Cupcake conversations! Are traditional workshop-based training sessions on the way out?

My Facebook page reminded me this morning that six years ago, I attended a cupcake decorating workshop with a friend.  Looking at these rather impressive cupcakes, I'm trying to recall a time, since this workshop, that I've...

 actually used my new-found skills.  I've certainly made cupcakes, and I know I've 'decorated' them, but have I ever decorated to this standard since?  The answer… never! 

The possible reasons…?

1. I don’t have the same equipment that was available that the Trainer had at the workshop
2. It was a one-off event with no follow up to continue practicing under guidance
3. I haven't had the motivation to self-study this topic to continue my own development

 
The timing of this reminder is very apt, after recently attending a CIPD talk on the 'Future of L&D', we discussed the trend for 'just in time' knowledge, such as that found in the arena of social media and on-line learning.  It posed the question ‘is traditional face-to-face workshop-based learning on the decline?’
 
For those just starting out in Training and Development, this could be a worrying thought as workshop-based events are often where we cut our teeth, testing out our delivery skills and building our experience of people interactions.  Personally, I think ‘traditional’ and 'just-in-time' learning can sit happily together (at least for now), but it does mean we need to raise our game and think about adding more value to pre and post event activities. 
 
Just three possible solutions:

• A post event social media group to track progress and pose questions 

• Follow up webinar / collaborative on-line meeting to discuss outcomes
• Access to an on-line 'information' portal, to access as and when required 

 
If you are looking to start your career as a Corporate Trainer, then why not check out the  'Getting into training' Facebook page where we discuss stuff just like this!  Cupcake conversations optional!!