How Professional Associations Can Validate Virtual Learning

Virtual learning: How professional associations can help

If your company isn't already offering training and education through learning and development programs, start with a professional association.

There are nearly 67,000 professional associations in the United States, with most offering online learning courses for their members, according to ASAE — the American Society of Association Executives.

Does your profession require continuing education credits? If so, you already know that professional associations are your go-to resource for education and training, whether it's in-person seminars, conferences, or daylong learning sessions. Online courses, webinars, or other virtual training sessions continue to be popular options, especially in this age of social distancing. But even if your profession doesn't require CLE, professional associations should be offering online training. They are the authority on training in any given field.

For many associations, training, education, and certifications are integral to their mission. It's about advancing standards and practices within their industry via curricula designed to take professionals to the next level in their chosen fields. By taking advantage of that resource, your employees gain skills and knowledge essential to their upward trajectory within your company.

Digital credentials are a key part of the process. Credentials offer verification that a learner has successfully completed any given course, proof that they have dedicated their time and effort to gain the knowledge that's essential for advancing in their careers. The training offered by a professional association and the digital credentials earned by a learner go hand in hand.

Why virtual learning is important and will remain important in the future

In the wake of the pandemic, virtual learning has experienced significant traction. Within the context of today's dynamic economy, virtual learning becomes instrumental in fostering both personal and professional growth. The widespread availability of online education empowers individuals to gain fresh skills and knowledge from virtually any location, promoting a culture of continuous learning and adaptability.

Employees being able to keep up with their CLE credits, upskill with new and interesting courses, or simply brush up on the latest and greatest information in their field is crucial during this time. This learning keeps your workforce engaged and gives them security their jobs aren't going away. But even when, in the not-so-distant future, restrictions are eased and we emerge from this crisis, virtual learning will still play an important role.

Why? Virtual learning allows your employees to earn their credentials anytime, anywhere, on their schedules. No taking off a half-day to attend an in-person session. It can all be done at their desks, during their lunch hours, or whenever they have some downtime. That's a win-win for your company and your employees, and your professional association is the key to helping you make that happen.

If you're interested in learning more about how digital credentials can help your organization validate learning, schedule a call with our team today.