How to Run a Training Session

Key Concepts

Teach one, Show one, Do one, Give Feedback; Synchronous training; Skill-based training; Active learning; Experiential learning; Feedback loops; Training design; Knowledge transfer; Skill acquisition.

Teach One: Foundational Knowledge

The first step in the four-part training framework is "Teach one." This involves directly teaching the content, focusing on one skill at a time. It's about providing learners with the necessary key concepts, important information, theory, and research. This phase establishes a foundational vocabulary, ensuring everyone is on the same page. Typically, this is delivered through slides, flip charts, or whiteboards.

• Example: In a choking first aid workshop, this step would involve teaching the three steps to follow, explaining the order, and the basics of each step.

Show One: Demonstration and Modeling

The second step is "Show one," where the trainer demonstrates how to perform the skill being taught. This step is crucial for illustrating the skill in action.

• Methods: Live demonstrations, videos, illustrative examples, specific stories, case studies, before-and-after photos.
• Example: In the choking first aid example, the trainer would demonstrate the technique on a person or dummy, providing tips and showing how to fix common issues from multiple angles. In mental health therapy training, videos of therapists working with clients or role-play scenarios are used.

Do One: Active Practice and Application

The third step, "Do one," involves participants actively practicing the skill. This is a critical phase often missing or minimized in training sessions. Participants should practice one skill at a time for optimal learning.

• Methods: Pairs, groups, Zoom breakout rooms, worksheets, role-plays, case study scenarios, tabletop exercises, straightforward practice and repetition.
• Example: In the choking first aid example, participants would practice the technique on a dummy. In mental health therapy training, students would pair up and practice therapy techniques like asking probing questions.
• Emphasis: The activity should be as realistic as possible, simulating real-world application.

Give Feedback: Reinforcement and Improvement

The fourth and final step is "Give feedback." This step brings the entire training session together by providing participants with specific feedback on their performance of the skill.

• Process:
  • For large groups, select volunteers to demonstrate the skill.
  • Provide at least two or three pieces of positive feedback.
  • Offer one small tip for improvement.
  • Allow the volunteer to practice again, incorporating the tip.
  • For smaller groups, provide individual feedback to each participant.
• Purpose: Assess learning, reinforce correct techniques, and identify areas for improvement.
• Distinction: This is not a final debrief or takeaway session but specific feedback on the skill being learned.

Time Allocation and Training Effectiveness

The most effective training sessions allocate the majority of time to the "Do one" and "Give feedback" steps. This allows participants ample time to practice and receive personalized guidance, ensuring they can confidently apply the learned skills. Lecturing alone is not effective training.

Conclusion

The four-part framework – Teach one, Show one, Do one, Give feedback – is a proven method for effective synchronous training. By incorporating all four steps, trainers can create engaging and impactful learning experiences that lead to skill acquisition and improved performance. The key is to prioritize active practice and feedback to ensure participants leave the training session with the ability to confidently apply what they have learned.