Revolutionize your enterprise training with asynchronous learning platforms
Executive Summary: In today’s fast-paced business environment, employee training is critical for organizational success. Asynchronous learning platforms are a great option for managers looking to streamline their training processes. This blog delves into the key differences between synchronous and asynchronous learning. It also highlights the benefits of asynchronous learning platforms. Moreover, this blog offers a comprehensive list of the top 10 asynchronous learning platforms for corporate training. The list of platforms includes details on their features, pros and cons, and pricing.
Tom had just landed his dream job at a large consulting firm. He was excited about the job, but was a bit nervous about the mandatory training he had to complete. Tom thought he was expected to attend in-person training sessions, in addition to his regular working hours. As this could be time consuming, Tom was worried about balancing work and family responsibilities.
When Tom expressed his concerns to his manager, she informed him about the company’s asynchronous learning platforms. She said the platform would allow Tom to complete the training on his own time and pace. He was apprehensive as he had never used asynchronous learning platforms before. However, his manager assured him that it was user-friendly and would make his training easier and more flexible.
When Tom started using it, he was pleasantly surprised. The platform was easy to navigate, and he could access the training material from his laptop or mobile device. He was able to complete the training during his free time, which helped him balance work and family responsibilities.
In the end, Tom completed the training on time and felt confident in his ability to do his job. This was thanks to the asynchronous learning platforms. It allowed him to complete the difficult training on his own terms!
People forget nearly 90% of what they have learnt within just 7 days, unless the concepts are reinforced. That’s why employees swamped with documents, presentations, and classroom sessions are not likely to learn much.
However, time constraints make it difficult to reinforce vast concepts.
What can you do instead? Arm your employees with one concept at a time. Studies show the human attention span is only 8.25 seconds, so keep your training concise.
RapL is your software for that.
Happy employee pursuing training at his own pace
As we saw in Tom’s case, asynchronous learning platforms are a great way to deliver corporate training. They provide flexibility and convenience for employees. Employees can access the training material on their own time and at their own pace, allowing them to balance work and personal responsibilities. This also ensures they have a thorough understanding of the material before moving on.
Understanding the difference between asynchronous learning and synchronous learning is important. This allows organizations to choose the most effective training approach based on their employees’ needs. Let’s take a look at the differences between asynchronous learning and synchronous learning.
Asynchronous learning v/s Synchronous learning
Synchronous learning requires employees to attend live, instructor-led sessions at a scheduled time. While synchronous learning can be more engaging and interactive, it may not be as flexible or accommodating of individual schedules.
The table below captures the differences between synchronous and asynchronous learning:
Table 1: Asynchronous Learning v/s Synchronous Learning
Characteristic | Synchronous Learning | Asynchronous Learning |
Timing | Employees must participate in real-time sessions at a scheduled time. | Employees can access the learning material at any convenient time. |
Pace | Requires employees to keep up with the pace of the instructor and the class. | Allows employees to progress through the material at their own pace. |
Interactivity | Live interactions with the instructor and other employees. | In the form of quizzes, assessments, and discussion forums. |
Location | May require employees to attend training sessions at a specific location or classroom. | Typically delivered online, so employees can access the learning material from any location with an internet connection. |
The choice depends on employee needs and organizational preferences. Asynchronous learning platforms are flexible and convenient, making them a great option for organizations. Let’s take a more in-depth look at the benefits of asynchronous learning platforms.
Benefits of Asynchronous Learning Platforms
- Flexibility and convenience for employees and instructors: One of the primary benefits of asynchronous learning platforms is the flexibility and convenience they offer employees and instructors. Employees can access the training material from anywhere, at any time, and at their own pace. Instructors can create and deliver content on their own schedule. This makes the use of asynchronous learning platforms ideal for employees who have busy schedules or are geographically dispersed.
- Cost savings and scalability for organizations: Asynchronous learning platforms can provide cost savings and scalability for organizations. Since training material can be created and delivered digitally, there is no need for physical materials, travel, or hiring additional instructors. Additionally, training through asynchronous platforms can be scaled to accommodate large numbers of employees. This makes it an ideal solution for organizations looking to provide consistent training across multiple locations or departments.
