E-Learning Glossary Instructor-Led Training

Instructor-Led Training

Sara Heegaard December 11, 2025 2 min read

Get started with Articulate

What is instructor-led training?

Instructor-led training is a learning process in which live instruction is led by a facilitator or teacher. Learners and instructors meet in the same physical space at the same time, or virtually in an online classroom. Organizations use ILT and virtual instructor-led training (VILT) to facilitate live discussion, provide immediate feedback to learners, and help teams build stronger social connections.

Example: With a goal to increase collaboration in the workplace, our L&D department scheduled instructor led-training sessions so teams could work together in real-time through guided problem-solving activities.

Instructor-led training vs. e-learning

Instructor-led training allows facilitators to check for learner understanding, adapt instruction in real-time, and facilitate hands-on learning activities like role-play, simulations, and group discussions. However, ILT isn’t right for every workplace. Due to high costs, potential workday disruption, consistency issues with multiple facilitators, and slow updates, many L&D departments turn to other options. 

E-learning provides interactive, engaging learning experiences for all. Employees use a learning management system to access synchronous and asynchronous online courses anytime, anywhere, and on any device. Content can be created, updated, and personalized using powerful course authoring tools and scaled effectively for a growing learner base. 

Organizations often take a blended learning approach—the combination of in-person, instructor-led training and asynchronous online courses—to unlock the best of both worlds.

You may also like

Instructor-Led vs. E-Learning: Which Training Method Is Better?

Instructor-Led vs. E-Learning: Which Training Method Is Better?

Compare the pros and cons of instructor-led vs. e-learning to choose the best option for your business goals and employee development needs.

Learn more
What Is Blended Learning? A Comprehensive Guide

What Is Blended Learning? A Comprehensive Guide

Learn what blended learning is, how it combines in-person and online content to provide a flexible approach to learning, and real-world examples to follow.

Learn more
What Is Cognitive Load Theory? Instructional Design and the Busy Mind

What Is Cognitive Load Theory? Instructional Design and the Busy Mind

Learn what cognitive load theory is and how it informs effective instructional design to increase knowledge retention and reduce cognitive overload.

Learn more

Ready to get started with the leading course authoring tools?

Articulate has everything you need to create better workplace training. Start creating for free today.