The North Star of Effective Training

I am often asked how to create effective training. There are lots of noisy trends in learning and development that only create distractions. They might seem like viable approaches and methods. However, many of these trends are not rooted in proven science. So then, what is the key to effective training?

One word: congruency.

Great, how do we do that?

Apply Bloom's taxonomy as your north star. Start by formulating your learning objectives using Bloom's taxonomy. As content and applicable activities are considered to be part of the learning experience, put them against your learning objectives. If they align with the learning objectives, keep them! If they are somewhat applicable, applicable adjacent, or not at all related, remove them! Even if it is fun, eliminate it from the course content.

Learning objectives do more than check a box. They serve as the framework for developing learner-centric experiences at the beginning of the course design. Then, they serve as an anchor to keep the course content and applicable activities congruent.

But wait, there's more!!!

Learning objectives also serve as the end result: measurement. If the learning objective is "the learner will analyze sales trends," the means of assessment is observing the learner analyzing sales trends.By leveraging the learning objectives for course design and course evaluation, the course will be congruent. Participants will appreciate how well organized the course is when everything is congruent without even realizing it. The dissatisfaction for participants comes when the objectives are not clear, and the course is chaotic.

Congruency lends itself to a seamless experience for learners and facilitators alike.

Bloom's taxonomy for the win!