- Increased engagement and motivation of employees: Asynchronous learning platforms can increase engagement and motivation among employees. Since employees can access and complete training at their own pace and on their own schedule, they may be more likely to fully engage with the material. Additionally, the ability to track their own progress and performance is helpful. It can provide employees with a sense of accomplishment and motivation to continue learning. Read this blog to learn more about learning engagement and how to improve it.
- Personalization and individualization of learning: Asynchronous learning platforms can offer personalization and individualization of learning. Employees can progress through the material at their own pace. This means they can spend more time on difficult topics, and less time on familiar topics. Additionally, asynchronous learning platforms can personalize the training experience. This is based on the learner’s performance and knowledge level. This ensures that they receive a customized and effective learning experience.
Now, let’s explore the top 10 asynchronous learning platforms.
Top 10 asynchronous learning platforms
1. RapL
RapL stands out as one of the leaders in asynchronous learning platforms. RapL comes with a unique blend of features and presents a cutting-edge solution for enterprise training. RapL uses a thoughtful mix of flipped learning, microlearning, gamification, AI, scenarios, and spaced repetition to provide a highly personalized and tailored learning experience for each individual user. RapL has robust and versatile user and group management features to scale from small teams of 10 people to large enterprises with tens of thousands of users. RapL was created in 2019 by a team of experienced innovators, with expertise in software, cloud, and learning solutions.
RapL uses microlearning and spaced repetition to address the challenges of conventional training methods. This creates a dynamic and engaging learning environment that improves the workforce. Read this article to know more about the benefits of using microlearning for business training.
RapL’s innovative approach to learning has proven to significantly increase employee knowledge in a few weeks. RapL’s platform employs a unique flipped learning model. This is where questions are presented before answers and explanations. This approach effectively identifies and instantly corrects individual knowledge gaps.
RapL’s microlearning solution is powered by an AI-driven spaced repetition model. It assesses where an employee is struggling, and provides continuous practice in specific areas.
RapL
What people like | What people dislike |
RapL provides a user-friendly and customizable app, with an intuitive and engaging interface. RapL allows trainers to assign content and tests by role/group. | Some trainers want individual assignments of content; this is planned for future development. |
Various content formats, along with gamification make learning fun and engaging. | Some admins prefer a 1-page summary report. |
Core Features:
- Flipped learning model: RapL uses this approach of asking questions before providing explanations. This effectively identifies and instantly corrects individual knowledge gaps.
- AI-based spaced repetition: RapL uses spaced repetition learning. This provides personalized learning based on employees’ ability to retain information over time.
- Bespoke content creation services: RapL offers customized learning materials. These can be tailored to the needs of specific organizations and their employees.
- Robust analytics and comprehensive dashboard: RapL provides real-time data tracking. Employee progress and performance can be viewed on a comprehensive dashboard. This provides administrators with actionable insights into the effectiveness of their training programs.
- Gamified model: RapL offers an engaging learning experience through game-like features, such as leaderboards and badges.
- Enterprise admin for talent management: RapL’s platform offers a centralized management system. Admin can track employee progress, create assignments, and generate reports.
- Highly-rated mobile apps: RapL offers a mobile-compatible learning app with intuitive interface, easy navigation, and high user ratings.
Pricing:
A free trial is available to access sample topics created by experts. RapL is available as a subscription service. It can be tailored to the specific needs of the business. Contact us for a demonstration, or a personalized plan based on your requirements.
2. EdApp
EdApp is one of the top mobile-based asynchronous learning platforms. It is designed to make learning engaging and interactive. It is a cloud-based platform that is used by organizations of all sizes to deliver training to their employees.
EdApp
What people like | What people dislike |
Easy-to-use interface | Slow to load |
Interactive multimedia modules | Limited customization options |
Analytics for monitoring progress | Occasional technical glitches |
Core Features:
- Microlearning: EdApp uses microlearning, which allows the platform to deliver just-in-time training, reinforce key concepts, and improve retention.
- Authoring tool: The authoring tool is user-friendly. It offers a range of interactive templates, multimedia resources, and gamification options. This allows trainers to create engaging, visually appealing content that employees enjoy.
- Analytics: EdApp offers a comprehensive analytics dashboard that tracks learner engagement, performance, and completion rates.
Pricing:
EdApp offers both free and paid plans. The free plan includes access to basic features and limited course uploads. The paid plans offer advanced features, such as customized branding, reporting, and integrations with third-party tools. The pricing varies based on the number of users and the features required. This makes it flexible and scalable for any organization’s training needs.
