Before training execution, training methods should be chosen wisely. To choose a training method, first I will consider the availability of resources; that is if the organization has enough resources to cater for the training. Secondly, I will consider the availability of trainees. After considering the two factors I ended up choosing technology-based training as the training method; this is because due to the employee’s busy schedules. Technology-based training method will help in training employees even in their busy schedules as well as save money which could have used or lost in carrying out traditional based training which requires trainees presence meaning that employees have to be away from their duties.
Traditional training methods are divided into three groups, that is, presentation methods, hands-on methods, and group building methods. Presentation method of training is an instructor-led training which includes face to face training. The main advantage of the presentation method is that it ensures full participation of the trainees as the trainees have to be available in order for the training to take place. Additionally, face to face interactions help in building training cohesiveness as well as providing an enjoyable learning experience. The main disadvantage of presentation is that lectures cannot be retained for a longer period of time; also trainees may pay less attention especially when a large group is being trained and this slows down the learning process. Another disadvantage of the presentation is that same lecture is delivered to all trainees without consideration of their level of skills set. This brings up confusion as some employees end up being trained for the same skills and knowledge they possess hence the training being of no help to them.
The hands-on training method is helpful when it comes to learning; this is because it requires all trainees to participate actively in the learning. Through actively participating employees are able to pay attention and this facilitates their learning. Another advantage of hands-on training method is that it enhances creativity; since trainees are given tasks to work on, their creativity level is increased and this facilitates learning. Additionally, hands-on training promotes teamwork, this is because the trainees are divided into small groups whereby they work together on a certain task or project; trough this employee learn to work together as well as learn to value and appreciate each other. One of the main disadvantages of hands-on training method especially the case studies is that conclusions cannot be based on a single case. Also, biases can occur during data collection and interpretation thus making the results fake. Hands-on training methods such as role-playing are time-consuming; a lot of time is used which could be used in doing other tasks. Also, trainees may not take role-playing serious thus affecting their learning; some employees may also feel uncomfortable which limits their participation hence learning.
Group building training methods plays a very significant role when it comes to learning. Though group training, trainees are able to share ideas and experiences and this enhances their learning capability. Also, through group building trainees gets to discern their strengths and weaknesses; this promotes learning capability as they work hard on their weaknesses leading to personal developments hence organizational development. Through group building, trainees are equipped with proper knowledge and skills and this helps them in decision making, conflict management as well as risk-taking. Despite group building being useful sometimes group building has its own demerits; for instance, when it comes to decision making, a lot of time is wasted before the members come to a certain decision because of a different view of each group member. Group building training also leads to unequal participation; this is due to the fact that some members may fail to participate and this makes learning difficult for such members. Lastly, group building training method is costly, this is because employees have to spend time away from general work activities and this leads to a standstill of some of the organizational activities thus costing an organization. When choosing training method organizations should ensure that they outweigh both the merits and demerits of the training method so as to ensure that proper decisions are made.