Hi DisneyTraininggrl:

I have used this methodology with great success. Although it does have some limitations and you really have to know your target audience.

I was tasked with training a group of plant operators on how to operate a new piece of atmospheric testing equipment. This group is well seasoned and has a high degree of technical knowledge. In advance I had already completed a job analysis and have a list of tasks to be trained on.

After the usual introductory materials (especially the WIIFM). I facilitated the class in a brainstorming session of what do they need to know in order to operate this equipment. We then separated their ideas into three categories (Functions and limitations, normal operation, and off-normal operations). I added to the lists (with their concurrence) any of the tasks not include in my analysis.

I then broke the class up into three groups, provided them with copies of the users manual, and a unit of the equipment with an assignment to develop a short presentation on one of the three areas to be given to the rest of the larger group. Then just got out of their way.

In this case the audience already knew what kinds of information they needed to know from previous operating experiences. All I needed to do provide the information to fill in the gaps, and provide the resources they needed. And, talk about commitment and ownership. “One of the highest arts in training is creating the conditions and providing the tools that will enable the learner to become aware of the training needs and therefore translate them into learning needs.” Malcolm S. Knowles.

Caution: I would not try this with a novice audience.

Cj