Preparing a successful training session is easy so long as the trainer has an organized mindset and can follow the five pillars of the training cycle.
This blog will explain what the five pillars are and will help guide you as a trainer in delivering valuable training in a healthy learning environment.
Stages of effective training cycle
1. Stage one – Planning
Planning is the first and most important step in the training cycle. It sets the stage for success and ensures that every aspect of the session is thoughtfully prepared. This stage involves "thinking in advance," where you establish clear objectives and identify the resources needed to meet them.
Effective planning helps you:
Define the scope of the training.
Stay focused on your goals.
Set realistic deadlines.
Measure success.
Conduct a thorough debrief after the session.
A well-organized plan lays a solid foundation for delivering a meaningful and goal-oriented training session.
2. Stage two – training needs analysis (TNA)
TNA is an essential Stage of training cycle for understanding the diverse needs of your learners. This stage examines factors like social interaction, intellectual challenges, emotional well-being, and any pre-existing beliefs or biases that might affect the learning experience. By conducting a comprehensive TNA, trainers can customize the syllabus and delivery to suit the individual needs of each learner, ensuring that the learning objectives are met in the most effective way possible.
TNA can be carried out through:
Pre-course interviews with learners.
Analyzing responses during the application process.
Understanding these variables allows trainers to adapt their methods, creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment.
3. Stage three – Delivery
The third stage is the training cycle is delivery stage where your planning and understanding of learner needs come into play. During this phase, the trainer must cater to the different learning styles identified in the previous stages. Every learner has unique preferences for how they process information, which is why using a range of teaching methods is key to ensuring everyone benefits from the training.
For example, the VARK model identifies four types of learners:
Visual: Learners who prefer to see and use images.
Aural: Learners who learn best through listening.
Read/Write: Learners who prefer reading and writing.
Kinaesthetic: Learners who prefer hands-on experiences.
To accommodate these diverse learning styles, trainers should provide a variety of learning materials, activities, and assessments.
Additionally, trainers should create a positive and safe learning atmosphere where learners feel supported and encouraged. A clear overview of the lesson objectives helps learners understand what to expect and stay engaged throughout the session.
4. Stage four – Assessment
Assessment is a critical element of the training cycle, ensuring that learning objectives have been met. Assessments can be classified into two types: formative and summative.
Formative Assessment
Formative assessments are typically informal and conducted during the learning process. They help gauge learners' understanding and provide immediate feedback for improvement.
Example: You can create an informal quiz based on a popular documentary to assess learners’ knowledge after each theory session. Another option is having learners develop questions about the content and quiz each other or present to demonstrate their understanding.
Summative Assessment
Summative assessments take place at the end of a learning module or course, providing evidence of achievement after a period of instruction. These assessments are essential for accredited courses and are often required by awarding bodies.
Example: Assignments, workplace observations, and exams provided by the awarding organization are common forms of summative assessment, especially for learners pursuing formal qualifications.
Example:
Assignments and workplace observation are provided by the awarding organization particularly if the learner will earn a qualification.
5. Stage five – Evaluation
The final stage of the training cycle is evaluation, where the effectiveness of the course is assessed. Evaluation can be conducted verbally, through feedback forms, or through activities designed to gather input from learners.
The purpose of the evaluation is to:
Identify areas for improvement in the course.
Ensure the course content, delivery methods, and assessments remain up-to-date and relevant.
Measure learner satisfaction and success.
Continuous evaluation allows trainers to refine their courses, integrate the latest techniques, and keep content aligned with learners' evolving needs.
If you want to explore how our Teacher Training Program can enhance your training cycle skills, dive deeper into our offerings and discover how they can benefit your teaching practice.