Prepare Your Learners

 

 by Richard Buse

 

Accelerated Learning incorporates four learning phases: Preparation, Presentation, Practice, and Performance. At the May Accelerated Learning SIG, participants discussed the following aspects of the Preparation phase, and provided ideas for addressing each aspect:

 

Provide Positive Energy with:

• Positive Suggestions;

  • Send teaser emails

  • Give learners a vision of what they will be able to do at the end of class

  • Show enthusiasm

• A Positive Physical Environment;

  • Make sure heating, air conditioning and lighting are at proper levels

  • Use colorful props and displays

  • Choose a venue that’s conveniently located

• A Positive Social Environment;

  • Create teams right away

  • Have participants learn about and introduce each other

  • Use icebreakers

• Address WIIFM (What’s in it for Me):

  For the Learner;

  • Skills to make their jobs easier

  • Greater visibility at work/greater potential for raises and promotions

  • More enjoyment at work

  For the Organization;

  • A more skilled employee

  • A more productive employee

  • New skills that integrate with workplace goals

 

Create a Preparation Kit for Learners:

• Emphasize Value;

  • Description of goals and benefits

  • An admission ticket provided or signed by manager

  • Cover letter from manager

• Emphasize Engagement;

  • A pre-class question requiring an answer

  • A quilt or puzzle piece for assembly in class

  • An object related to the course

• Emphasize Excitement;

  • Email with colorful graphics related to class

  • Hints for succeeding at initial team-building quiz

  • Candy bar in a special wrapper or with a class-related note attached

 

The Accelerated Learning SIG meets each month at 8 p.m., immediately following the regular Dallas ASTD meetings. For more information, contact Betty Viguet, Accelerated Learning SIG coordinator, at: Betty_Viguet@administaff.com

 

About the Author:  Richard Buse is an independent writer/consultant. His assignments include developing training materials as well as providing writing services for marketing and public relations efforts.  Contact Richard at Busewrites@aol.com or (972) 937-3973.