5 Adult Learning Principles for Effective Training Techniques

If you’re new to training, you may be one of those thinking that adults can be trained with

traditional techniques used in schools and colleges. It would be true if you were living 20 years in

past, today things are quite different. Along with enhanced abilities and capabilities adults

possess, technology has made a huge impact on their knowledge and thinking. Unlike past,

when classroom setups and practical training used to dominate training industry, things have

changed because of the influx of hi-tech equipment, better training facilities and result-oriented

tools.

Moreover, researches have indicated that adults require far better techniques and more focused

approach in order to understand new concepts and learn new traits. That’s because they have

concrete thoughts and concepts which may be difficult to alter.

As a trainer, you need to understand different patterns of learning, to make your training

effective and profitable for your organization. Here are some major adult learning principles,

along with important training techniques to help you create result-oriented training sessions.

Principle – 1: They Want To Tell The World What They’re Capable of

You can expect a wealth of knowledge backed with practical experience in adult training sessions.

Adult learners are likely to share their stories with you and other trainees.

Technique:

You should encourage them to share relevant information. It always helps

improve the quality of training. The best way to engage them is to include

activities in which they can use their knowledge and skills.

Principle – 2: They’re Self-Directed And Decision Makers

As adults are better decision makers, you can expect them to argue and disagree on some topics. They

are self-directed individuals and prefer their instincts over external sources.

Technique:

Minimize arguments and conflicts in training by introducing problem -solving

activities. Put them under different situations related to their position as

employees, and indicate where they make mistakes. If someone comes up with a

better solution to a problem, accept and appreciate him.

Principle – 3: They Follow Different Learning Styles

They may disapprove the way you train them. So, be prepared to respect the way they’re comfortable

with.

Technique:

Don’t force them to learn your way. A flexible training is far better than one -

dimensional training.

Principle – 4: They’re Willing to Participate

By preventing them to participate in training, you’re actually increasing the level of boredom. It

means, you will not reach anywhere with all those manuals and training scripts.

Technique:

Include presentations, role plays, quizzes and discussion sessions to assess how

much they have learned.

Principle – 5: They Get Motivated By Meaningful Information

They can understand what’s relevant or irrelevant to their job. They might show reluctance or straight

forward discontent if you try to engage them in seemingly irrelevant activity. On the other hand,

they’re keen to take part in activities corresponding to their jobs.

Technique:

Emphasize on content and clearly indicate the outcomes of activities that

coincide with their original job.

Training room rental Singapore offers well furnished facilities to deliver professional training

for employees. All you need is, read and research your participants to add variety in your

training. This is the only way you can help organizations get quality workforce and best results.