3. Coursera for Business
Coursera for Business is one of the popular asynchronous learning platforms. It offers a variety of online courses, specializations, and degree programs from top universities and institutions.
Coursera for Business
What people like | What people dislike |
High-quality courses | Expensive courses |
Flexible, accessible, | Limited interaction with instructors and peers |
Recognition through certificates | Issues with video playback |
Core Features:
- Range of courses: Coursera offers a wide range of subjects, from business to computer science to the humanities.
- Interactive learning tools: The platform includes quizzes, assignments, and other interactive learning tools that enhance the learning experience.
- Analytics: Coursera provides analytics tools that enable employees and instructors to track progress and engagement.
Pricing:
Coursera offers a mix of free and paid courses. Prices vary depending on the course, specialization, or degree program. While some courses are free, those who wish to earn certificates or degrees will have an associated fee. The platform also offers financial aid and scholarships to employees who cannot afford the fees.
4. Udemy for Business
Udemy for Business is one of the asynchronous learning platforms designed specifically for corporate training and professional development. It offers a broad range of courses on various subjects, including leadership, management, marketing, and many more.
Udemy for Business
What people like | What people dislike |
Diverse range of courses | Inconsistency in course quality |
Flexibility | Limited interaction with instructors |
Engaging content | Expensive for some users |
Core Features:
- Personalized learning: Udemy for Business uses data and analytics to provide personalized learning experiences based on each learner’s skills and interests.
- Team collaboration: The platform enables team collaboration, allowing employees to share their progress and learn from their peers.
- Certification: The courses on Udemy for Business offer employees certificates of completion that can be used to showcase their skills and knowledge to employers.
Pricing:
Udemy for Business offers a subscription-based pricing model. Prices vary depending on the number of users and the subscription plan. The platform offers a free trial period, allowing businesses to test out the platform and explore the courses before committing to a subscription.
5. Skillshare
Skillshare is one of the asynchronous learning platforms that offers a broad range of self-paced courses, workshops, and projects on creative and business topics. The platform is designed to help individuals and teams develop new skills and advance their careers.
Skillshare
What people like | What people dislike |
Range of course subjects | Inconsistent course quality |
Interactive learning | Lack of recognition |
Cost-effective | Limited course selection |
Core Features:
- Project-based learning: The platform emphasizes project-based learning, allowing employees to apply what they’ve learned to real-world projects.
- Community feedback: Skillshare provides employees with access to a supportive community of peers and instructors, enabling them to receive feedback and support as they learn.
- Affordable pricing: The platform offers a low monthly subscription fee, with no additional costs or hidden fees.
Pricing:
Skillshare offers a subscription-based pricing model with a low monthly fee. The fee gives employees unlimited access to courses and features. The platform also offers a free trial period, allowing employees to test the platform and explore the courses before committing to a subscription.
6. EdX
EdX is a non-profit asynchronous learning platform. It offers courses and programs from some of the world’s top universities and institutions. The platform provides employees with a broad range of courses in various disciplines. For example, computer science, engineering, business, etc.
EdX
What people like | What people dislike |
High-quality courses | Limited interaction with instructors |
Flexibility | Limited course selection |
Professional development | Cost |
Core Features:
- Global community: EdX provides employees with access to a global community of employees and instructors, allowing them to connect and collaborate with peers from around the world.
- Verified certificates: The platform offers employees the option to earn verified certificates upon completion of certain courses, which can be used to showcase their skills to potential employers.
- Open EdX: EdX offers an open-source platform, allowing institutions and individuals to create and share their courses and content with the world.
Pricing:
EdX offers both free and paid courses and programs, with the cost varying depending on the course or program. The platform also offers financial assistance for employees who cannot afford the cost of certain courses or programs.
7. Blackboard
Blackboard is an asynchronous learning platform. It is used by educational institutions to deliver online courses and content to their students. The platform provides employees with access to various tools and resources to enhance their learning experience.
Blackboard
What people like | What people dislike |
Accessibility | Platform can be complex to use |
Collaboration tools | Technical issues such as login |
Customizability | Cost |
Core Features:
- Course content management: Blackboard provides institutions with tools to manage and deliver course content, such as assignments, quizzes, and readings.
- Communication tools: The platform offers various communication tools, such as email and messaging, allowing employees to communicate with their instructors and peers.
