How to Get the Most from a Training Course
We have put together a few pointers to ensure you get the best possible experience from a training course.
Before the Course
Before you attend the course, have a read through the course overview and objectives, and consider what you are personally looking to gain from the course. Are you looking to learn a new skill, gain confidence, enable career progression? If there is any suggested pre-course learning or assignments, ensure you complete these as this will help with the learning process, and guarantee you are ready to gain the maximum benefit from the course.
During the Course
Join in
Most training courses are designed to be an interactive learning experience. Instructors may ask questions or set small tasks for candidates, to help them develop the necessary skills to complete the course successfully. Taking an active role in the course will not only reinforce learning, but will provide you with a higher level of both confidence, and competence.
Ask Questions
Never be afraid to ask questions! Instructors will be well prepared for learners asking questions; they actively encourage it. They should answer your points, open them up as a discussion to other group members or find out the answers after the course and get back to you.
After the Course
So, you have successfully completed your training course…. What next?
Take some time to reflect on the course, and the new skills you have gained. Regularly review the learning materials provided on it. It’s all too easy to put them in a drawer and forget about them!
Develop a Post-Training Action Plan
Now it’s time to put your new skills into practice. Don’t head back to the workplace expecting things to change immediately. Take some time to consider what your approach to change will be.
Many courses will provide time for action planning, and offer insight on how to integrate and apply your learning in the workplace after the program is over. If your course doesn’t include this, develop your post-training action plan. It could include points such as:
What have I learned?
Where could it be used in my job?
Can I interact with my co-workers through peer-to-peer training initiatives to strengthen my new skills?
What specific actions can I take to try out my newly acquired knowledge and expertise in the workplace?
What obstacles might prevent me from actually doing this?
What strategies can I implement to avoid those obstacles?
How will I be held accountable for taking these actionsf
