Whether you are training preschoolers in the classroom or executives in the board room, here are 15 premises you might want to keep in mind the next time you're designing training activities.

1. Everybody has the capacity to learn.

2. Everybody learns at his own pace.

3. The trainee learns only when he is ready and is motivated.

4. Training must, therefore, get the trainee ready and motivated by satisfying his needs.

5. Training must, therefore, begin at the trainee's level of comprehension.

6. Begin with the simple information and progress to the complex.

7. Use mutually familiar frames of reference.

8. Make the training meaningful by systematically organizing it.

9. Provide relevant and timely supporting materials in adequate quantities.

10. Watch for and avoid trainee boredom by using variety in your activities, materials, and speaking manner.

11. Provide trainees with feedback and reinforcement about their participation.

12. Provide ample time for repetition and practice.

13. Give trainees the opportunity to adapt the training to new and different situations.

14. Reassure the trainee and use his experiences.

15. Make the training practical by developing an agenda that's practical.

Follow these premises and you'll find that your activities will become increasingly successful.

Remember: When you maximize your potential, everyone wins. When you don't, we all lose.

Etienne A. Gibbs, MSW

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