Effective Training

Adult Learning

Train the Trainer Program

Key Points For Effective Training Sessions

Every training session is not a smashing success. Why is this? There are important reasons.
The following points will help reduce failed training efforts.

• Clearly describe the OVERALL positive end result the participants will achieve as a result of this training. Remember, promotion precedes presentation.
• Clarify the SPECIFIC improvements you are aiming at in your training session (in terms of skills, knowledge and attitudes)
• Have an organized schedule and process that maximizes participant involvement. (never lecture for more than 10 minutes before getting the group involved in a discussion, exercise or activity)
• Use "guided discovery" as a means to draw out the learnings of the participants. This requires the skilled use of questions which naturally invite them to discover what is true for them.
• As a trainer, your responsibility is to MAXIMIZE LEARNING & SET A POSITIVE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT. You are a "guide on the side", not the "sage on the stage". Anything that you do that does not fulfill this responsibility needs to be tossed from your professsional kitbag. Make sure you are treating every participant as an adult, fully capable and fully self determining.
• Maintain a fast pace to keep interest and involvement. Use small groups to explore topics and answers to problems rather than you 'tell' them.
• Finish each session or module with a summary that captures the main points.

When delivering feedback to participants, remember the following:

• Ask them first what they think they did well and what they could have improved on(strengths and weaknesses).. The participants will usually point out their problems
• Then ask the other participants what they observed (both strengths and weaknesses).
• You should be the last person to comment and only to mention points the others have missed. REMEMBER: Always start your feedback with their strengths, then proceed to their weaknesses and then back to another strength. Self esteem is a fragile thing that must always be kept in mind.