When deciding which training method to use, several factors facilitate that decision. This course provides an overview of all the instructional methods, as well as reminders on when to use each method and its relative advantages and disadvantages. Use lecture when the learning goal is informational. Lectures allow the presentation of a breadth of material and can accommodate many trainees. Lectures result in passive trainees and there is a concern with focus and motivation.

Use discussions to encourage participation and problem solving, when you want to engage trainees. Discussions can result in unequal participation and trainees may get sidetracked on other issues. Cases focus on problem identification and diagnosis. Cases draw on the knowledge and experience of the trainees, but trainees may also get sidetracked with other issues. Use role plays when you want to develop interpersonal skills. Role play provides and opportunity for practice and feedback. But, trainees may not take role play seriously, and they need enough information for it to be helpful.

Use an in-basket exercise to focus on communication style and problem resolution. With in-baskets, you can cover several subjects, but because there is no two-way interaction, the learning will depend on good debrief. Use games to engage trainees, for fun, or for demonstrating the impact of a business decision. Depending on the game, the cost or ratio of time spent to knowledge gained may be a disadvantage.

Use simulations when trainees need to learn how to handle complex or high-risk situations. They provide real-life experiences without risk, but the cost of development and use may be prohibitive. Of course, the instructional methods presented here do not constitute all the options available for trainers to use. For example, on-the-job training and e-learning are other options that may be effective. Choosing the right method matters for great training.