Virtual digital skills training using Learn My Way

This guide will help you to:

• Support people with low digital skills in a virtual or remote learning digital skills session.
• Keep your learners engaged and motivated in an online digital skills session.
• Make the most out of Learn My Way as part of a virtual delivery model.

Challenges to remote learning

Limited access to devices and connectivity. Learners may not always have the necessary hardware or internet access to join a virtual digital skills session.

Limited digital skills. People need some basic digital skills to use their device and the video calling platform before they can join a session remotely.

Technical issues. During remote sessions learners may face technical difficulties with audio or video as well as challenges with using the device to access the session. For example, people may need to have an account before they can use it or the app may need to be updated before a session, which can be confusing.

ESOL needs / English language issue. Learners with language needs may engage less and potentially drop out early if they are unable to understand instructions.

Reluctance to engage with remote learning. Some learners may just prefer in-person support as they feel more comfortable learning in a physical setting. 

Opportunities to engage learners in remote learning

National Databank / Device Bank

• If learners don’t have suitable equipment and or connectivity for remote learning they may be able to benefit from the National Databank and Device Bank.
• The potential of a free device / mobile data might inspire people to be more engaged.

Taster in-person remote digital skills session

• Try out some short one-to-one virtual sessions with learners.
• This gives an opportunity to practice joining a call, interact with the tutor and get a feel for what a real session will be like.

Provide separate training on video calling apps

• This will help learners become familiar with online etiquette, eg when to mute their microphone, turning off their camera for privacy reasons, etc. 
• Use video meeting platforms that are easy to use

Making the most of Learn My Way

1. Screen sharing. Sharing your screen is an easy way to demonstrate how to use the website. You can show navigating the website, signing in / out, completing a topic. 
2. Start at the beginning. Even if someone knows the basics, completing some of the early topics helps them become familiar with Learn My Way and can boost their confidence.
3. Review and recap previous Learn My Way topics to ensure learners are all caught up.

Useful subjects on Learn My Way

Using your device

A great starter for beginners. This subject helps people gain confidence in using a device whilst also developing new skills.

Staying in touch 

This subject covers a range of video calling options, as well as online behaviors and social media. 

Online entertainment

Teaching people how to use the internet for entertainment can be a way of keeping them engaged with digital between sessions.