Page 400 - The Creative Training Idea Book Inspired Tips and Techniques for Engaging and Effective Learning

lucas chap 10 11/20/02 1:11 PM Page 389
Bridge the Learning Celebrating Successes 389
During your closing, incorporate a solid review of session objectives by specifically
addressing how each was addressed. Instead of assuming that all learners “get it,” help
them to bridge or connect mentally the elements of the learning. Answer any questions
they have and spend time reviewing how each learning objective is related.

Help Transfer Learning

Provide ways in which participants can apply what they have learned to their lives out-
side the classroom. Some people are not good at extracting information and applying
it to other situations. Whereas a point or concept may seem simple to you, other people
may be very linear in their thinking and do not recognize abstract or direct applications.
This is similar to what I have discussed related to taking everyday items, such as toys,
and using them as training aids.

Show Return on Investment (ROI)

Remind participants of what they have gained in terms of knowledge, skills, and/or
attitude. By defining more value, you can enhance perceptions about you and the train-
ing experience. Value can be equated with such things as financial gain for them and
the organization, personal goals and advancement, improved working conditions, and
assistance to peers and customers.

Answer “What’s Next?”

Provide a means for participants to determine what they should do to continue the
learning begun during the session. It also identifies resources for their future use. This
is similar to my providing you with dozens of tools and contact points for information
and products in the appendices. Encourage learners to continue the learning process
once they leave the room.

Provide a Roadmap to Success

This is related to the preceding paragraph. Help learners develop a strategy or action
plan for implementing what they have learned. It is good that you give people the tools;
however, some people need an extra push because of time constraints in the workplace
or because of lack of planning skills. You can accomplish this by providing time for the
creation of a personal action plan during your closing. Give the format for such a plan
and have them complete it before leaving the room. Such a strategy should include spe-
cific next steps (e.g., contact XYZ Company to get a catalog of toys and incentives). Each
of these steps should be measurable in terms of time (e.g., before November 15) or other