Hold up your smart phone and consider this…if all the information anyone needed to know is contained in this device (articles, books, how-to videos, etc.), why would anyone need to go to a training class?*
Hmmm…why indeed?
This statement is definitely something to think about for all of us involved in training and development. We need to ask ourselves what value-add we are bringing to instructor led training, and challenge ourselves to design training experiences that stimulate learning.
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“The art of teaching is the art of assisting discovery.” |
Thought I would share what I use when developing training workshops. Remember your ABC’s:
A – Appeal to All Learning Styles – Think of “no learner left behind” by creating a multi-sensory program that appeals to visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learners. We tend to teach in our own style so make an effort to include the other two styles.
B – Build Relationships – In a classroom environment you can build “communities of learning” not only with you the instructor, but also fellow participants. Build in networking opportunities to continue learning after the program.
C – Connect Concepts – An effective trainer will listen carefully to participants during the training class and connect their discussions to concepts presented. Encourage an exchange of ideas to share previous experiences and how they will use new concepts.
D – Deep Questions – Discussions in real-time amongst instructors and participants deepen the learning through thought provoking questions. Participants also have an opportunity to immediately ask their own questions as well.
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“Learners should not be vessels to be filled, but fires to be ignited.” |
As training professionals, we make a difference by building enthusiasm for the training topic and igniting the fires of learning within our participants.
*The opening of this article paraphrases the beginning of a presentation by Dave Maney, Economic Futurist, at a recent Vital Learning conference.
Management Skills Resource, Inc. is pleased to offer Train-The-Trainer workshops to develop the training skills of your classroom trainers and on-the-job trainers. To discuss your training plans, contact us at info@ManagementSkillsInc.com or call 972 881-5282.