Training on a Shoestring

1
Training on a Shoestring

• How to provide focused, inexpensive and effective
  training

2
Training on a Shoestring

• Assessment
• What training do they need?
• Types of Training
• What kind of training should we provide?
• Strategies
• Whats the best way to conduct training?
• Resources
• What training options are available?
• Evaluation
• Are they more effective as a result of training?

3
Training AssessmentQuestions that should be
asked

• Who needs training?
• What training do they need?
• What are the goals for the training?
• How do those training goals support the
  organizations mission?
• What resources does the organization have to
  provide training?

4
Training Types of Training

• Classroom
• In metropolitan areas many options available. In
  rural areas, not as much. Usually the most
  expensive option.
• Computer Based Training (CBT)
• Good for motivated, disciplined staff with good
  existing computer skills.
• Lots of free CBT courses available through
  discountech.org and other sources.
• Online Training (similar to CBT)
• One-on-One (over the shoulder)
• On the Job
• Can work well if combined with classroom and/or
  online training.
• Train the Trainer
• In large organizations (50 staff or more) can
  provide good savings and bring more knowledge
  in-house.

5
Training -- Strategies

• Keep it Focused
• Train staff on what they need and will use. Dont
  train everyone on everything.
• Time and Timing
• Make sure staff have time to attend training
  sessions.
• Provide TIMELY training. Dont train people on
  things they wont use for six months. Train them
  at most one week before they use it, or even
  better, just after theyve started using it.

6
Training -- Resources

• Techsoup Assessment Tool
• A questionnaire to help determine an
  organizations training needs.
• www.techsoup.org/worksheetpage.cfm?worksheetid43
• TrainingPoint.org
• Curriculums available for free online.
• Small catalog, but some good curriculums
  available.
• Verizon e-partners program
• Classroom training in your local area paid for by
  Verizon.
• foundation.verizon.com/cybergrants/plsql/elist.sta
  te
• PTP Free training resource list
• www.progressivetech.org/Resources/PDF/Training20-
  20Free20links.pdf
• Discountech.org
• Online Training (Skillsoft e-learning)

7
Training -- Evaluation

• Before/After Surveys
• Are staff less frustrated by technology than
  before the training?
• Are they using technology more often and more
  effectively than before the training?
• Evaluate Your Trainers
• How clearly did they present material?
• How well did they know their subject?
• How did they interact with their students?
• How do the staff feel about the training?
• Was it helpful?
• Do they feel more knowledgeable?
• Do they feel more effective?

8
Training Questions

• Questions?