Comparing face-to-face and technology-based training to evaluate its perceived effectiveness in improving employee performance

Abstract

For several decades, the ideal and preferred traditional training delivery in organisations mainly comprised in-person, face-to-face training, and engagement. The twenty-first century introduced the Fourth Industrial Revolution, which witnessed great strides in technology and introduced technology-based and online training. This online method of training and development surged when the global COVID-19 pandemic came about in 2020 and made it necessary and imperative due to social distancing protocols. This foresaw the emergence of technology-based training within several organisations’ training environments globally, enabling and increasing flexible learning for employees. Although technology-based training is considered a desirable and revolutionary training method, its efficiency is based on individuals’ perceptions thereof, with many still favouring the traditional face-to-face training approach as part of their preferred learning style. This has raised the debate on whether organisations can transition from the traditional face-to-face training approach to a Technology based training approach and still enable staff to perform at an optimal level.