Week 4 Journal Entry

This week we learned about designing training. The first discussion asked us to consider if we would customize and build training ourselves or outsource training development for new supervisors. It was interesting to read the perspectives of other classmates and their justification for the method they chose. Quite a few classmates mentioned that nobody knows the business like current employees, so training development would best be created in-house. Others contested that obtaining an outside perspective may open the door for additional learning opportunities and recommended outsourcing training development.

The second discussion asked us to identify an e-learning vendor that could assist with creating customized training. We reviewed an infographic from The Training Associates that outlined how to find and select vendor partners. There were some vendors listed in the discussion that I had never heard of. I chose SweetRush based on the company's client reviews, the company objectives when chosen as a vendor partner, and how they assess transfer of knowledge. Professor Marrapodi posed an intriguing question regarding selecting a vendor based on personal connections with the company. My rebuttal was that I would treat that company the same as any other when it comes to research, client reviews, delivery, and content when making my decision. Personal connections are an excellent way to learn about a company, however sometimes they can also complicate things. I was able to add a lot of new vendors to my PLN for future reference.

Our assignment this week tasked us with designing a learning plan using a mindmap to outline the goals, outcomes, and objectives of the training. Assessments were also linked to those same goals, outcomes, and objectives to ensure transfer of learning has taken place. This assignment directly correlates with what we learned last week; the importance of identifying the root cause of the problem. When creating the overall goal of a training, it is imperative that the appropriate root cause has been determined. The entire training could be a moot point if the focus is on the wrong problem. Once the goal has properly been outlined, outcomes are documented to align with the goal. Objectives are derived from those outcomes, and again, should align with the goal. Assessments are created to ensure the overall goal is met and the learner was able to achieve the desired outcome and objectives. I found this assignment complimented the one from last week. I can see the progression we have made through the course and how everything ties together.

My PLN is coming along nicely. I am beyond excited to have this resource and plan to continue adding to it as my career develops! There are new books that I want to read and blogs I have discovered that are going to enrich my thinking and shape my learning.

I am having a blast creating my final project! I have utilized new tools (Camtasia, Doodly, and iSpring) that I previously had no experience with. I cannot wait to share the finished product!

See you next week!