Re: Training effectiveness

Rosamund Woodhouse (ros.woodhouse_at_utoronto.ca)
Fri, 17 Jul 1998 15:16:49 -0400

Taken together, the ed. psyc. lit would suggest several variables associated with
effectiveness of training in producing learning:
1) prior knowledge---the more learners already know about an area the better they
learn subsequently
2) time on task -- the greater the proportion of time spent on the activity being
trained, the better the learning
3) Training that promotes active, deep learning yields better learning (greater
comprehension, more durable and transferable knowledge)
4) Multiple methods of intervention are superior to single method interventions

A design principle that helps maximize these is that there is consistency between
the objectives, instructional method(s) chosen, and assessment methods.
Incidentally, some recent research is suggesting that incorporation of self and peer
assessment can have dramatic effects on learning.

I'm aiming for succinctness here--if you would like me to expand on any of these or
related issues, please feel free to contact me.

Ros Woodhouse, Ph.D.
University of Toronto
On Wed, 15 Jul 1998 19:15:52 -0400 CRMDEEN_at_aol.com wrote:

> From: CRMDEEN_at_aol.com> Date: Wed, 15 Jul 1998 19:15:52 -0400
> Subject: Training effectiveness
> To: crm-devel_at_db.erau.edu
>
>
> Hi gang, got a new question:
> Has anyone ever done a research study on the effectiveness of a
> particular technique of training, compared to others? Someone in my area has
> proposed changing our CRM teaching methods to do only case studies.
> My initial reaction is that while reviewing case studies, maybe even
> watching a video tape of the mishap, and trying to analyze what the mishap
> crew did and did not do, this is a very shallow approach to effective behavior
> modification. Isn't this only generalization, and not experiential? I
> certainly don't think it approaches a behavioral skill level that Vince
> Mancuso is advocating.
> The challenge I'm facing is telling these folks that while case studies
> are good, they are not AS good as some other techniques. So the question will
> be, HOW much better is experiential, role-play, exercises, etc. type of
> training? Does anyone have some supporting data or experiences?
>
> Greg Deen
> Raytheon