Training & Development

Question 1

Approaches to learning theory: How people learn:

Answer 1

1. Behaviourist psychology (Stimuli & response)

2. Cognitive approach (Interpret & rationalise)

Question 2

Lessons from learning theory: (5)

Answer 2

1. The individual should be motivated
2. Clear objectives and standards set
3. Timely, relevant feedback
4. Positive & negative reinforcement
5. Active participation (more telling!)

Question 3

Honey & Mumford: Psychological preferences: (4)

Answer 3

1. Theorists (Understand, intellectual, hands off)
2. Reflectors (Observce, think, take time)
3. Activists (Practical, flexible, hands on, pressure)
4. Pragmatists (See the link, improve tasks)

Question 4

Kolb: The Learning Cycle

Answer 4

Have an experience

1. Observe & Reflect (Reflection)
2. Form concepts and conclusions (Generalisation)
3. Apply in new situations (Application)

Question 5

The learning organisation is…

Answer 5

…an organisation that facilitates the acquisition and sharing of knowledge and the learning of all its members, in order continuously and strategically to transform itself in response to a rapidly changing and uncertain environment

Question 6

Strengths of learning organisations: (4)

Answer 6

1. Experimentation
2. Learning from past experience
3. Learning from others
4. Transferring knowledge quickly and efficiently

Question 7

Development is…

Answer 7

…the growth or realisation of a person’s ability and potential through the provision of learning and educational experiences

Question 8

Training is…

Answer 8

…the planned ans systematic modification of behaviour through learning events, programs and instruction which enable individuals to achieve the level of knowledge, skills and competence to carry out their work effectively

Question 9

Education is…

Answer 9

…knowledge acquired gradually, by learning and instruction; Particular knowledge or skills; Crucial for professional development

Question 10

Benefits of training to the organisation: (10)

Answer 10

1. Minimised costs of obtaining needed skills
2. Increased productivity
3. Fewer accidents (Health & safety)
4. Reduced supervisory costs
5. Felxibility
6. Recruitment & succession planning (Supply)
7. Retention
8. Change management (know why & skills)
9. Corporate culture (Build culture; meet people)
10. Motivation

Question 11

Limitations of training: Training cannot improve performance problems arising out of: (5)

Answer 11

1. Bad management
2. Poor job design
3. Poor equipment, layout or organisation
4. Lack of aptitude pr intelligence
5. Poor motivation (ability but not willingness!)

Question 12

Benefits of training to the employee: (4)

Answer 12

1. Enhanced skills portfolio
2. Psychological benefits (reassured; still of value)
3. Social benefit (Network, contacts)
4. The job (Do their job better)

Question 13

A 7-step systematic approach to training:

Answer 13

1. Identify and define training needs of the organisation
2. Define the learning required
3. Define training objectives
4. Plan training programs
5. Implement the training
6. Monitor, review and evaluate
7. Return to step 2

Question 14

Training needs are…

Answer 14

…the gap between what people should be achieving and what they actually are achieving
Required competence - present level = Training need

Question 15

The required level of competence can be determined by: (5)

Answer 15

1. Job analysis
2. Skills analysis
3. Role analysis
4. Existing records
5. Competence analysis (NVQs)

Question 16

A Personal Development Plan is…

Answer 16

…a clear developmental action plan for an individual which incorporates a wide set of developmental opportunities, including formal training.

Question 17

Off-the-job training (minimises risk): 4 Methods

Answer 17

1. Courses
   Day release, distance learning, Revision, Block release, Sandwich, Sponsored full-time
2. Computer-based
3. E-learning
4. Techniques (lectures, seminars, role pays, case studies, etc)

Question 18

On the job training (maximises transfer): 7 methods

Answer 18

1. Demonstration / instruction
2. Job rotation
3. Temporary promotion
4. Assistant to or job shadowing
5. Action learning (Discuss an issue; advisor helps identify skills)
6. Committees
7. Project work

Question 19

Validation of training is…

Answer 19

…observing the results of the course and measuring whether the training objectives have been achieved

Question 20

Evaluation of training is…

Answer 20

…comparing the costs of the scheme against the assessed benefits which are being obtained

Question 21

Approaches to development include: (4)

Answer 21

1. Management development
2. Career development
3. Professional development
4. Personal development