Travel agent consortium Advantage Travel Partnership has teamed up with online corporate travel learning platform Travilearn to launch its first e-learning course for members.
The consortium says the introduction of e-learning enhances its existing Advantage Training Academy and allows members to select a preferred learning method, creating the potential for blended in-person and online experiences.
The collaboration follows growing demand from members to attract and train new and existing employees with corporate sector skills, according to Advantage.
Members are entitled to Advantage’s agreed early learner special rates, allowing them to work toward a certified diploma.
Research by Travilearn shows e-learning can save users 60 per cent of their time compared to classroom-based courses and can also help save on the cost of travelling to the classroom. The company also says e-learning can achieve a higher retention rate, with 67 per cent of modern students preferring to use mobile devices to study, including during their daily work commute and at home.
Julia Lo Bue-Said, CEO of Advantage Travel Partnership, commented: “We’re delighted to partner with Travilearn to allow our members to invest in equipping employees with the skills needed to succeed in the industry of corporate travel. These specialist courses not only provide valuable professional development but are designed in a way that both suits modern learning styles and fit with the busy working environment.”
Karen McKenna, founder and MD of Travilearn, added that the platform helps a wide range of learners, from TMC and supplier staff and management to those transitioning from the leisure sector. “Strong global growth in the corporate travel sector has increased the demand for staff and good management, and organisations are struggling to attract candidates with the right sets of skills. Those already in the industry also need to have on-demand access to the type of training that provides them with the knowledge for career advancement and professional development.”
The collaboration will initially provide Advantage members with access to discounted rates on the Level 1, 2 and 3 courses, which are certified by the Guild of Travel Management Companies (GTMC).
Each online course uses interactive content, including videos, infographics, audio and quizzes, as well as narrative modules featuring case studies and tips that test and build the learner’s understanding, according to Travilearn. Users are also supported by visual instructors, who engage and interact with them using collaborative discussion boards and also mark assignments and provide feedback on progress.
Courses will be accessible through the Advantage Training Academy.
McKenna said: “We created our courses so that learners can have access to structured and certified e-learning at a moderate price. The courses are designed to contribute to their professional development throughout their career.”
advantagemembers.com; travilearn.com