Elements of Effective Instruction

course summary

Few managers have any understanding of how adults learn . . . consequently they are frequently inept when it comes to training or coaching subordinates. They may know their subject well enough, but they don't understand when training is needed (instead of better direction or closer supervision) and they don't know how to test whether the trainee has actually learned or simply nodded his\her head. They can't organize a topic, specify outcomes, provide relevant practice or feedback, and often don't understand why training won't fix the problem in some circumstances.
      In this four-lesson computer-based tutorial, the principles of adult learning are clearly explained and illustrated. It offers practical suggestions for organizing a presentation, providing practice and reinforcement, and tips on improving long-term retention. The course content includes:

• Needs & outcomes: writing instructional objectives;
• How adults learn: the role of practice and feedback;
• Instructional skills: organizing the presentation, providing practice and feedback;
• The teachable moment; when trainees are most receptive to learning.

The program often is used as a train-the-trainer supplement, but most clients use it to train supervisors, field sales managers and branch managers.