There are many different ways to train. In fact, entire books have been written about how training is delivered. How can a manager in charge of training his employees choose the appropriate method? This article defines some of the most common training methods and examines the pros and cons of each. The method by which training is delivered often varies based on the needs of the company, the trainee and the activity performed. The method should fit the audience, content, business environment and learning objective. Ideally, the chosen method will motivate employees to learn, help employees prepare for learning, allow trainees to apply and practice what they have been taught, help trainees retain and transfer what they have learned, and integrate performance with other skills and knowledge. . Other factors that influence the choice of a training method include: - Age, gender or education level of the trainees - Learning styles of the trainees - Number of trainees - Budget - Trainer skills and training style Common group training methods include: Lecture A lecture is the method that students often most commonly associate with college and secondary education. However, it is also considered one of the least effective methods to use for adult students. In this method, one person (the trainer) speaks for himself. He or she may use handouts, visual aids, questions/answers, or posters to support the lecture. Communication is primarily one-way: from instructor to student. Pros: Less time is needed for trainer preparation than other methods. It provides a lot of information quickly when it is less important for trainees to retain a lot of details. Cons: Does not actively involve trainees in the training process. Trainees forget a lot of information if it is only presented orally. Demonstration Demonstration is very effective for basic skills training. The trainer shows the trainees how to do something. The trainer can offer trainees the opportunity to perform the demonstrated task. Pros: This method emphasizes trainee involvement. It involves different senses: seeing, hearing, feeling, touching. Cons: Requires a great deal of preparation and trainer planning. It is also necessary that there is adequate space for carrying out the training. If the trainer is not expert in the task being taught, the trainee may learn bad work habits. Seminar Seminars often combine different group methods: lectures, discussions, conferences, demonstrations.