When working closely with technology, or when employees use software as part of their daily roles and responsibilities, technology training courses should be a regular inclusion in any learning and development strategy. By overlooking the need for technology training it risks your employees using outdated practices or not having the knowledge to use the latest software or hardware.

Why it’s important to learn about technology

Technology is always changing and evolving, so by neglecting to learn about tech your employees risk impacting their productivity, their creativity, and their efficiency.

Workplace technology is there to make your employees' jobs easier, which in turn means they produce better work faster, and you deliver the very best results for your clients. If employees don’t have the skills or knowledge necessary to operate technology it can have a negative impact on the work they produce. Online technology courses ensure employees have everything they need to solve problems, speed up processes, and make lives easier for themselves, your business, and your customers.

How to learn about technology

There are several different ways your employees can learn more about technology:

• Manuals - some software will come with user notes or manuals that teach them the basics. However, some software is simply too complex or updates are implemented so regularly, so instructions may become complicated or outdated.
• Books and videos - pre-produced materials can be great resources for beginners or those looking to answer specific questions. Unfortunately, they can become outdated quickly.
• Classroom learning - classroom-based learning can be useful, however, it can also be expensive and time-consuming, particularly if employees are looking to learn a lot of information.
• Work shadowing - sitting with a senior employee to learn directly from them can be useful when learning in short bursts or simple applications but can be time-consuming if attempting to learn complicated tech.
• eLearning - eLearning is a great tool that allows students to learn as and when they have the time. Courses can also be interactive and use a variety of learning techniques, helping with retention.

The benefits of taking a technology course

Technology courses have a plethora of benefits for both your business and your employees.

Benefits to your business

• Improved productivity - when employees know how to use complex (and even simple) software and hardware it increases productivity.
• Focused processes - when tech is used correctly it leads to streamlined processes and more efficiency.
• Fewer mistakes - with full training employees make fewer mistakes.
• Less downtime - training ensures employees get work done faster and don’t waste time waiting for help from tech support or colleagues.
• Lower staff turnover - employees who receive regular training are less likely to seek alternative employment. Upskilling your existing staff is also much cheaper than recruiting new employees.

Benefits to your staff

• More confident - employees who receive regular training are more confident, which improves their productivity and proactivity.
• More motivation - when employees have the skills and knowledge they need it gives them more motivation to excel.
• Feel valued - when you provide regular training your employees feel more valued.
• Convenient - eLearning is convenient and flexible, so employees can learn without the added pressure of neglecting their day-to-day responsibilities.

How long does it take to complete a technology course?

Technology training courses can take a varying amount of time to complete depending on the level of training and the complexity of the topic. For example, the Fundamentals of Full Stack Web Development course takes around 30 hours to complete as it’s complex and in-depth, whereas other courses may focus on a single topic and take less than an hour.

One of the major benefits of eLearning is, even if a course takes around 30 hours to complete, it can be picked up and put down as and when the employee has the time. Online technology training can also be accessed on any device and at any time, so even learning during the morning commute is possible.

Why eLearning is a great way to learn about technology

Not only is eLearning a convenient, flexible, and easy way for even the busiest employees to learn and develop, there are many other reasons why your business should consider it.

Up-to-date

Unlike printed materials, eLearning courses can be updated quickly and easily by industry experts. That means, as technology advances, so do online courses.

Cost-effective

Because eLearning materials have already been produced, they’re far more cost-effective. They’re also scalable, so whether one employee or an entire team is learning, it’s completely budget-friendly.

Teaching methods

eLearning allows a variety of different teaching methods and techniques to be used, from interactive quizzes to gamification, which means employees retain what they learn.

What are the best technology courses for your employees?

Tech and information technology courses cover a huge range of topics and experience levels.

Technology courses for web design and development

• Learning Python
• Fundamentals of Full Stack Web Development
• Angular Web Development
• Modern Web Development By Example
• Introduction to Web Design

Technology courses for data analysis

• Mastering Data Analysis
• SQL for Business Intelligence
• Big Data Analytics
• Introduction To Data Analytics Using Microsoft Power BI

Technology courses for computer science

• Cloud Computing Fundamentals: Storing and Managing Cloud Data
• Learning AWS Lambda
• Machine Learning 101 with Sklearn and Stats Models

Technology courses for design and animation

• Introduction to Graphic Design
• Graphic Design Fundamentals: Getting Started
• Houndville Animated Workplace Series

Technology courses for networking and security

• Cyber Security for the End User Beginner
• Cyber Security Awareness
• IT Networking Essentials
• Fundamentals of Computer Networking

Can anyone take an online technology course?

Absolutely, information technology courses for beginners and experienced professionals cover topics that allow employees of any level to learn and upskill. eLearning courses are also useful for those looking to get into the industry by learning more about hardware and software.

Interested in taking a technology course online with Go1?

Go1 has a selection of courses your employees can access right now to improve their skills and knowledge in various technology topics. For more information on how Go1 can support your business’s learning and development program, book a demo with a member of our team today.