Teaching  ADULTS

Most adults will be keen to learn if they know the training will benefit them directly. It should be timely and result in greater work satisfaction, increased self-esteem and give a better quality of life.   

Five of the best tips when training adults

* Training should be timely and relevant       

          Adults learn best when they realise they need to update their present skills, or learn new ones.

* Involve trainees in their training

          Get the participants to help identify their needs and decide on the topics to be covered. Concentrate on practical tasks – doing things and seeing things, not listening to lectures.

          Encourage them to share their experiences. The older they are the greater the reservoir of experiences and stories to share.

* Make training enjoyable and stress-free     

          Use a variety of training methods.

          Keep trainees entertained with useful exercises, games and competitions. Have fun!

* Challenge the trainees

          Keep them active and busy and above all, make them think.

          Use challenging assignments to build their confidence.

          Reward superior efforts. Give small prizes.

* Appeal to the desire for advancement

          Leave trainees with a sense of achievement and satisfaction and, hopefully, inspiration!

          Returns from learning should be more earnings.

–Geoffrey Moss

“A sense of achievement is one of our most satisfying experiences, especially in learning.” 

Source: “Training Secrets.  Helping adults learn”,  published by Moss Associates Ltd & Cengage Learning Asia. Also available as an e-book from Amazon.com.

          “Training Ways , Helping Adults Learn”, MAF Information, N.Z. ; “The Corporate Trainer’s Quick Reference”, BUSINESS ONE IRWIN,USA; “The Trainer’s DESK Reference”, Kogan Page, U.K.