Page 192 - The Creative Training Idea Book Inspired Tips and Techniques for Engaging and Effective Learning

lucas chap 05 11/20/02 12:13 PM Page 181
Creating a Stimulating Learning Environment 181
To make sure that you and your learners operate at peak potential and that effective
learning occurs, you should consider various elements related to nutrition as you pre-
pare your sessions. Many trainers provide food and refreshments for learners in the
morning, at lunchtime, and for breaks. This is a great idea as long as you provide the
right foods, include an assorted variety, and provide ample beaks so that learners can
take advantage of whatever you provide.
Because many people fail to eat breakfast, providing food when participants arrive can
be beneficial for them and you. Studies show that the brain needs complex carbohydrates
found in fruits, grains, cereals, and breads to function effectively. To assist in fulfilling
this need, you might want to ensure that a variety of nonsweet as well as sweet items are
offered (e.g., muffins, croissants, and bagels) along with fresh fruit. Simply offering donuts
and other sweet pastries often overloads learners with simple carbohydrates (e.g., sugar)
that provide a spike, then a letdown as energy levels subside. On the other hand, if you
want to provide a quick stimulant and pump up sugar and performance levels for a spe-
cific activity or task, consider providing candy, cookies, brownies, or other sweet treats.
If you are providing lunch, consider carefully what you will serve. Keep the meal light
and healthy and ensure that you provide proteins in the form of fish, shrimp, or chicken
instead of heavier red meats. Avoid turkey because it contains a natural chemical amino
acid called l-tryptophan that acts as a sedative and relaxes participants after lunch. Also,
provide a variety of fresh vegetables and fruits.
In mid-afternoon, you may want to replenish nutrition levels by providing complex
carbohydrates, such as fruit, juices, or grains. If you supply sweets, make sure that you
also provide nonsweet alternatives. Also, if you provide popcorn or other snack foods,
take it easy on salts and oils.

BRIGHT I DEA
Stimulate Learning
emember what you read about the effects of apple and peppermint scents?
RMaximize the benefits of that research by offering small pieces of candy with
those flavors as rewards for task or activity completion.

PUTTING YOUR BRAIN TO WORK: ACTIVITY

What types of foods and refreshments do you normally provide or receive in training sessions?

Based on what you have read, what other options might you want to consider? Why?