sometimes, then blended learning gives your students AND your trainer some tools to improve student outcomes.
Self paced learning is hugely beneficial to most students. In addition, time with your instructor, while shorter, becomes more personalized to the student and focuses on the top level skills within CPR. Some students and instructors thrive in the blended learning environment.
Your Results
Awesome—this is a high match for a blended online model. Want to learn more about implementing a blended online CPR program into your organization? Find out how this model can significantly save time and money while streamlining your work.
Is blended learning right for your organization?
Ultimately, it depends on your organization… Just because something is gaining in popularity doesn’t mean that it’s the right thing right now.
However, if you identify with 2 or more of these items, then maybe it’s time to seriously consider adding this to your training toolbelt.
Want to explore getting a blended, in-house and integrated program more? Click here.