This Tip discusses the second decisions that trainers make to increase the probability of learning, learner behavior decisions.
Learner Behavior Decisions
How do we decide what input method will be successful so that the learner output will validate that learning has occurred?
In other words, how do we decide HOW the learner will learn and will demonstrate that learning?
How do we select the input learning activities will enable the learner to acquire the level of learning that is necessary? Here, we need to keep in mind three different considerations.
Three Considerations
A Task Analysis
The first is a task analysis. It breaks the learning into smaller essential components. Then it places these components in a logical sequence. The task analysis will let us know what needs to be taught first, second, third, etc.
The Level of Learning
The second is a determination of the level of learning necessary for each separate essential task analysis component. The level of learning will indicate which learning activities are more appropriate. For example, if we want to ensure knowledge, then:
- reference materials,
- lecture,
- a video,
- a panel discussion, or
- small group self discovery
may be appropriate.
The Learning Activities
The third is the selection of learning activities that will meet the needs of different learning preferences. There are many learning style models. At the very least we should ensure that there is a visual, an auditory, and a kinesthetic component to the learning activities that we select.
The second part of that equation is also not difficult. Our guiding principle is that the learner should have an opportunity to do in the classroom whatever we expect the learner to do once s/he leaves the classroom.
The ultimate level of learning that is necessary will again automatically indicate what learning activities are appropriate., whether it be:
- knowledge,
- comprehension,
- application,
- analysis,
- evaluation,
- or creation).
Examples
Let us follow through on our examples from last week.
If the level of learning is independent application of a specific set of skills, then we will need some highly experiential learning activity. It could be hands on if it is a technical skill and possibly role play if it is an interpersonal skill (such as interviewing or negotiating). We need to select activities will enable the learner to demonstrate his or her learning.
If the level of learning is comprehension of the changes in a procedure, then a:
- questionnaire,
- game,
- group discussion, or
- case study
might be appropriate. Again, any activity is appropriate that will allow the learner to prove his or her comprehension.
