Problems with communication

Whenever you have a situation where your learner hasn't properly understood something you've said, you need to think about where the problem in communication might have occurred. This will help you to identify any areas in your own communication style that might need to be improved.

Some common barriers to effective communication are:

• using big words that the learner doesn't understand
  
  
• using jargon - or technical words - without explaining what the terms mean
  
  
• mumbling or speaking too softly
  
  
• being boring, and not keeping the learner's interest
  
  
• saying things that are taken the wrong way, or making jokes that are insensitive
  
  
• not putting yourself in the learner's shoes, especially at times when they need extra help.

By thinking about your own communication techniques and improving them wherever you can, you'll become more aware of the situations where misunderstandings tend to happen, and be better able to overcome them before they occur.

Problems with difficult learners

The more training you do, the more likely you are to come across learners every now and then who make things difficult for you. The best response is not to be put off by it, but to deal with the situation in a level-headed way.

It's often the case that the reasons behind a learner's bad behaviour are quite independent of you or the training session. For example, they might be having problems at home, or they may have a medical condition such as Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), or they may simply be showing off because they need to feel noticed.

If you deal with problem learners in a firm but kind way, you'll not only enhance your standing with the rest of the group, you'll also be better placed to win the respect of the troublemaker and turn their behaviour around.

Below are some hints for dealing with difficult learners.

• Project an image of confidence and good humour. Don't react to minor cases of bad conduct.
  
  
• Maintain a relaxed atmosphere with the group and don't let yourself get ruffled.
  
  
• Show the participants that you have high expectations, but set standards that are well within their grasp.
  
  
• Don't give up on difficult learners. They may be having problems that you can help them to cope with once you've identified them - such as poor literacy skills or a lack of confidence.

Think about the characteristics of the learners you'll be training and the material you'll be covering.

What training techniques are likely to be the most effective for the theory components?

What techniques would work best for the practical sessions?

What technologies can you use to present the information?