What's the difference between E-Learning courses, events and training courses?
Many academy websites provide a range of learning opportunities designed to support professional development, compliance training, and industry knowledge. Depending on the academy, you may be able to purchase courses directly through the website and access them immediately from your account.
If you are new to the platform, it is important to understand the different types of products available, how they are delivered, and how membership status can affect pricing.
This guide explains the different learning options available and helps you choose the most suitable option for your needs.
Types of Learning Products Available
The platform may offer three different categories of learning products:
Training Courses
Training courses are instructor-led learning sessions delivered by an experienced trainer.
These sessions are normally conducted:
In person at a training venue
Through a live online classroom
Through a webinar platform
As a scheduled virtual training session
Unlike self-paced e-learning, training courses are delivered at a specific date and time and usually require attendance.
Training courses are ideal for learners who prefer direct interaction with a trainer and opportunities to ask questions during the session.
Events
Events are scheduled learning or networking activities organised by the academy.
Examples may include:
Industry conferences
Professional seminars
Workshops
Networking events
Awareness sessions
Special guest presentations
Like training courses, events take place at a specific date and time and may be delivered either in person or online.
When purchasing an event ticket, you are reserving your place to attend that event.
E-Learning Courses
E-learning courses are self-paced online courses that can be completed at a time that suits you.
After purchasing an e-learning course:
The course is assigned directly to your account.
You can start immediately.
Progress is saved automatically.
You can complete lessons at your own pace.
You can return later and continue where you left off.
A certificate is usually available once all completion requirements have been met.
E-learning courses are the most flexible learning option and can be completed from any location with internet access.
How E-Learning Courses Work
When you purchase an e-learning course, access is automatically added to your account after the order has been completed successfully.
Once enrolled, you can:
Log in to your account.
Open your course dashboard or course page.
Launch the course.
Complete all lessons.
Complete any required quizzes or assessments.
Receive a certificate upon successful completion.
Your progress is tracked automatically throughout the course.
Member and Non-Member Pricing
Many academy websites offer special discounted pricing for members.
When purchasing a course, training session, or event, you may see pricing options such as:
Member
Non-Member
Member Pricing
Member pricing is available to users who hold an active membership with the organisation.
Members typically receive:
Reduced course prices
Discounted event tickets
Access to exclusive resources
Additional member benefits
Non-Member Pricing
If you are not a member, you can still purchase courses and events, but the standard non-member price will apply.
Becoming a Member
If you would like to access member pricing and benefits, you can apply for membership through the organisation's membership page.
For example, SOFHT membership information can be found here:
SOFHT Membership Grades and Benefits
Depending on the membership type selected, your application may be reviewed before approval.
Some memberships are activated immediately, while others may require verification of qualifications, experience, or professional information.
Once your membership has been approved and activated, member pricing will become available where applicable.
What Happens After Purchase?
After successfully purchasing a product:
Training Courses
You will receive confirmation of your booking and details about attendance requirements.
Events
You will receive confirmation of your event registration and event information.
E-Learning Courses
The course will be assigned to your account automatically and can be accessed from your course dashboard.
You can then begin learning immediately and work towards completing the course and obtaining your certificate.
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