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Section 1: Training

Hints for training workers

Presenting theoretical knowledge

Information in the form of background knowledge should be broken down into chunks in the same way that a skill is broken down into steps. Below are some suggestions on how to present new concepts and theoretical knowledge.

  • Present the information in chunks that can be covered in a self-contained session.

  • Keep the topic interesting and involve the learner in the discussion.

  • Show examples of products or processes where possible so that the learner can see what you're talking about. If you can't use real items, show photos, drawings or movie clips.

  • Allow for breaks periodically, say every one and a half hours, so that the learner can mentally relax before the next section.

  • Check that the learner understands the concepts you're presenting, and encourage them to ask questions if they're not clear on something.

  • Get the learner to put into practice what they have learnt, so they can actually apply the knowledge to the job. If you don't have the facilities to do this while you're running the course, set the learner particular activities to carry out when they get back on the job.

Here is an old Confucius saying that is just as applicable now as it was in Confucius's day.

    I HEAR
    and I forget

    I SEE
    and I remember

    I DO
    and I understand

From the trainer's perspective, this means that you can only really be sure that your learners have understood the message once they have actively 'demonstrated' it correctly.