As we entered 2021, thoughts were very much in mind about the return to the classroom. When would normality resume? Would we see a change in requests from virtual back to in-person training? What would the new normal look like?
It is fair to say that some partners were very keen to get back into the classroom but the forever changing landscape of the pandemic made this difficult. With far more certainty that virtual events would go ahead. 2021 was still very much a year of virtual Zoom, Teams, and WebEx training sessions. That said, there was enough interest to suggest that in future when things finally settle, a choice of options should be introduced with training being delivered in either format.
Comparison on training delivery method
With much of Arm’s training being of a technical basis, high levels remain technical presentation based.
Converting this technical content for easily digestible online training videos for access before the course seemed a logical idea, freeing up time on the live course for more discussion and practical based. ‘higher value’ activities. However, the miss match of some delegates completing the pre work and some not, placed the trainer in an impossible situation. Go with those that had diligently completed what was needed and expected and lose those that had not or cater for those that had not and frustrate those that had?
This approach was plainly not delivering the results we expected or required so a rethink was required. The new blended approach designed now has zero prerequisite videos. Instead, a kick-off session starts the course and gives trainer the chance to check everyone has access and to set the scene about the importance of the online content. By ensuring that there is a clear plan of activity, videos can be accessed and questions asked results are already starting to show higher engagement rates and more effective training.
2021 has also seen further improvements to the live virtual based training. With more labs, supported by our Cloud based Virtual Training Machines, as well as the increased use of interactive whiteboards and online quizzes, training is well prepared for whatever the future holds.
With the ever-increasing amounts of new Arm IP being developed, creation of training content kept pace. 2021 saw the introduction of the following courses including new CPUs and reference designs, designed to be delivered virtually, or in person with elements of the content delivered as on-demand video.
So, what will 2022 hold for training? Well, requests for training continue to increase with more IP being launched and more partners using even more elements of the Arm IP offering.
Key topics for focus in 2022 will focus on catering for many new partners using Arm for the first time as well as those using our very latest IP. Content such as what are the steps and experience needed to create a System on Chip (SoC), through to exciting new training courses supporting the continued advancement of our architectures. Security and safety will do doubt be key themes along with more total solution-based training where required. Whether this is in the onsite in a carbon neutral manner, with Zoom or even in a VR classrooms, time will tell but ultimately our partners and customers will help us lead the way.
For more details on what training is available from Arm, please use the following link.
Arm Training Courses