Adult learning has a much greater chance of success when the trainer or teacher is competent. An instructor that strives for excellence will demonstrate each of the following qualities of a good trainer.
Exudes Patience
A good trainer needs to have incredible patience. Often learners are frustrated when introduced to new concepts and they need the trainer or teacher to re-frame the information in a way that will encourage them to see beyond a block in learning.
Explains Concepts Simply
Often in an attempt to convey a new concept, poor trainers tend to over complicate with providing a high level of detail. A good trainer knows how to pull out the key concepts and points and to gradually build in the details over time once the basic concepts are understood. Often it takes up to three different introductions or exposures to a concept before learners retain the information. For example, present the key concepts in a short lecture, then discuss them within case studies and finally create an assignment around the key concepts.
Facilitates Active Learning
Lectures provide information to the masses but for true learning to occur, a good trainer facilitates active learning by finding ways for the learner to uncover the key concepts through discovery and practice. Hands-on learning through discussions, quizzes, games, case studies, simulations, brainstorming etc. will engage the learner in the topic and facilitate their learning.
Uses Creative Approaches
Variety is the spice of life and it also spices up learning. A good teacher knows when to change gears and offer an activity or exercise that will shake up preconceived notions of learners and expand their perceptions. Challenge learners by offering the unexpected and mixing up the delivery to appeal to the various learning styles.
Demonstrates Acceptance of Different Views
A good teacher remains neutral and encourages debates that explore the pros and cons of concepts. Racism, hate and ignorance should never exist in a classroom. A good trainer will demonstrate zero tolerance for unethical behaviors while, at the same time, encourage different viewpoints that help learners understand cultural diversity.
Sees the Big Picture and Breaks it Down
Good trainers remember to link individual concepts with a bigger picture so that the learner understands the role each piece plays. When learners do not understand the bigger picture, they often feel confused as the learning feels disjointed.
Motivates Learning
Part cheerleader, part coach; a good trainer knows how to motivate learning through encouragement and support. Good teachers insist on the learner doing the work to uncover answers to problems while guiding them gently with encouraging words and hints to help steer them along in their discovery. Poor instructors give away answers and do the work for the learner. Good instructors encourage curiosity.
Creates a Welcome, Safe Environment
Adult learners need to feel that their classroom (be it virtual or not) is a safe place to express their concerns and ask questions. Learners who feel threatened by a closed communicative environment will not learn and will usually drop out.
Comes Prepared
An organized instructor will gain instant respect from learners. Showing up on time as well as demonstrating that lessons are planned, prepared and relevant to the audience will impress learners.
If an instructor can demonstrate a high level of competence, then learners will remain engaged. Learning happens in an environment that fosters patience, simplified concepts, active learning, creativity, diversity of views, perspective, motivation, safety and organization.
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