- Analytics: Blackboard provides institutions with analytics and reporting tools, allowing them to track learner progress and identify areas for improvement.
Pricing:
Blackboard’s pricing varies depending on the size and needs of the institution. The platform offers different pricing models, such as licensing fees and subscription-based pricing. Institutions can also purchase additional support services, such as training and technical support.
8. LearnWorlds
LearnWorlds is one of the asynchronous learning platforms. It provides an all-in-one, cloud-based, and white-label platform. It enables educators to create, manage, and sell their online courses. The platform offers a user-friendly interface with various customization options, making it ideal for educators who want to build a unique brand identity for their online courses.
LearnWorlds
What people like | What people dislike |
Customization | Limited integrations |
In-built marketing tools | Expensive |
Interactive features | Steep learning curve |
Core Features:
- Course creation: LearnWorlds provides a drag-and-drop course builder that allows educators to create engaging and interactive courses without any coding skills.
- eCommerce: The platform also offers an integrated eCommerce feature that allows educators to sell their courses and receive payments directly from employees.
- Analytics: LearnWorlds provides analytics and reporting tools, allowing educators to track learner progress and identify areas for improvement.
Pricing:
LearnWorlds offers various pricing plans, such as the Starter plan and the Learning Centre plan. The pricing plans differ in terms of features and the number of employees allowed on the platform. LearnWorlds also offers a free 30-day trial for users to test the platform before committing to a pricing plan.
9. Flip
Flip is one of the asynchronous learning platforms. It provides users with tools to create interactive courses, quizzes, and assessments. The platform is designed to help businesses and educators build engaging and effective online learning experiences.
Flip
What people like | What people dislike |
User-friendly interface | Limited customization options |
Interactive features | Limited integrations |
Collaboration tools | Limited analytics |
Core Features:
- Course creation: Flip provides a drag-and-drop course builder that allows users to create engaging and interactive courses without any coding skills.
- Assessment tools: Flip offers various assessment tools, such as quizzes and surveys, that enable users to evaluate learner progress and identify areas for improvement.
- Collaboration tools: Flip provides collaboration tools, such as group projects and assignments, that enable employees to work together and share knowledge.
Pricing:
Flip offers various pricing plans, ranging from the Solo plan to the Enterprise plan. The pricing plans differ in terms of features and the number of employees allowed on the platform. Additionally, Flip offers a free 14-day trial for users to test the platform before committing to a pricing plan.
10. SkillLake
SkillLake is one of the top asynchronous learning platforms. It provides businesses a variety of tools to train their employees and improve their skills. The platform offers a wide range of courses and programs, as well as tools to create custom courses, assessments, and evaluations.
SkillLake
What people like | What people dislike |
Customization options | Limited integrations |
Wide range of courses | Lack of support for offline learning |
Advanced analytics | Expensive for some users |
Core Features:
- Course creation: SkillLake provides a drag-and-drop course builder that allows users to create engaging and interactive courses without any coding skills.
- Assessments and evaluations: SkillLake offers various assessment and evaluation tools, such as quizzes and surveys, that enable businesses to evaluate learner progress and identify areas for improvement.
- Analytics and reporting: SkillLake provides advanced analytics and reporting tools, enabling businesses to track learner progress, measure the ROI of their training programs, and identify areas for improvement.
Pricing:
SkillLake offers various pricing plans. The pricing plans differ in terms of features and the number of employees allowed on the platform. Additionally, SkillLake offers a free demo for businesses to test the platform before committing to a pricing plan.
Top 10 Asynchronous Learning Platforms
In conclusion, asynchronous learning platforms are the way forward for corporate training. Businesses are keen to embrace this innovative approach to improve their learning and development initiatives. RapL can assist with this transition by providing high-quality, engaging content through its training platform. Our platform motivates employees to expand their knowledge and embrace the learning process. For further information, please contact us at hello@getrapl.com.
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Dear reader, thanks for being with us all the way till the end. We suggest 2 things from here
1. Speak to us if you want a microlearning strategy deep-dive: Microlearning is extremely effective, if approached sensibly. Microlearning is the answer to today’s shortening attention spans and we know how to make learning successful via microlearning. Drop your context here and we shall partner with you for the rest.
2. Lap up more content: We have written some intense literature on how microlearning is the superglue between people and successful business operations. Access all of it here.
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