Question

Question 1

Describe the three categories of training methods which are On-the-job, Classroom, and Self-paced. Which one (or all) is most beneficial.

Question 2

By providing the most beneficial training method, describe above, prepare an HRD implementation plan that can be used to obtain maximum effectiveness of the HRD Design that you outlined. Connect aspects of your outline to appropriate methods for fulfillment.

Outline

1. Setting objectives

Setting objectives would primarily focus on areas of

• Adaptability
• Equity
• Employability.

a) Adaptability is nothing but training imparted on a constant basis that nurture employee professional skills who in turn play a pivotal role in development of Human Resources. This further leads to adaption of employees to frequent changes in the organization.

b) Equity is the equal recognition of individual or worker irrespective of caste, color, creed, religion and community which further creates a harmonious working environment.

c) Employability refers to the competency, skill and ability of a worker to further gain meaningful employment. Hence primary objective of the HRD would lie in improving employee skills and motivation.

2. Selecting the trainer or vendor

• How would you possibly choose a trainer that would cater to all your employees/workers training needs?
• Highly effective trainers must possess excellent interpersonal skills, competency, and motivational ability.
• Trainers must be able to impart their respective knowledge in a clear and transparent manner.

3. Developing a lesson plan

• Developing a Lesson Plan basically revolves around a course of action and list of objectives that could be used for the same are listed below.

a) Subject
b) Duration
c) Outcome
d) Audience to be targeted
e) Individual Preparation of Worker/Individual
f) Requirement of Various Training aids
g) Training Material
h) Assessment
i) Format
j) Timing
k) Critical Areas
l) Sequential Delivery
m) Assignment Briefing

4. Selecting program methods and techniques (including the appropriate use of technology)

• Various program methods and techniques as highlighted below could be used as selection criteria.

1. Case Study
2. Self-Study   
3. Web Oriented Programs
4. Classroom Programs
5. Seminars   
6. Simulations
7. Programs based on Virtual Reality
8. Workshops
1. Technology (Web, DVD/ROM/CD Material, Video Conferencing)
10. Library

5. Preparing materials

• Preparing materials would involve an arduous task as it would involve the following factors.

1. Financial Resources     
2. Availability of Material     
3. Time Constraints
4. Expertise Involved In Gathering & Assembling of Material      
5. Logistical Constraints     
6. Management Co-operation       
7. Expertise Required to deliver Material

6. Scheduling the program

• Scheduling of the program would include -

1. Time constraints due to normal working hours                               
2. Availability of Trainer & Workers     
3. Required resources for scheduling the respective Program       
4. Logistical aspects          
5. Scheduling of training personnel/workforce to be considered

Answer 1

Answer 1. Training methods:

(A) On the job trining: under this method the trainee gains knowledge through hands on experience by working on the job/project. Wherein, the trainee is moved from one job to another, so that he/she can learn from the live assignments.

In other words this method is also called as, internship or apprenticeship.

In this method the trainee (employee) gets c chance to learn in the actual work environment and practice the knowledge which they gained by studying theory or class room training. It is one of the most effective ways of training and helps to build a stronger base.

This method comes in very handy when it comes to vocational courses, as such learning involves practical knowledge and technical know how of performing a task. On the job training gives thrust to the trainees to deploy their knowledge to bring about the desirable output required for the job.

The disadvantage of this training method is that, the company might need to incur more cost as a trainee might not have the expertise to execute a job with utmost efficiency as they are at their learning stage. And a trainee may take more time to finish a job, at the same time the output may not be that accurate and could have have multiple instances of errors.

(B) Classroom Training: this method is the most common and popular of all times and every training starts with classroom training or knowledge sharing before the trainee is put out on the field. Under this method, the theoretical knowledge is imparted through lectures/presentations/picture display etc in a classroom set up.

This method is best when it comes to introducing a trainee to the new concepts and sharing the knowledge which has been stored out of previous experience and expertise. It brings about the ease and confidence to the trainee, when he hits the field for practice and practical knowledge. It is the foundation of any training and works best at the initial phase of the training process.

One of the major setback of this method of training is that where we can consider it best for imparting theoretical knowledge, it is not very effective when it comes to imparting practical knowledge. the trainee may be deprived of the technical knowledge and know how of the job until he or she get to practice and see for themselves, on how things actually work in a live work environment. For example, a person can not learn swimming just be classroom training, the person has to be in water paddling his hands and feet to be able to learn swimming.

(C) Self-paced Training: it is one of its kind training method, wherein the training takes the responsibility of learning and gaining knowledge as he/she goes by in the organisation. Under this method the organisation is expected to support their aspirant trainee/employee, by giving them the opportunity to interact with/shadow the other employees in the organisation who are already expert at their job. So that the employee who wishes to improve his/her skillset can learn from other top performers in the team and master the skills required to perform better.

The person being trained under this method needs to be proactive and should take all the responsibility and accountability of his/her actions towards the training. there are not prefixed guidelines on how and when and what you need to learn. the trainee works independently, making his/her own decisions and choices.

Some of the advantages can be listed as follows: not time bound, no specific scheduling required, can go for different learning styes.

And some of the disadvantages being : lack of proper routine ma hamper the learning pace, availability of the other person/employee from whom you want to learn from is crucial to take forward the training process, which makes the trainee to be dependant thus might lead to delay in achievement of set learning goals.

Most beneficial method of training:

In my opinion all the three methods are at their best at different stages of training process. That is a balanced combination of all the three methods will be the most beneficial form of training for any employee.

If we line them in the most beneficial order, it would be starting from classroom training, moving on to on the job training and then finally giving the employee the opportunity to build his/her knowledge base via self-paced training. A fine mix of all three methods will bring out a wholesome opportunity for the trainees to learn, observe, practice and experience various aspect of the job for which they are being prepared for.

Although, if we have to chose one out of the given three modes of training : the most effective and balanced part is on the job training. This method is bridge between classroom training and self-paced training, thus, includes elements of both. Therefore, i consider 'on the job training' to be the most effective and efficient of the given training methods.