Do your Research on Training options

08-10-10- You have taken a decision to invest in training; but have you really done your research on the various learning options? Or are you following the path of status quo? What works for me may not necessarily work for you. There are a wide variety of learning options to choose from. So it has never been simply a matter of just settling for whatever comes along.

Go out and do your research.

Ask questions that take your needs into account. Choosing a learning option because it is popular smacks of a robotic “follow the crowd” mentality. If you want to break away from the pack you can’t afford to sheepishly follow convention.

Training is an individual experience.

It is about what works for you. Be honest with yourself. What training method/learning style suits you?

For instance, have you considered your work situation? Do you have the time after work to attend classes? How motivated will you be after a bruising day at the office? Have you considered weekend options? It is not just about investing in training.

Selecting the right training option is imperative.

Physical, face to face, classroom training is obviously the most common – it what we are all used to. But does that work for you? You must consider financial issues as well as physical limitations – to benefit you must physically be in the classroom during lecture hours. Can you commit to a regular, ongoing course at a training centre? What if the course is not offered in your location? With instructor led training when motivation is low, punctuality is poor and absenteeism is high. Can you learn at the pace of the training institution? Why pay so much money if you can’t be committed?

Did you do your research or you just followed the crowd?

Maybe you chose a wrong learning option.

When you have the time and the right motivation, quality instructor-led training produces results. It is regarded as the best for developing practical, hands-on skills. And if you require intensive technology learning in an intimidating area and you don’t feel the general classroom setting is ideal, you might consider taking a personalized course – just you and your individual tutor. Obviously such personal and specialist courses cost more than the typical public course.

However, suppose you are challenged by time or location; can you take a leave or a break? If you can’t don’t worry. It isn’t the end of the road.

Other options to consider are e-learning, study guides, books, CDs, videos and computer based training.

An example of this alternative training approach is the Project management, distance learning program we run that guides participants step by step in an instructor-led, hands-on, manner through the content by e-mail / via the Internet as if they are attending a residential workshop. With this program, participants learn anywhere, at their own pace and convenience. A considerable number of IT and non IT courses are also now available on CDs and the Internet.

Would you rather work completely to your own schedule, following a CD, book, video, or online tutorials? It isn’t unusual to find students who combine instructor-led training with study guides and CDs. In fact a combination of methods seems to work best for most. Simply do your homework.

No learning model is perfect. They all have their strengths and weaknesses. Your job is to choose what works for you.


 

Jide Awe

Jide Awe is the Founder of Jidaw.com (http://www.jidaw.com)

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