Training materials
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Introduction
Training materials form an integral part of the training process. The material is used to support the training process from the trainer’s perspective and enhance learning for the trainee. When selecting training materials consider the following questions:
- How will the material help the trainee to learn?
- Does the material suit the training method?
- Can the trainer use the material effectively during the training session?
- Can it be used at the training facility?
- Is it easy for the trainees to use the material?
- Is it the best medium / format to convey information, concepts, facts, skills, attitude, etc?
- How will the training objectives be achieved with the selected training materials?
Types of training materials
For ease of discussion training materials can be divided into three broad categories: Audio-visual aids, written material and online / computerized resources.
Audiovisual aids
Examples of audio-visual aids:
- Chalk / white board
- Flip chart
- Models
- Posters
- Photographs
- Overhead transparencies & projectors
- Slides
- Videos
Written material
Examples of written material:
- Training manuals
- Workbooks
- Instructions for using equipment
- Instructions on procedures / processes
- Checklist to facilitate planning
- Flow charts for decision making
- Reference sheets
Online or computerized resources
This group of materials includes anything that needs a computer to run on. Examples of online resources:
- Online training manuals
- Other online company information
- Online presentations such as PowerPoint presentations.
- CD-ROM programmes
- E-learning programmes
- Web-based programmes
Planning and development of materials
When developing training materials, careful consideration should be given to the following points in the planning stage:
- The audience – their learning needs & styles, the experience and knowledge level of the subject before training.
- The trainer who handles the material – their knowledge and skill in using the material.
- The suitability of the material to the training methods used.
- How will it enhance the learning process?
- Resources available to develop the training material.
- Ease of use of the training material during the training session
- User-friendliness for the trainees.
- Accuracy of information, relevancy of content to training programme are important factors
- Will it stimulate the interest of the trainees and motivate them to learn?
- How will the participants use the materials when they are not in the classroom environment
- Copyright and other intellectual property protections