The ROI of Showing Up: Eight Reasons Why In-Person Learning is Most Effective

Professional learning is essential as it helps individuals stay current in their field, adapt to industry changes, enhance their skills, and achieve career growth. Continuous learning also boosts confidence, encourages innovation, and fosters a growth mindset, ultimately leading to greater job satisfaction and effectiveness.

In today’s digital-first world, for professionals eager to upskill and enhance their careers, virtual learning has provided incredible access and flexibility. Yet, for many learners, constant distractions, technology hiccups, and a lack of connection make virtual learning a less appealing option for learning. When it comes to professional development and training programs that require deep understanding and hands-on application—like ROI Certification®—there are compelling reasons why in-person learning is often more effective for adult learners.

Greater Engagement and Focus

While virtual platforms are accessible, they often come with numerous distractions: incoming emails, pop-up notifications, too many open tabs, and the environment itself can all interfere with a learner’s focus. In-person events eliminate these interruptions, placing learners in a mostly distraction-free setting that helps them stay engaged. When participants are physically present, the learning feels more tangible, leading to better focus and active involvement.

Deloitte reported that adults in professional development programs are 50% more likely to remain focused and engaged in in-person settings. Being physically present with peers creates a form of social accountability and commitment, which enhances motivation and follow-through.¹

Real-Time Interaction and Networking Opportunities

One of the greatest advantages of in-person learning is the opportunity to engage face-to-face with peers and facilitators. During in-person events, attendees often learn as much from each other as from the program’s content. These interactions foster networking opportunities that might not feel as natural in virtual settings.

For adult learners, this connection isn’t just social—it can be instrumental in applying what is learned. For example, during ROI Certification, participants can interact with others who work in similar fields allowing them to see how the ROI Methodology applies across different functions and sectors, broadening their perspectives and sparking ideas for their own applications.

Facilitated Feedback

For professional certifications, especially those requiring specific skills, hands-on practice is crucial, and the ability to receive immediate feedback is imperative for successful learning transfer. Adult learners benefit greatly from the ability to get clarification, ask follow-up questions, and receive personalized advice in the moment. This is more challenging to facilitate effectively in virtual learning environments.² This kind of immediate feedback is especially valuable in ROI Certification, where participants practice mathematical calculations and analyze data. An in-person setting enables learners to ask questions on the spot, receive clarification, and address misunderstandings in real time—something that is often difficult in virtual training.

Learning Through Doing

Many adults are kinesthetic learners, meaning they absorb information better when they’re actively involved. Being physically present and taking part in hands-on activities boosts retention, making concepts and methods “stick.” For ROI Certification, a program that involves interpreting data, presenting key findings, and communicating financial value, this can make a significant difference in learners’ comprehension.

According to research from MIT Sloan School of Management, adult professionals achieve a higher level of cognitive processing and behavior change when skills are reinforced through practice in an in-person setting.³These findings underscore the advantages of in-person learning for adult professionals, as it fosters practical skill development, peer engagement, reduced digital fatigue, and direct feedback—key factors for effective learning and long-term retention.

Building Confidence and Collaboration

Professional learning programs like ROI Certification often challenge participants to apply new skills, utilize different strategies, and employ innovative ideas, all processes that require concentration and confidence. In an in-person setting, participants often feel more comfortable reaching out for support or clarification. They can also rely on group exercises and discussions to reinforce their learning, boosting confidence in a way that virtual learning can’t always replicate.

This environment of collaboration encourages growth. Informal chats, shared meals, and group exercises create a culture where learning extends beyond the classroom, helping individuals feel comfortable experimenting with new skills and approaches.

The “Event Effect”

An often-overlooked benefit of in-person learning is the mental commitment it requires. Traveling to a professional development event represents an investment of time, effort, and resources, which reinforces its significance. Participants are less likely to miss or “half-participate” in an in-person session, leading to a higher level of engagement and dedication.

With professional events like ROI Certification, this level of commitment can make a big difference. When learners feel more dedicated to their training, they’re also more likely to retain information, complete their certification, and apply what they’ve learned in their daily work.

Multitasking is Absent

In virtual settings, multitasking is rampant, especially if a participant’s camera is turned off and there are little to no activities integrated into the session. During an in-person session, multitasking is almost non-existent or can be easily controlled.

Multitasking drastically inhibits learning. If learning is reduced, application is minimized. When that happens, impact is reduced. With little to no impact, the program will not be successful.

Enhanced Manager Support

For in-person learning, participants often travel to an offsite location, requiring them to be away from work for several days. In the case of ROI Certification, participants are typically engaged for five full days. This extended absence draws managers’ attention and encourages their support, as they recognize the investment in time and resources involved, including travel expenses. Managers become more engaged with the program, realizing it needs to generate returns to justify the cost.

In contrast, virtual learning often takes place at participants’ desks, allowing them to stay in the office. Their managers may not even be aware that they’re engaged in a training program, as virtual sessions are generally less disruptive. With fewer visible costs, managers tend to offer less support for virtual learning than for in-person programs.

Final Thoughts

While virtual learning will remain essential for its convenience and reach, there’s no substitute for the depth, engagement, and connection that in-person learning offers. For certifications and training programs designed to transform the way professionals approach their roles—like ROI Certification—the in-person experience allows learners to make a more lasting impact in their organizations.

In a world of endless digital options, prioritizing in-person learning can make a powerful difference in both professional growth and real-world application. Whether you’re just beginning your journey with ROI Methodology® or advancing your measurement skill set, investing in an in-person ROI Certification learning experience could be the key to building serious evaluation capability.

References

¹https://www.deloitte.com/global/en/about/story/purpose-values/learning-and-development.html

²https://sloanreview.mit.edu/article/how-well-designed-work-makes-us-smarter/

³Knowles, M.S. (1980). The modern practice of adult education: From pedagogy to andragogy. Follett Publishing Company.

Authors

Patti P. Phillips, Ph.D., CEO, ROI Institute, Inc., and Jack J. Phillips, Ph.D., Chairman, ROI Institute, Inc.