Individual Training Methods

Individual training methods can be either “instructor-led” or self-paced.

Drill

When you need to teach an important physical skill, a drill will help learners retain the action through repetition.

For example, if you need to teach safe lifting techniques for heavy loads, assign a set of repeating movements for learners to practice.

Demonstration

Many visual learners benefit from seeing the skill in action.

Demonstrating a particular action or competency will show learners how instead of just explaining the concept verbally.

For example, if you need to teach learners how to safely raise a forklift load, get on the forklift and show them step-by-step how to operate the lift function.

Testing

Evaluate how much knowledge learners retain by using a quiz or assessment. This can help you to identify areas of opportunity throughout the session.

Testing can also involve acting out a particular function such as when trying new software to measure the outcome.

Much of your training programs will include assessments and tests not only at the conclusion of the training but strategically positioned throughout the program.

Video-Based Training

Learners can watch videos that deliver the training content in a visually engaging format. These can be videos you create or part of a pre-packaged course, where the video covers a specific skill or concept.

Many self-paced modules incorporate video content, while you can also use videos for an instructor-led session.

For example, after lecturing trainees on how to abide by safety regulations, you can show a video on the safety mistakes to avoid in the workplace.

Interactive Computer-Based Training

Online training has become one of the most popular methods of training in the last several years. It saves times and delivers a consistent message, among other things.

Self-paced online modules are more effective when the learners have some level of interaction with the content. This is used in the form of drag and drop matches, radio buttons, scenario stimulation or other interactive elements.

For example, at the end of the lesson, the module prompts trainees to drag and drop terms to match up the definitions.

Reading

Give learners digestible content to read through.

Adult learners want something snackable, so try not to hand out extensive reading assignments. Reinforce the reading with an engagement activity such as assessment or group discussion to ensure the trainees are able to apply the content they’ve read.

For example, when introducing a topic you can assign learners a 2-page reading, and afterward, lead a group discussion on the content.

Independent Study

Assign learners a task or case study to look through on their own. You can assign them to research a particular topic and return with their findings.

For example, when reviewing a particular safety regulation, ask trainees to identify a historical instance where a major corporation violated best practices and later discuss how those situations could have been avoided.