(before the normal work routine begins). Allowingpersonnel to learn by doing (skill) is also moreeffective than giving them group lectures(knowledge).To be successful, training MUST be a normal,scheduled part of the division routine, while on-the-job training should be continuous in everywork center. Allow time for a carefully thought-out, hands-on training program that is free fromthe ordinary pressure of everyday work. Trainingshould include a certain amount of repetitivenessto be effective. It should also take place for shortperiods on a frequent basis rather than for longerperiods spaced farther apart. Effective trainingshould last 45 minutes to 1 hour and be held threetimes a week. Training conducted for 2 or 3 hoursonce a week simply isn’t as effective.Instruction and EvaluationThe training requires instruction of personneland evaluation of their individual progress andability to function efficiently and safely as a team.AnalysisAn analysis of training effectiveness involvesobserving group and individual performance,comparing results with standard criteria, andrecognizing deficiencies and methods for improve-ment.REQUIREMENTS FOR EFFECTIVETRAININGWe discussed the three features that make awell-developed and effective training program.Now, we will cover five requirements of effectivetraining. As you read each of the requirements,ask yourself, Am I using this step or requirementin my training now?1. Dynamic instruction —You need to prepareinstruction that shows you have a thoroughknowledge of the subject and then present theinformation in a professional manner. Repeatinformation for emphasis only.2. Personal interest —Persons in authoritymust show an interest in your training program.Division Officers must ensure the petty officersresponsible for training and qualifyingsubordinates know the subject matter. The pettyofficers must also possess the practical skills toclearly demonstrate and communicate the subjectmatter.3. Quality control —The chain of commandmust reinforce training. A senior member can dothat by questioning subordinates aboutinformation they are credited with knowing or byrequiring them to demonstrate skills they haveattained.4. Technical support —Supervisors mustensure manuals, technical publications, operatingprocedures, safety precautions, and otherreferences required for training are available andcurrent.5. Regular schedule —You must scheduleinstruction on a regular basis.TRAINING METHODSOf the many training methods available, youwill find some work more effectively for you thanothers. You will also find that each method hasits pros and cons.THE SCHOOL OF HARD KNOCKSMETHODThe “school of hard knocks” is the leasteffective method of training. When using thismethod, a supervisor places trainees in a worksituation and leaves them to learn as best they canon their own. That is a crude and wasteful wayto learn. It does not guarantee trainees will learnthe skills they need to do their jobs properly. Italso encourages the development of bad workinghabits that are frequently difficult to correct.THE APPRENTICESHIP METHODThe apprenticeship method involves on-the-job training of personnel individually or in smallgroups by experienced workers. The experiencedworkers show the trainees the ropes and teachthem all they need to know about their jobs.Properly used, this method can be extremelysuccessful. Unfortunately, it also has manydrawbacks. Its success depends on the quality ofthe experienced worker as an instructor. Itssuccess also depends on the quality of the trainingguides the instructor and the trainee use. Withouta training guide, the instructor may forget someinformation or inadvertently pass on bad workhabits. Problems arise when the instructor neglectsto preplan, is not a good instructor, or resentsbeing saddled with an apprentice to train.5-2
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