Page 385 - The Creative Training Idea Book Inspired Tips and Techniques for Engaging and Effective Learning

lucas chap 10 11/20/02 1:11 PM Page 374
374 The Creative Training Idea Book
Establish a Special Award
An award for some special performance can be used to enhance participant pride and
spirit. The award does not even have to be serious in nature. For example, you might
create a No. 1 Team Player certificate. Have learners vote for the winner at the end of the
session. The certificate can be colorful with balloons or a group of cartoon characters
on it along with the wording. I recently used something similar to this at a leadership
retreat and the learners loved it.
Say “Thank You”

In addition to having learners say “Thank you,” take the time at the end of your session
to thank participants for helping make the session a valuable learning experience and
for what you learned from them. Follow this expression of gratitude with a reminder
that you are available as a resource in the future, then provide your contact information
if you have not done so.
Point Out Successes

Too many facilitators look for things that learners do wrong. For example, mistakes on
tests are typically highlighted with red ink. Try highlighting “correct” and creative answers
with a neon highlighter marker or giving positive strokes in class regularly.

PUTTING YOUR BRAIN TO WORK: ACTIVITY

What value do you see for addressing the intrinsic motivators of your learners?

What other intangible strategies can you think of to recognize your learners?

BRIGHT I DEA
Mystery Learner
his is a variation of a technique used by the Central Florida Chapter of the
TAmerican Society for Training & Development in Orlando, Florida, to make new
members and guests feel welcome at monthly meetings.
As learners arrive for a session, select one at random to be your “mystery learner”
whose role is to network and enjoy refreshments without drawing attention or
identifying himself or herself as a special person. Ask the learner to remember the