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A recent client shared how impressed he was with our ability to create a positive learning environment, have widespread learner participation, and make it all appear so effortless. He then wanted to know how to replicate this recipe and learner experience in his own courses.
There are so many factors to consider to ensure training is effective. For now, I’ll highlight the five key ingredients that will surely lay the foundation for any course to succeed.
Design and Development
Solid training begins with the design of the program. Following an efficient Instructional Systems Design (ISD) model is the foundation for the recipe for success. The ADDIE model is steeped into the Langevin Design Cycle which, when properly followed, will set any designer on the path to creating training that is interactive, engaging, and relevant.
Presentation, Application, and Feedback – PAF
PAF is a critical seasoning for effective training. Common sense tells us we learn by doing. Yet, some training is designed with one component only—presentation. Most trainers have heard that “Telling Ain’t Training!” It is important to supplement the presentation with application and feedback in their proper proportions (i.e. presentation = 1/3 of the training time and application and feedback = 2/3 of the training time). This ratio allows time for the learners to practice and receive feedback on what they’ve been taught. This will ultimately set learners up for success back on the job.
Variety of Methods
It’s important to spice up the training by incorporating a variety of presentation, application, and feedback methods. When selecting a method, consider how suitable it is to the task (content) being taught and to the target audience, as well as the available training time, design time, and budget. Using variety in your methods will increase the potential to appeal to different learning preferences, as well as satisfy the many different taste buds.
Brainteasers, Icebreakers, and Energizers
Langevin is known for incorporating brainteasers, icebreakers, and energizers throughout the training day. These items add a special flavor to the learning experience. Learners are often surprised at the impact they have on creating a positive group dynamic. At the same time, they are a little resistant to using them in their own environment.
It is important to consider your learners in the selection process and identify what would work best for them. We’ve had the privilege of working in many different environments and would say that experimenting with the many brainteaser and icebreaker flavors has created an atmosphere that clearly sends a message that learning can be enjoyable and fun!
Training for the Trainers
We should never throw our trainers out there without the tools to sell the delicious meal called training. They need to be able to enthusiastically communicate the savory ingredients and incredible benefits to provide the hook of excitement and gain buy-in from the learner.
It is our hope that you will incorporate these five key ingredients for effective training. We have no doubt that when you do, it will surely set your training up for success. Remember, when experimenting with a new recipe, it sometimes helps to take a cooking class. After all, we learn by doing. There are many more delicious training ingredients to explore. Let’s savor them together!
New trainers might want to start with New Trainer’s Survival Skills and How Adults Learn—both workshops focus on a recipe for effective training and successful learning.
One Response to “5 Key Ingredients for Effective Training”
Job training programs are truly transformative in today’s dynamic work landscape. They bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical skills, providing individuals with the tools they need to excel in their careers.