SDW Learning Philosophy

Training versus Learning

Traditionally, most training efforts focus on the transfer of information from “trainer” to “trainee”. As you may know, these efforts rarely produce any tangible results. Too many organizations waste their training dollars and employee time on sessions that provide no long-term benefits to the organization.

On the other hand, learning shifts the emphasis from the act of information transfer to a focus on the desired results (changes in trainees’ on-the-job behavior and/or the realization of desired organizational outcomes). This difference provides the ROI for dollars spent on training initiatives.

What is Learning?

Learning is more than simply remembering; it starts there, but has many levels beyond recall. While you may be able to recall a certain piece of information, without understanding, it is simply trivia. Understanding involves the ability to describe the information/concept behind it in your own words.

But, this still isn’t deep enough to effect change. Just because one understands something does not ensure one values it and will put it to use. The next level of learning is application, which is the ability to apply the concept learned to situations on the job.

This is where our expertise comes in-our sessions are designed not only for understanding, but also to ensure the ability to apply what was learned on the job. We accomplish this through the use of quality materials, thought-provoking examples, and experiential activities.

What Learning Methods Work Best?

As you can see from the following graphic, the method that is most typically used to deliver training (lecture) is also the least effective when it comes to ensuring that information retention and application takes place.

Here’s an example:

Assume you had never ridden a bicycle before...
Do you think you would be able to learn how simply by listening to someone tell you how to do it?
Would you be able to successfully ride the bike by reading a manual written by some bicycle manufacturer?
What about watching Lance Armstrong or someone else ride?

As you already know, the best way to learn to ride the bike is by actually getting on the bike and giving it a try. In the same way, all courses developed and delivered by SDW Learning have a significant component involving discussion and activities designed to help trainees give it a try and apply what they are learning.