Instructional Skills Flashcards
What is the focus of Lesson 4 of CPDT‐KA Fundamentals?
Interpersonal and teaching skills, as well as management of the training environment
What are the key components of instructional skills discussed in this lesson?
Verbal and written skills, active listening, teaching for different learning styles, managing training environment for safety and distractions
How should professional language be used in a business setting?
Polite, attentive, and grammatically correct
What types of language should be avoided when working with clients?
Excessive slang, cursing, racial or lifestyle slurs
True or False: It is acceptable to use casual language with clients in a professional setting.
False
What should trainers be aware of regarding their own breed biases?
Approach each dog as an individual and challenge personal biases
What is an important part of active listening?
Paying attention, repeating what the client said for clarification
Fill in the blank: Trainers should always be ready to explain their _______.
Acronyms
What is the importance of asking clients if they have questions?
It confirms understanding and fosters approachability
What should you do if a client has special needs?
Be considerate and flexible, modifying training methods as needed
What does the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) provide for clients?
Fair treatment and accommodations for training
What is required of service dogs?
Learn and perform special skills to assist their owner/handler
What are some potential issues in a training environment?
Noise distractions, tight spaces, and safety hazards
How should trainers handle a difficult student?
Apply active listening, refocus the class, and maintain control
True or False: Trainers should ignore disruptive behavior from students.
False
What should a trainer do if a student’s behavior becomes unsafe?
Dismiss the student from class or end the session if necessary
What is the value of quality communication skills in training?
They help retain clients and make trainers more approachable
What should trainers have prepared for students with special needs?
At least two or three alternative methods for teaching a skill
What is an effective way to help dogs focus in distracting environments?
Teach skills like open bar or Look at That
Fill in the blank: Trainers should always keep the dog’s _______ as the priority.
Welfare
What can trainers do to accommodate clients who may need extra assistance?
Ask how to make things easier and be ready to assist
What should you do if a student’s behavior is a safety risk?
Review company policy; calling the police may be an option if the student will neither calm down nor leave.
How can quality communication skills benefit client retention?
They make you approachable and facilitate easier client interactions.
What is the saying that emphasizes the importance of good communication?
You catch more flies with honey.
If suggestions aren’t working, what should you do?
Talk to your client about why and be open to trying alternative methods.
What are the three primary learning styles in humans?
- Auditory learners
- Visual learners
- Hands-on learners
What is the characteristic of an auditory learner?
They can hear verbal instructions and quickly follow them.
What do visual learners need to replicate a skill?
They need to see something done before they can replicate it.
What defines hands-on learners?
They need to be walked through a manual skill before they can complete it.
What is a crucial part of teaching classes?
Demo dogs.
What should you consider when selecting a student dog for demonstration?
- Body language
- Energy level
- Skill level
What is the importance of a well-written lesson plan?
It should be easy for someone else to follow.
What should you include in a curriculum objective?
A clear mission statement identifying what the class will teach.
Fill in the blank: A well-written lesson plan can be taught by _______.
[an assistant or co-trainer]
What should handouts be like to be effective?
- Clear
- Easy to follow
- Relevant
What is a recommended way to continue education as a trainer?
Participate in seminars, webinars, and conferences.
What is the first concern when managing the training environment?
Overall safety.
What is a key consideration for indoor spaces regarding dogs?
Providing sufficient space for the dogs.
What should you communicate to students during orientation?
Information about blind corners, tight entryways, or other areas where run-ins could occur.
What are potential hazards of floors in indoor training spaces?
Slipperiness due to mopping, spills, or weather conditions.
What are some unique challenges of outdoor training spaces?
- Weather conditions
- Lack of fencing
- Disease control
What should you have in place for outdoor training regarding weather?
A set policy and procedure for calling class due to weather.
True or False: It is acceptable to ‘fire’ a client if you cannot come to agreeable terms.
True
What should you provide clients if you decide to end the relationship?
At least one referral to another trainer.
What can help in brainstorming ideas for training challenges?
Networking with trainers and mentors in your area.
Fill in the blank: It is important to set _______ to keep the trainer-client relationship professional.
[boundaries]
What should you do if a student’s dog is uncomfortable in class?
Give them some room and avoid dragging them into focus.
What should you do to ensure a successful demonstration with a demo dog?
Set yourself and the dog up to succeed.
What is the recommended frequency of introducing new behaviors in class?
No more than 2-3 new behaviors each week.
What is the goal of using a demo dog in class?
To demonstrate skills effectively and show that any dog can learn.
What can help students reference skills learned in class?
Handouts detailing each skill.
True or False: Handouts should be lengthy and detailed to ensure all information is covered.
False
What is a good practice for handouts regarding trainer contact information?
Brand them with your company logo, phone, email, and website.
What is a primary concern when handling dogs in outdoor spaces?
Disease control and safety while managing leashes and belongings
It is important to ensure that all vaccinations are up to date.
Why is it crucial to supervise dog interactions in training classes?
Owners may not recognize body language, leading to potential altercations
Even well-socialized dogs can have issues when face-to-face with another dog while leashed.
What is a recommended strategy to manage dog behavior in class?
Use visual barriers to separate dogs
This creates the illusion of more space and helps manage excited or fearful dogs.
What is the recommended class size for effective management?
6-7 teams for optimal safety and supervision
More than this may require an assistant to help manage the class.
Fill in the blank: Retractable leashes are _______ in class.
not allowed
What should instructors ensure regarding the classroom setup?
Everyone can see and hear the instructor clearly
Consider climate control equipment and potential distractions.
What are common distractions in dog training classes?
Barking dogs, owners entering or leaving, and children
Environmental distractions include noises from equipment or other dogs.
What is an effective way to handle students who are talking during class?
Ask if they have a question to redirect their focus
This can help discourage further chatting.
What is a recommended minimum age for children attending dog training classes?
12 years old
Younger children may be unable to remain calm and quiet during class.
What policy should be in place for aggressive or reactive dogs in class?
Have a plan for removing them and consider alternative training options
This may include applying class fees towards private training.
True or False: Distractions can be used as training opportunities.
True
What are some recommended reading materials for dog trainers?
- It’s Not the Dogs, It’s the People by Nicole Wilde
- The Human Half of Dog Training by Rise VanFleet
- Coaching People to Train Their Dogs by Terry Ryan
What should trainers do to prepare for potential distractions during outdoor classes?
Instruct owners to bring high-value reinforcers
Examples include treats like chicken to maintain dog focus.
What is an important consideration for classroom layout?
Provide enough space for each student to safely work with their dog
This prevents encroachment and potential conflicts between dogs.
