If you are adopting learning management system (LMS) online training for your company’s needs, keep in mind the fact that some trainees might never have experienced online courseware before. Because of this, a good trainer with strong leadership skills is a critical factor.

In cases where students are asked to work together as a group or team, creating an environment of trust and group unity is also important. Trainers are able to create a trustful environment by setting goals and simple steps for trainees; in that way when members accomplish these steps, they seal their commitment to the group.

An LMS can be accompanied by Web 2.0 tools such as discussion boards, video conferencing, and wikis. To ensure effective dialogue between group members, trainers can establish online spaces for collaboration.

Using an LMS, team members are able to perform tasks together, assigning tasks, brainstorming, planning, doing project summaries, maintaining logs, and producing a final report.

When teaching and coordinating a team of trainees, it’s essential to communicate standard processes–both technical and “soft” processes. Particularly, when a team project or course is in its early days, clarity and consistency are key to preventing conflict later on.

Unfortunately, communication is both the source of and the cure for conflict. And unclear relegation of roles within team members is a classic course of group conflict.

Empowering people is less about tools and more about attitude and helpfulness towards a group. Successful learning groups are nurtured by respecting and encouraging; not simply dictating orders. Mutual respect is a necessary ingredient for successful teamwork.

In setting and sticking to clear goals and objectives in a team learning experience, an LMS can aid enormously . Trainers can use an LMS to track accomplishments and group goals, as well as provide rewards and recognition. But more important than an LMS online training program or any online tool is a clear and kind leader with a word of encouragement for trainees.