When you're training adults, you need to take into account different styles of learning. In practice, most people learn through a combination of learning styles, but it's often the case that an individual will prefer one style over others.

For example:

• Visual learners like to observe a job being performed and see the results. In a training session, they learn best by watching demonstrations and looking at examples of products and outcomes.
  
  
• Auditory learners prefer speaking and listening. They learn best through verbal instruction, question and answer sessions and discussions.
  
  
• Kinaesthetic learners learn by doing, and remember best through hands-on practice.

As a trainer, you should use a variety of techniques to ensure that each of the different learning styles is being catered for. This will also help to reinforce the 'multi-sensory experience' of the learners as their senses work together, and help to keep them interested and stimulated.

Think about some of the learning experiences you've had as an adult.

What learning styles work most effectively for you?

Now think about some of the best training sessions you've attended as a student.

What techniques did the trainer use to appeal to different learning styles?

Which techniques did you find the most successful in getting the message across?