Train-the Trainer: Developing Training Delivery Skills

1. Train-the Trainer: Developing Training Delivery Skills ASTD Conference - June 6, 1996 Carol P. McCoy, Ph.D.

2. Workshop Objectives • Identify benefits and challenges of training “non-trainers” to train • Identify qualities of effective line trainers • Plan for an effective process to produce skilled trainers • Identify keys to a successful train-the-trainer workshop • Identify and plan to overcome pitfalls

3. Benefits to Developing Training Skills of Others • Maximize resources • Close to the business • Expertise and credibility • Relevance and ownership • Learning opportunity

4. Critical Challenges • Job pressures & priorities • Assuring quality • Need for preparation • Facilitator versus expert • Administrative support

5. Criteria for Selecting Trainers • Sponsorship • Credibility • Facilitation Skills • Commitment

6. Train-The-Trainer Process 1. Preparation Phase (Observe & Study) 4. Follow Up Support & Tracking 2. Train the Trainer Workshop 3. Preparation Practice & Delivery

7. 1. Preparation Phase • Attend Program as Participant • Study the Leader’s Guide • Self-Assess Facilitation Skills • Prepare for Train the Trainer Workshop

8. Effective Leader’s Guides • Have a user-friendly format • Include purpose, objectives, key points • List agenda with times • Explain activities • Avoid scripts • Include all AV

9. 2. Train the Trainer Workshop:Keys to Success...Climate Setting • Personal Learning Goals • Key Message of Program Is Clear • Safe, Supportive Learning Environment • Learn From Peer Observation & Coaching

10. 2. Train the Trainer Workshop:Keys to Success...Practice • Walk Through the Leader’s Guide • Model Key Program Segments • Give Practice & Improvement Opportunities • Provide Useful Feedback • Self-assess first • Highlight strengths • Provide a few suggestions • Videotape Practice

11. 3. Preparation and Practice: Post TTT Workshop • Teach with an experienced co-facilitator • Plan for preparation & rehersal • Provide coaching and support • Train the program administrator • Plan for timely delivery of program

12. 4. Follow Up Support and Tracking • Follow up to ensure they are doing well • Provide needed coaching • Take action to ensure adequate quality • Reward and recognize contributions • Create learning networks

13. Common Pitfalls in Training Line Trainers • Sponsors nominate “warm bodies” • Novice trainers underestimate preparation • Guides give too much or too little information • Process makes people self-conscious • No plan for remedial skill building

14. Success Strategies • Ensure there is business support • Choose the right people • Expose people to content & process • Allow time for practice and coaching • Support and encourage resources • Reward people for helping • Develop a learning network