What Makes a Good Trainer?  

This second blog assumes that you have some training knowledge and asks the question what makes a good trainer? Below we provide some answers:

Assessing Learning

Assessment can be formal or informal. Is the course material at the right level?  Were there sufficient recaps? Ask the learners for feedback on how they think the course went. Recap at the end the course using a quiz or test to assess understanding. Ask learners for suggestions for improvements.

Evaluating Learning

Without evaluation trainers cannot improve. Evaluation can come from a written document from each learner at the end of the course. Alternatively another person may observe you facilitating the course and give feedback. A third possibility is that the Client who arranged the course may give verbal or written feedback. As a trainer provider it is very important to evaluate the course. What was not good? What went well?

Roles of a Trainer

Planning is a big part of a trainer’s role.  From the initial contact the course provider must plan and attend meetings and write a lesson plan. Allocate time for writing and photocopying materials. Simple matters like planning their route to the training venue need attention. Also planning for the unexpected such as staff arriving late and equipment failure.

Trainer acts as a Role Model

A good trainer must be a role model smart in appearance, reliable and able to greet participants when they arrive in a friendly approachable manner.

Assessor

As an assessor the trainer takes on the role of guiding and supporting learners through the learning process, reviewing their progress throughout. This may include discussing assessment plans with learners, liaising with other members of staff who have some involvement in the assessment process and completing and managing records.

Motivator

As a motivator a trainer needs to have the ability to include all learners in what is being taught. A starting point is to promote a professional relationship with the learners that leads them trusting the trainer, which in turn aids learning; along with encouraging staff and giving positive feedback.

Responsibilities of a Trainer

Attend meetings to discuss a client’s needs, discuss suitable courses, how many people are needed to be taught and the time frame needed to commence and complete the courses. Meetings can take place between suppliers, ensuring equipment is at the right place and the right time.

The trainer should ensure that health and safety is adhered to during the course. Sufficient breaks scheduled and toilet facilities available.

It is very important to meet deadlines. This could be getting pre-reading material to learners before the course or writing Trainer Reports and emailing them to the Client or writing and sending certificates on completion of the course.

As a trainer it is very important to be approachable. This should be evident as soon as the learner walks into the room by smiling and introducing yourself and asking their name. Throughout the course the trainer should be open to questions, introduce humour into their teaching and make sure learners always feel comfortable and supported.

Look out for Part 3 coming soon.

What Makes a Good Teacher/Trainer? –Inclusive Teaching and Learning