I am doing some research for a client on the different types of learning and training used by private organisations. I can find plenty of information on work based and classroom based learning pros and cons but little on the feelings and trends of residential training. Do people think it is too expensive or do they see real value in sending the staff away in order to be completely absorbed into the learning experience.
Any comments or expereinces would be welcome also any real research / surveys on the benefits etc.
Thanks
Rebecca
REBECCA JONES
3 Responses
It depends upon the desired outcomes
As a trainer who gets involved in delivering at the clients site and off site (both residential and non residential) I would have to say it depends on the desired outcomes of the event.
Certainly off site gives you greater opportunity to remove delegates from any distractions that may occur at the clients premises.
As far as the residential issue is concerned, my opinion is that it allows much greater interaction between the delegates (and the trainer, as appropriate) thus enabling them relax, lower any barriers that may exist and reflect upon their learning with one another and relate it to their experiences.
The ‘ice breaking’ effect that residential event have also benefits those situations where a high degree of interaction is required.
I’ll be interested to note other peoples opinions!
Kind regards,
Colin Hamilton
email: colin@bis-improve.co.uk
web: http://www.bis-improve.co.uk
Essential in most cases
I would agree with Colin’s comments on this.
I managed and delivered training for a multinational company in Europe and found the benefits from networking at all levels in the company could be enormous.
However, it depends on the attitude of the people on the course and the approach taken by the trainer.
I considered it my responsibility to add value to the high costs of residential training by encouraging people to network. After the training, I would try to follow up with some kind of email to everyone.
The hard part is trying to measure the benefits. You may need to think laterally from the Kirkpatrick model.
Regards
Steve
I agree with Colin…
Just returned from Shropshire running a stress management residential workshop. Totally appropriate setting for this subject. Additionally, organisational issues that are tricky are best addressed in away days.
Bill