A project's success or failure might be determined by the quality of the field staff
training,
particularly if you have a tight deadline to meet your objectives. These pointers are
essential
to get the most out of your training programmes.
When your team is fully aware of the big picture (the Why), including the tasks they
will be
expected to perform on the ground and how the data gathered will be used by the company
to
make
decisions, live device training (the How) will be most effective.
Spend some time learning about the customs and culture of the area. A brief greeting in
the
local tongue can go a long way to establishing rapport. You should also be aware of
significant
occasions, such as prayer times.
The setting for learning is crucial. Make sure to verify the projector, electricity,
internet,
etc. Ideally, place the chairs so that you can move around freely and that everyone can
see
you.
A tried-and-true procedure is to introduce the subject, demonstrate how it is done on
the
screen, and then allow the participant to do it independently. If your task is lengthy,
you
could choose to create a shorter version that concentrates on the main idea. (For
instance,
GPS
location recording.)
Prior to continuing, be sure to confirm learning. Finishing a project, having them sync,
and
then showing the class the data are effective ways to accomplish this. This serves to
confirm
that the data do, in fact, travel somewhere and accomplish something. Keep in mind that
knowledge transfer is only one half of the equation; confidence building is the other.
A decent rule of thumb is to avoid showing for longer than 10 minutes, either by walking
through
simulated jobs or presenting slides. It is best to divide issues into easily palatable
chunks.
To ensure that those who ran into difficulties are not left behind, it is a good idea to
take a
break after each one.
There will inevitably be students that are experienced or pick things up quickly. Spread
them
out to assist their friends who may be having trouble coming up with a win-win solution
to
prevent them from getting bored and getting ahead of the class.
It is crucial to control the classroom. Stay away from side conversations and
diversions.
Sensitive questions should be handled individually (especially if there are incentives
involved)
(ideally before the training).
While role acting is crucial, strive to boost student involvement as well. You can
accomplish
this by directly posing questions, dividing up into teams for field staff training
competitions,
or posing a scenario and having them instruct YOU on what to do as you proceed through
the
screens.
A wonderful time! The perfect quip at the proper time and an occasional amusing image
can go
a
long way toward maintaining the mood and emphasising important ideas.
