eLearning | Glossary
eLearning Glossary – P, as in...
In this part of our eLearning glossary series, we focus on the letter “P”. Four key terms in corporate learning take centre stage: mandatory training, platform, face-to-face training and assessment.
Psst… just a little side note: We choose our glossary terms based on the first letter of the original German words. So don’t be surprised if the English version features slightly different terms than the title might suggest.
Mandatory Training
Mandatory training is now a standard in organisations. These are compulsory courses that employees must complete to comply with legal requirements and internal policies.
They are particularly critical in areas such as data protection and compliance. Organisations must ensure that their employees are familiar with relevant regulations, for example those derived from the GDPR or other security frameworks. Even where training is not explicitly required by law, an indirect obligation often arises from the need to maintain an adequate level of protection.
Typical topics include:
- Data protection and information security,
- Health and fire safety,
- Compliance and anti-corruption,
- Hygiene or industry-specific training.
The benefits are clear: well-trained employees act more safely, reduce risks and help protect the organisation from legal consequences. At the same time, mandatory training strengthens a sense of responsibility in day-to-day work.
Delivered digitally, it reaches its full potential: eLearning enables a flexible, scalable and audit-proof approach.
Platform
No platform, no eLearning. It forms the technical foundation on which content is delivered, progress is tracked and results are analysed.
In most cases, this is a Learning Management System (LMS). In compliance contexts in particular, it is indispensable: training records can be documented seamlessly, a key advantage during audits or regulatory inspections.
In short: the platform ensures structure, transparency and traceability.
Face-to-Face Training
Despite increasing digitalisation, face-to-face training remains relevant. It enables learning through direct interaction, on site and with real people.
Especially when dealing with complex or sensitive topics, such as information security, this approach offers clear advantages. Participants can ask questions immediately, engage in interactive discussions and work through practical exercises.
However, it is less flexible and often requires greater organisational effort. For this reason, many organisations rely on blended learning, a combination of digital and traditional formats.
Assessment
Assessments make learning outcomes measurable. They demonstrate whether content has been understood and can be applied.
In eLearning, various formats are used:
- Multiple-choice tests,
- Scenario-based tasks,
- Final assessments with certification.
An assessment exists whenever the outcome has consequences, such as passing or failing. In regulated environments, this proof is essential.
It is also important that assessments are fair, transparent and consistent – especially when they influence qualifications or career opportunities.
Conclusion
These terms highlight how closely eLearning is linked to organisational requirements:
Mandatory training ensures compliance.
Platforms provide structure and traceability.
Face-to-face training adds depth and interaction.
Assessments deliver measurable outcomes.
A well-designed combination of these elements is key to effective learning.
