February 2006

Inside this issue:

1. What's the Big Deal About Delivery Methods?

2. Tip of the Month – Sharing Your Success

3. Q & A – Deuling PowerPoint?

4. Final Thoughts.

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1. What's the Big Deal About Delivery Methods?

Last month we dared to introduce the question, “Why does classroom remain the primary delivery method for training? “. It seems that despite the buzz e-learning is not outpacing classroom learning. In fact classroom has remaining constant. Why? Technology changes to training have been constant since the beginning of time. We started with paper and pen, then, chalkboards, flip charts, overhead projectors, television, computers, and now the Internet.

The changes are like a pebble dropped into a pond. Each new technology is the big splash, with ripples spreading across the training pond. Over time the impact diminishes and we were left with the smooth surface the pond again. Is e-learning the latest pebble? Will the training pond eventually smooth out to its traditional classroom form?

Numbers published in Training magazine (Dec. 2005) indicate that classroom training remains high (approx. 70%). The new technology advantages are clearly documented, so why does classroom remain the primary delivery method? Typical answers: Classroom training is more effective; learners prefer classroom training; and, it costs too much to develop e-learning.

A search of current literature provides some interesting themes. The research suggests e-learning is more effective than classroom. At best there is a range of preferences based on age, technical skills, learning style, prior experience with e-learning. Successful e-learning experience is promoted as the best way to generate a positive preference for e-learning. And, a business case could be made to show e-learning is more cost effective then classroom training for certain situations.

It appears from the literature that e-learning can cost less, be more effective, and good e-learning will win over the learners. If this is true, why is classroom training still so dominant? We’d like to get your thoughts.

Click to take our mini survey on Delivery Methods. Survey now closed.

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2. Tip of the Month – Sharing Your Success

Too often in the training department we have our blinders on. We are focused on getting that next course ready, or delivering the next workshop. And while this is key, and likely meeting our performance objectives, it’s not letting the rest of the organization in on what we are doing. Remember to let the outside world (outside of the training department) know when things are going well, and about positive feedback you get. Meeting the goals of a training program, achieving positive performance results, completing a training intervention on time and budget are note-worthy happenings. Keeping the rest of the organization posted on the training wins increases your profile and positive contribution to the organization. In the long run it’s easier to be taken seriously and be seen as making a valuable contribution to the health and vitality of your organization if you’re visible.

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3. Q & A - Dueling PowerPoint?

Seems our theme of classroom delivery this month extends also to the question of the month. “I’m using a laptop for my PowerPoint Presentation in my training class. If there any way to have the overheads appear on one (separate) screen and have my notes appear on the laptop screen?”

The good news is YES, you can have a presenter view and student view with PowerPoint. There are few steps involved, but it’s well worth the effort. Click to see FKA’s online PowerPoint tutorial

Have a training or learning question? Simply reply to this email, and we’ll track down an answer. You might even see your question in a future edition of Learning Exchange.

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4. Final Thoughts

Say “blended learning” and our minds jump to a combination of e-learning and classroom learning working together to meet a training need. But, don’t forget that at its core blended learning is a combination of two or more types of training. Let the training / learning need drive the selection of training delivery. A self-directed, paper-based reading assignment with a conference call tele-session is blended learning. As is a video taped lessons followed by an asynchronous threaded email discussions. Pick delivery methods that will create a successful performance improvement intervention.

Michael Nolan, President, FKA

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Where’s FKA?

See us next at Training Spring, Orlando, FL, March 3-8, 2006. Attend the FKA Instructional Design Certificate program – delivered by FKA insider Bev Colpitts. Or see FKA President Michael Nolan present an exciting new session “Blended Learning Success Story: Revitalizing New Hire Training”. You can even stop by booth #507 in the expo hall for conversation and a chance to win a cool prize. http://www.trainingconference.com
For your complementary expo pass, a $35 value, use the FKA VIP code when you register online:
VIP Code – TR617

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Recommended Resource:

No time for a workshop, or just need to brush up on you classroom delivery skills? Use FKA’s Trainer Certification Coach. This robust CD-based learning tool combines real classroom video with an interactive interface showcasing the skills and competencies of excellent instructors. View two different styles of lesson, as well as pre and post training activities! A self- assessment guide is also included. Regular price $199, special Learning Exchange price of $49.95 (plus shipping and handling). Click to order today!

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Become a member! Join other savvy learning and performance professionals in the know and become an FKA Member. Membership is f r e e, and it gives you access to the special members area of the FKA website. This area is loaded with tips, tricks, articles, forums and more. Become a member today!

http://www.fka.com/linktracker.asp?name=members

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Attention meeting planners: looking for dynamic speakers for your upcoming company event? Consider an FKA expert. We can speak on a wide variety of training, learning and performance topics in an interactive and learner- centered format. Call us at 1-800-352-5585 or 613-829-3412.

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If you like these tips, please forward them on to your colleagues, clients and friends. Don’t forget to become an FKA Member for access to lots more great training, learning and performance information:

http://www.fka.com

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Copyright 2006 Friesen, Kaye and Associates. All rights reserved.

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