Audio Learning: how to integrate audio into online training?

Audio is taking up more and more space in our daily lives. In recent months, it has even become the second most popular online medium right after video. 

So why not ride the wave and integrate audio into your training programs? But how should it be used? For what purpose? And what’s the best way to do it? 

In this article, discover everything you need to know to make the most of this emerging learning medium.

Audio content has become a true “mass phenomenon.” Its growth accelerated during the pandemic, fueled by changes in digital habits, and has expanded across multiple formats. 

We see it every day: 

• Voice command technologies, 
• Audio features on social platforms (voice messages on WhatsApp, Clubhouse audio chats), 
• And booming formats like audiobooks and podcasts, consumed for information, awareness, or inspiration. 

What exactly is a podcast? 

A podcast is a downloadable digital audio file that can be listened to anywhere, anytime. 

It’s not just entertainment, the primary motivation of podcast listeners is to learn new things.

According to surveys, over 83% of French learners want to learn without sitting in front of a screen. 

That’s why podcasts have a real place in the training programs of tomorrow. They are perceived as a valid learning format. 

Science tells us audio is not inherently “better” than visuals, since the brain doesn’t have a dedicated sensory memory for sound. What matters most is the message itself. 

That said, sound does have advantages: 

• The brain retains audio for 2.5 seconds (vs. just 0.25 seconds for images). 
• Audio often fosters a deep state of concentration (flow), which supports memorization and learning.

There are two main ways to use audio in online training: 

1. Designing audio-first training (podcasts) 

Trainers can create audio content around key concepts, split into episodes by theme or level, and share them with learners over time. 

This format is particularly suited for awareness-raising and thematic training. 
The challenge: beyond content quality and storytelling, the narrator must convey emotion to build an auditory connection that keeps learners listening until the end—and coming back for more. 

2. Embedding audio into Blended Learning paths 

Audio can also strengthen the blended learning experience: 

• At the start: introduce a theme, set the tone, and engage learners. 
• During training: provide additional insights, illustrate scenarios, or quiz learners. 
• After training: guide learners during workplace-based learning (AFEST) with audio instructions.

Educational podcast 

• Goal: Share knowledge orally. 
• Ease of creation: Very high (just a microphone needed). 
• Duration: 2–15 minutes. 

Interactive podcast 

• Goal: Share expertise via interviews or group discussions. 
• Ease of creation: Moderate (requires multiple microphones, in-person recording). 
• Duration: 5–30 minutes. 

Experiential podcast 

• Goal: Immerse learners in a scenario with voice plus sound effects. 
• Ease of creation: More technical. 
• Duration: 5–20 minutes.

Accessible

Easy for learners to consume anywhere, anytime—and easy for trainers to create with minimal equipment. 

Engaging

Podcasts have one of the highest completion rates: nearly 9 out of 10 listeners finish an episode once started. This translates into stronger knowledge retention and course completion rates. 

Inclusive

Audio is more accessible than text for learners with disabilities, literacy challenges, or limited digital access.