Example of a training mismatch

Learning Styles

A lively outgoing individual always keen to try new experiences, was sent on a course that involved listening to lectures, reading the accompanying notes in a manual, and watching videos.

• Learns best from short here-and-now tasks
• Tries anything once and is enthusiastic about new activities
• Throws herself into action based courses, games and exercises, especially anything competitive

A quieter, more cautious, individual, has a preference for sitting back and watching others, preferring to think before acting. He was sent on an outdoor leadership event. The course involved being selected at short notice to lead a team. Feedback on his performance was given by both instructors and fellow team members.

• Learns best from standing back and observing what's happening
• Prefers to collect and analyze data before coming to a conclusion
• Enjoys watching people in action

Could be described as a perfectionist, with a tendency to think things through in a logical step-by-step way, while questioning and probing basic assumptions behind something. She was asked to attend a sensitivity training programme. An integral part of this involved opening up to situations she was facing and talking through her feelings.

• Learns best when reviewing content in terms of a system, model or theory
• Tends to be detached and analytical
• Puts great stock on rationality and logic

Is practical and is always looking for new techniques or ideas to try out in the job. He was sent on training where individuals were not encouraged to make links between the content and their own jobs. Consequently he described it as too 'ivory tower' and of little practical value.

• Learns when there is an obvious link between the subject matter and a problem or opportunity on the job
• Searches for new ideas and the chance to apply them to a relevant situation
• Likes to get on with things, rather than having long, open-ended discussions