Train Me Like an Adult
Too often, an employer looks for a "one-size-fits-all" training fix for a problem employee. They use the same form of training with everyone, and then wonder why a particular employee doesn't improve. If you're stuck in that unproductive rut, it may be because you've ignored some unique aspects of adult learning.
One of the best ways to make a positive difference in job performance is to provide training that involves a clear understanding and implementation of adult learning theories. In order to provide meaningful training, you must address adult learners' needs.
Adult learners ...
- Are motivated intrinsically (by nature) and extrinsically (by rewards)
- Are more motivated to learn if they know why they need to learn something
- Are more motivated to learn when they have control over how they learn
- Are more motivated to learn when they have control over what they learn
- Learn more effectively if they can tie new learning to past knowledge and experiences
Adult learning requirements:
--Does this training have anything to do with my job and its responsibilities?
Informal environment--Stressful environments make it difficult to process new information
A desire to learn--When I want to learn, I'm more apt to learn
A benefit-based format--What will I gain by learning this? Will it make my job easier? Will I reap career advancement opportunities?
Two-sided communication--Give me a chance to ask questions and receive feedback
Constructive feedback--I can't improve if I don't know what I'm doing right or what I'm doing wrong or how I can improve
Active participation--Let me actively apply my knowledge and skills
Repetition and practice--I need time and opportunities to learn and apply my knowledge and skills
Multisensory input and output--Let me learn and demonstrate my knowledge and skills in many different ways
Some control over the learning experience--Give me choices when appropriate
When you're looking for ideas and advice on how to give your employees what they need, look to SkillPath's expert trainers at the practical and information-packed, one-day seminar
Coaching and Teambuilding Skills for Managers and Supervisors. There's one coming soon to a city near you.
