Learning Methods - Essay Question

Question 1

On the Job Training (OJT)

Answer 1

New/Inexperienced employees learning in the work setting and during work by observing peers/managers performing the job and trying to imitate their behavior

Question 2

OJT advantages

Answer 2

Can be customized to trainees
Immediately applicable to the job
Trainees highly motivated to learn 
No productivity loss 
Readily available to perform
Easy transfer

Question 3

OJT Disadvantage

Answer 3

Need strict structure for consistency
Can pass on bad habits
May not include demonstration, practice, or feedback

Question 4

Preparing OJT Training

Answer 4

Break down job into important steps
Prepare necessary equipment, materials, and supplies
Decide how much time to devote to OJT and when you expect employees to be competent in all skill areas

Question 5

OJT Instruction Steps

Answer 5

Tell trainees objective of task and ask to watch you demonstrate
Show trainees how to do it without saying anything
Explain key points/behaviors
Show trainees how to do it again
Have trainees do one or more single parts of task and praise them for correct reproduction (optional)
Have trainees do entire task and praise them for correct reproduction
If mistakes are made, have trainees practice until accurate reproduction is achieved
Praise the trainees for their success in learning the task

Question 6

Effective OJT programs include

Answer 6

Policy statement that describes purpose of OJT and emphasizes company support for it
Clear specification of who is accountable for conducting OJT
Thorough review of OJT practices at other companies in similar industries
Training of managers and peers in principles of structured OJT
Availability of lesson plans, checklists, procedure manuals, etc
Evaluation of employees’ levels of basic skills before OJT

Question 7

Simulation

Answer 7

Training method that represents real life situation, with trainees’ decisions resulting in outcomes that mirror what would happen if they were on the job
Tend to test physical actions

Question 8

Simulation Pros

Answer 8

Identical to work environment

Risk-free decision making for trainees

Question 9

Simulation Cons

Answer 9

Expensive to develop

Constant updates needed to keep up with changes in work environment

Question 10

Role Play

Answer 10

Trainees act out characters assigned to them

Tend to test interpersonal skills

Question 11

For role play to be effective:

Answer 11

Explain purpose of activity
Clearly explain role play, characters’ roles, and time allotted for activity
During activity, monitor time, intensity, and focus of group’s attention
Debrief