Obviously, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Instead, one must have multiple methods at one’s disposal to choose from, because the right training method not only improves skills, but also fulfills other business goals like driving retention, productivity, and business performance.

Hence, most modern organisations rarely use a single approach. Instead they prefer to blend various types of training methods and create effective, personalised learning journeys.

Choosing the right training method depends on multiple factors consisting but not limited to:

  • Your training objectives (e.g. awareness vs. skill-building)
  • Learner profile (entry-level, senior, remote, and digital access etc.)
  • The complexity of the subject
  • Time, budget, and delivery constraints

In this article, we break down the 4 types of training methods commonly used across industries, their pros and cons, and how they can be implemented through LMS for maximum impact.

The 4 most common types of training methods

There are many models of training, but the following four categories form the foundation of most training programmes:

1. On-the-job training (OJT)
2. Classroom-based training
3. Online learning or E-learning
4. Simulation-based training

Let’s look at each of these models in detail now.

On-the-job training (OJT)

OJT is practical learning in real work settings. It’s an applied method of hands-on, real-time training, which is immediate, cost-efficient, and takes place directly at the workplace. Typically informal, this training method is ideal for tasks that benefit from repetition and muscle memory.

Some common use cases of OJT include activities like shadowing a senior technician, practicing live customer service responses with a mentor or a coach, and using software tools under guidance.

One of the major advantages of OJT is contextual relevance because learners acquire skills while performing real job tasks, usually under the guidance of their experienced colleagues. It’s also cost-efficient, as it does not require external trainers or dedicated training infrastructure.

However, OJT also has its limitations. The learning experience depends heavily on the mentor’s skills, and consistency can suffer if there’s a lack of a structured approach. Additionally, errors made by learners can impact quality or safety.

Integrating OJT with an LMS can add structure and trackability and help you overcome this shortcoming. Offer pre-training videos, checklists, and digital journals. Enable mentors to track progress and feedback, and offer post-OJT quizzes or reflection logs. This will help you enhance learning outcomes when using this method.

Classroom-based training

It is one of the most common training methods. Traditionally held in physical spaces, now it also includes live virtual classrooms thanks to platforms like Zoom and Teams. This format is ideal for collaborative learning, group activities, Q&A, and role-playing exercises. It’s especially effective for induction bootcamps, onboarding, product education, compliance workshops, or leadership development workshops.

One significant advantage of this method is that it allows for real-time interaction between the trainer and the learners. The learners can ask questions, and clarify doubts with the trainer. At the same time, they can gain insights from their peers’ experiences. Further, it allows trainers to adjust their delivery based on learner engagement.

But the method also has its challenges. It requires infrastructure (physical, digital, or both), extensive scheduling, and trainer bandwidth. Also, it is difficult to scale, especially when dealing with teams dispersed across different sites.

A digital blend of tools like pre-recorded sessions, recorded live sessions for replays, polls, breakout groups, and follow-up forum discussions hosted on the LMS makes this method far more adaptable to new-age business and training needs.

Online learning or E-learning

E-learning is now the backbone of almost all L&D strategies, and if you haven’t yet embraced this training method, you need to ask youself if you’re really ready for business growth.

In this method digital platforms like LMS, mobile apps, and online course providers are used to deliver self-paced modules which may include videos, quizzes, animations, scenario-based exercises, or simulations (for advanced needs). Common use cases include compliance training, product walkthroughs, and soft skills development.

This method is highly cost-effective, very scalable, and allows employees to learn at their own pace no matter where they are. It’s consistent and enables data-backed insights into learner progress through LMS analytics. But it can feel impersonal due to a lack of real-time interaction, and can lead to low learner motivation.

Incorporating microlearning formats, reflection prompts, gamified incentives, social reinforcement, and peer-sharing features can make this method more engaging and result-oriented.

Simulation-based training

This method is one of the most effective training methods, because it replicates real-world environments, and allows learners to practise critical skills in a risk-free, controlled setting. The biggest advantage of this method is its ability to teach decision-making and behavioural skills without any exposure to real-world consequences. It is immersive, engaging, and it improves retention and confidence significantly.

However, it is costly and needs significant investment in technology, access to devices, and skilled facilitators. This method can be used to train for skills like equipment handling, complex client interactions, and emergency response drill participation. Combined with an LMS it can be used to host branching scenarios, role-play recordings, and gamified outcomes that are customised for learners.

This method is especially effective in high-stakes industries like manufacturing, healthcare, aviation, and finance.

Choosing the right type of training method for your organisation

Now for the practical questions!

How do you choose the right types of training methods for your organisation? As we briefly discussed in the beginning, there are no standard answers to this question. There is no universal method, but only what fits your team, content, and goals. The following steps can be used to solve this question with a structured approach:

  • Identify the skill gap and use relevant LMS assessments accordingly.
  • Profile your learners to match content type and tone.
  • Map your business goals with your training goals because it helps plan the training and select the methods better.
  • Balance depth, scale, and cost when designing programs, and choosing the training method. Simulations may not even be needed for a lot of organisations.
  • It’s important to realise that choosing the right training method isn’t a zero-sum game. Blending methods instead of choosing just one, might give you the best results.
  • Last but not the least, choosing a robust LMS is the backbone of modern training methods. It helps you choose, create, design, and deliver the most suitable training programmes, unique to your needs. It helps you schedule, track, scale, enhance, and assess the learning. From onboarding to leadership training, the LMS powers it all.

Some sample use cases can include the following examples:

  • A textile plant pairing new hires with mentors while they log progress on a mobile LMS.
  • An NBFC delivering live compliance training followed by LMS-based assessments.
  • An FMCG brand improving its sales using regional, multi-lingual, and mobile learning.
  • A chemical plant reducing safety incidents through VR simulations tracked in the LMS.

Reimagining training methods for India Inc 4.0

In 2025 and beyond, training methods are strategic levers for growth. By combining different types of training methods, powered by an LMS, you can create real transformation across your organisation.

At SincX Learn, we map the right types of training to your business goals, and implement them with LMS platforms tailored to your workforce. If you’re exploring how to design impactful training that actually sticks, we’re here to help. Contact us today for a no-obligation consultation on your training roadmap.

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