The Training Doctor

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The Importance of Using Questions in Training

There are two types of questions we can use in training: Those that make people repeat back what we just taught them and those that make people think.  If you really want to get people to the point where they have learned, and not just memorized, you need to incorporate the latter type of question in to your training tool kit.

Example: Memorize: When do we file the G39 reports? Learn: Why is it important that we file the G39 reports?

Questions that help people to learn are always open ended questions: What if? When will? How is? Why would? These types of questions require learners to explain their thinking, their opinion and their perspective on a topic. They allow you, the trainer, to better understand if the person "got it" and to correct or provide additional information if necessary.

So the next time you allow for Q+A in your training, be sure to create questions that require the learner to do more than regurgitate what it is you just told them.