Learning Management Systems (LMSs) are software applications or web-based platforms that plan, implement, and assess a specific learning process. LMSs have been used in various industries, including healthcare, higher education, and corporate training, for many years.
In the late 1990s, LMSs were developed and first used in higher education to deliver online classes and monitor learners’ progress. As our world has become more digitally connected over time, these systems have been adopted corporately; now, businesses everywhere are leveraging their capabilities for safety training purposes.
One of the main drivers for adopting LMSs for safety training in the workplace was the need for a more efficient and cost-effective way to deliver and manage training programs. Traditional classroom-based safety training can be time-consuming and expensive, particularly for organizations with many employees. LMSs provided a convenient and flexible solution, allowing employees to access training materials and resources online and complete training at their own pace.
The creation of SCORM (Sharable Content Object Reference Model) standards during the early 2000s revolutionized safety training by allowing an LMS to be compatible with a wide range of e-learning content and efficiently track student progress. This innovative set of technical regulations defined how online learning material and Learning Management Systems must interact, thus promoting seamless integration.
As LMSs for safety training has evolved, they have become more sophisticated and user-friendly. Many modern LMSs include a range of interactive and engaging features, such as gamification and simulations, which can help to make safety training more effective and enjoyable for employees.
Over the past few years, mobile devices have revolutionized LMSs for safety training by exponentially extending their reach and accessibility. By designing these systems to be both responsive and mobile-friendly, it is now possible for any employee with an internet connection to access important training materials from anywhere in the world. This “anytime, anywhere” learning model has enabled organizations to train a dispersed workforce more efficiently than ever before — resulting in greater employee participation and engagement with safety programs.
In summary, the use of Learning Management Systems for safety training in the workplace has a relatively short history. However, in a short period, LMSs have become a valuable tool for delivering and managing safety training programs. The convenience and flexibility of LMSs, combined with the development of SCORM standards and the rise of mobile learning, have made it easier for organizations to deliver effective and efficient safety training to their employees. As LMSs continue to evolve and advance, they will likely continue to play a key role in delivering safety training in the workplace.
