Training - Training small groups - The Training Environment

For learning to take place effectively you need to create a comfortable learning environment. You need to plan and arrange the environment and resources you will need for your training session. The days of plonking a few tables and chairs around a white-board are over!

Whether you are training on the job or in a training room there are a number of things you should consider before you jump in and start training.

* How many participants will you be training? Obvious, but I have known trainers who had no idea of how many learners they would need to accommodate.

* Is the size of the location adequate?* Is the location available! Again pretty obvious - but you would be surprised!

* How will tables and chairs be arranged?

* Does the area have adequate lighting?* Is the area quiet enough?* Is the temperature comfortable? Is there adequate ventilation?

* Is the location accessible?

* Do you know where all the facilities are - for example, the toilets! (I came across a very funny story on a blog regarding training and toilets, and I will be seeking the authors permission to quote it)

* Does the location have enough power points? Do you know where they are?

* Are training aids available?

* Are there any Occupational Health & Safety requirements you need to consider?

Tomorrow: Identifying Training Needs

Mike Hitchen
Mike Hitchen Consulting