Learner-Centered Training Part I

As stated in my previous two posts, training sessions can be a dreaded activity by many. Despite research that tells us lecture is not learning, it is still the most used delivery method. And with current updates in technology the lecture is often supported with a deck of PowerPoint slides filled with the words being spoken by the presenter often times while reading directly from the screen or his printed copy. It is not surprising that this is the most common method. It is the easiest to develop and control and it is what learners often expect. This may just be why they dread coming to training.

What to Do?

Developing and delivering training sessions that will be pleasant surprises for the participants instead of dreaded events requires a learner-centered approach which is much different than a controlled lecture. I recommended some resources in my previous posts. In addition to those websites, there are a number of books that are also great resources. Sharon Bowman’s The Ten-Minute Trainer 150 Ways to Teach it Quick & Make it Stick is one of my favorites. Dave Meier’s The Accelerated Learning Handbook is another great resource to help you re-design your training. The ideas shared in these resources can be used with any topic, delivered to any group, and within any time frame. They can also be used in e-learning and web-based delivery methods.

Basic Premise

The resources listed focus the development of training on a four phase cycle. The four phases of the cycle include planned activities with a specific purpose of engaging the learner in the experience using multiple senses to explore the new material and connect with others in the learning community. The phases are designed based on what brain research tells us about learning. (See my previous post for more on this). The design methodology using these phases brings the theory into practice with great results.

What to Learn More?

In the next few weeks I will break down each phase with tips and tricks to use in each. I would also welcome you to share your experiences in training in the comments section. What experience can you describe that have been pleasant surprises or training nightmares?

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For more resources, See the Human Resources library.

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Sheri Mazurek is a training and human resource professional with over 16 years of management experience, and is skilled in all areas of employee management and human resource functions, with a specialty in learning and development. She is available to help you with your Human Resources and Training needs on a contract basis. For more information send an email to smazurek0615@gmail.com or visit www.sherimazurek.com. Follow me on twitter @Sherimaz.

Resources

http://www.bowperson.com/

http://www.alcenter.com/