Article Review 3

Barkley, Steve, Bianco, Terri, Learning experts examine shortfalls in on-site and on-line training , Supervision 62 no1 Ja 2001

Hyperlink: http://libproxy.library.wmich.edu:2082/images/WSPL/wsppdf1/HTML/00486/Z34EE/8SB.HTM

Summary

This article discusses andragogy- adult education concept and theory assisting adults to learn. Training efficiency is addressed noting that corporations are spending billions of dollars on training expecting specific results with obtainable goals and outcomes. The article also addresses types of learning and training:

· Learning-centered training- customizing the training experience to the learning style and working styles of the adults being trained. Participants use multiple formats to create those “memory hooks” which provide relevance and meaning to the material being learned.

· Traditional training-a face to face training session- trainers teach what they want and not what the learner needs. Role-playing and small group participation is used in traditional training, with the trainer available when needed. Participant have more ownership of learning

· “Radical” Experiment- management informs employees of outcomes expected, provide resources needed and provide explanation of companies needs then let the group of employees figure out how to complete the task. Once completed the process would be discussed. The employees determine the success or failure of the project.

· On-line training- readily available, cost less, learners can determine when and were they learn, is individualized. Online training in this article refers more to computer based training, noting that active hands-on, interactive, and relationship environments do not exist in most online environments.

Implications

The authors imply that learners need material presented live, needs to be relevant and brain-based and do not feel this is effectively done in an online environment. For successful learning (online or face to face) using effective tools and having the content meaningful to the learner are necessary.

Reaction

I agreed with the article overall, especially regarding a learner must have ownership and/or a reason to learn. I disagreed with some of the points regarding online learning and assume that the authors were referring more to computer-based training and not interactive online courses that instructor and peers communicate in. The authors also point out there are different methods of training and different methods of learning. To be effective the learner needs: “choice, feedback, an absence of threat and… time to reflect”.