Your guide to instructor-led vs self-paced learning

Table of contents

1. An overview of self-paced vs. instructor-led learning 
2. What is instructor-led learning? 
3. Benefits of instructor-led learning
4. What is self-paced learning? 
5. Benefits of self-paced learning 
6. Assessment results: instructor-led vs. self-paced learning
7. Conclusion 

An overview of self-paced vs. instructor-led learning

What is instructor-led learning?

Instructor-led (or instructor-paced) learning follows a fixed schedule set by the instructor. Course material, assignments, and exams are all time-bound, with little flexibility. All learners move through the course simultaneously, and certificates are awarded at the end of the course to those who pass.

Like everyone else, you probably have a lot of experience with traditional instructor-led learning. Just think back to your classroom experiences.

Benefits of instructor-led learning

• Simplicity: The structured nature of instructor-led learning makes it easier to manage at scale, ensuring a consistent and fair learning experience for all participants.
  
  
• Structure: Some learners thrive in a structured environment. For instructors, this setup allows for more immersive, hands-on learning experiences.
  
  
• Hands-on learning and interactions: Traditional instructor-led methods provide opportunities for real-time interaction. Learners can ask questions during set times, benefiting from collective learning experiences.

When instructor-led learning is better

• Intense certification processes (e.g., medical training, language courses).
• Formal education for children and youth.
• Training for high-level leadership positions.

What is self-paced learning?

Self-paced learning is ideal for those who need flexibility

Self-paced (or self-directed) learning allows learners to complete course materials and exams on their own schedule. While there may be final deadlines, learners are free to progress at a pace that suits them. This makes self-paced learning ideal for those who need flexibility.

In a world that values autonomy and efficiency, self-paced learning offers the key benefits that companies and learners seek. Though it’s a newer methodology, it's rapidly gaining popularity across industries, especially for coaches and trainers looking to maximize efficiency and learner outcomes.

Self-paced learning is a newer learning model. You may have some experience with it, usually as a part of a larger course, or when taking online courses. For example, if you’ve ever used a language learning app, you’ve probably been engaging in self-paced learning!

Benefits of self-paced learning

• Flexibility: Learners can study when and where it suits them, accommodating different schedules and responsibilities.
• Personalized studying: Learners can focus on areas where they need improvement, skipping material they already know well, which is particularly valuable for professional adult learners.
• Accessibility: Self-paced learning opens opportunities for those who might not otherwise be able to participate, such as students in different time zones.

When self-paced learning is better

• Training adults.
• Upskilling or reskilling situations.
• Learning new skills for a new role.
• Personal development/wellness content.
• Specific sub-skills (e.g., coding, marketing).

Read our article dedicated to self-paced learning.

Assessment results: instructor-led vs. self-paced learning

The effectiveness of each approach can vary depending on the context.

Instructor-led learning

In online training, instructor-led methods often produce higher assessment scores. For example, a study by the Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research found that 93% of instructor-led learners scored 75% or higher, compared to 65% of self-paced learners. Despite this, the study emphasized that instructor-led learning isn’t necessarily superior across all contexts, especially in adult education where self-paced learning can be more effective.

Self-paced learning

Self-paced learners often perform better in specific assessments. For instance, a study at Western Michigan University found that self-paced learners achieved higher grades in initial quizzes and excelled in essay-based exams. This suggests that self-paced learning encourages more effective and in-depth studying. However, the overall conclusion is that neither system is universally superior; both can yield high success rates depending on the circumstances.

Blended learning: a worthwhile alternative?

Blended (or hybrid) learning combines the benefits of both methods

Instructor-led vs. self-paced learning doesn’t have to be an ‘either/or’ choice. Blended (or hybrid) learning combines the benefits of both methods. While there is less academic data on online blended learning, testimonials from organizations that use it highlight its effectiveness. Blended learning typically involves a mix of online and in-person learning, incorporating both instructor-led and self-paced elements.

If you were given the choice, what would you choose?

1. Learning at a pace that you choose
2. Learning at the pace that an instructor tells you to.

Many people would rush to choose option A. After all, who wouldn’t want control over their own life and the ability to learn at a pace that is better for them? Of course, if you’re managing a team, a company, or even just one training program, the choice isn’t as easy. You need to be able to balance employee needs and preferences with your organization's goals. So, how do instructor-led learning and self-paced learning work? Which of these options is more effective? What are the benefits and drawbacks?

Read our full article on blended learning.

Conclusion

When it comes to training, one size definitely doesn’t fit all. Instructor-led and self-paced learning each have their own strengths and ideal scenarios. Instructor-led learning shines for rigorous, complex training, like formal education or high-stakes certifications. But for many situations where flexibility is key, self-paced learning takes the spotlight. It’s less stressful, more cost-effective, and can even deliver better results!

Ready to dive into the world of self-paced learning? With Easy LMS, you can easily create courses that give learners the freedom to study at their own pace while still meeting important deadlines. Start shaping the future of learning with Easy LMS today!

Useful resources 

1. Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research
2. Western Michigan University 

Frequently Asked Questions