We’ve had a few conversations lately with course participants who have said “why can’t I just do this online, why do I need to come to a class”.
Tonight I read the following in a newsletter I receive from the 12 Week Year.
Sometimes people confuse knowing something with actually doing it. Occasionally in our training events, people tell us that they already “know this stuff.” The problem is that there is a big difference between knowing something and actually doing it.
~ Brian Moran
This is so accurate and while this quote was referring to something completely different, it is very applicable to learning a hands-on psychomotor skill. We’re building muscle memory in class. We’ve noticed that a decent percentage of students who claim they can learn BLS or CPR AED in an online-only class usually need the most support during a class to do the skills successfully.
Learning a physical skill by reading or watching a video online is not the same as practicing the skill.
Yes, you can know what to do… but can you physically do it?
Honestly, some folks can watch a video online and repeat the skills. The reality is that most cannot. But what online courses don’t necessarily provide is the ability to ask questions and receive personalized support. Yes, the website has a FAQ, and maybe a chat function. And yes, sometimes instructors don’t know the answer to every questions. But in most cases your BLS or CPR AED Instructor can answer your questions and give you practical real-life answers. That experienced answer, and the ability to practice chest compressions, learn how to assemble a pocket masks, learn how to use a face shield, practice with an AED trainer; are things you cannot receive from an online-only course.
In our classes you will not only learn what to do, you’ll also practice how to do it. So in the heat of the moment in an emergency you can act and possibly save a life. That’s what we’re training you to be able to do.
