8 Responses

1. Learner Centred Training
   OK. First we stop calling it “training”, but instead focus on “learning”. Then we get into the theory of Constructivism, which explains how to help people to learn. One good starting point on the Web is :

   http://curriculum.calstatela.edu/faculty/psparks/theorists/501const.htm

2. “Adults Learning” OU book
   There is a small paperback published by the Open University called “Adults Learning”, by Jenny Roberts (Jennie?) which talks about the difference at length, as well as examples of interventions of both trainer and student led development activities. Although it is based on experience in education, it is still relevant to the workplace (esp first few chapters), but very heavily biased towards complete learner/student-led approaches.

3. the words are the biggest clue.
   Pat I’m not sure if you’re researching the subject or simply wanting to understand the difference. As this is such an important aspect of modern training why not E-Mail me with the background to your question and I’ll write you something from a personal point of view.
   PS the previous message refers to Jenny Roger’s book – not Jenny Roberts.

   Rick

   Marlings1@hotmail.com

4. Comparison between centres of learning
   Pat- your problem is one I frequently meet when discussing learning with my trainee teachers. Trainer (or teacher) centred learning can mean that the learners themselves are passive or inactive, and learner-centred vice versa, obviously.

   Can I also recommend some reading:
   ‘Teaching Today’ by Geoff Petty and
   ‘Teaching, Training and Learning’ by Reece and Walker. These are essential for anyone reading about learning and how it takes place.

5. Constructivism has to be the way
   I agree with Robin think less about ‘training’ and more about learning. learner centred training is an oxymoron.Learner centred learning is possible adds more value and has a higher motivational and retention effect for learners, which has to be good hasn’t it. Constructivism is the place to start and in true constructivist style it is best to find out for yourself. Here’s a link to get you started. http://gamma.is.tcu.edu/%7Ecpevoto/treatise/.

   If you would like to discuss further e-mail andy.waterworth@academee.com

6. Learner Centred Training
   A further thought: is it possible that our favourite web site might be called LearningZONE?

7. Focus on Learner Outcomes
   I like to consider this problem in terms of learning outcomes. If your learning outcomes are written correctly and you focus on them, learner focus should follow. Alternatively, it you focus on presenter outcomes, that’s where the focus will be.

   What’s the difference? Terminology. Examples:

   1. Learner Focus: By the end of this session you will be able to design a metal box suitable for holding a theodolite

   2. Presenter Focus: By the end of this session I will have shown you how to design a metal box.

   Does this make sense? If not, email me and I’ll explain further.

8. plumber
   i have had plumbing tools in my hands sinnce the age of 14 having said that i deed an apprenchip in which i not wre given the proper pluming certificate,due to the fact that the gorvernment at the time din!t had any vacancies,so i started unemployed for a few years,untill it has come cross my mind that i need to get the highest ever certificate/degree in pluming,please this is genuine,i am 35 male ,married with 2 kids,i have a diffrent job at present but whho knows.and i don1T! want to miss anopportunity.regards