My new training director creates and is married to elaborate PowerPoint presentations for every training. (I can't even imagine how many hours he spends on creating them.) I know enough to know it's just too much/not necessary/not the best tool.
I would love any data, information or general ammunition to deal with this.
Thank you for your input!

First thing that comes to mind is, How is this a problem for you personally? i.e., why does it matter to you? Even though there are better ways, I see no compelling reason why he can't use PowerPoint presentations as much as he wants. If you have a better way in mind, probably the best thing is to show him by your example. Otherwise, I think you're asking for trouble.

I would imagine it would be an issue for Civet because if the training director relies on this old standby, he'll probably expect everyone else to do so. Also, reliance on elaborate, overdone PowerPoint slides *usually* tells me two key things:

1) There's way too much emphasis on what the instructor is saying and doing, rather than on what the participants are saying and doing

2) What is supposed to be visual *support* has turned into what is driving the class

If one doesn't see a problem with this, I'm not going to be the one to start reiterating what is already present in more than enough studies, texts and other references regarding what makes for a good learning experience.

quote:

what is already present in more than enough studies, texts and other references regarding what makes for a good learning experience.

Thanks for your response. I'd love to know the specifics of or resources for that information.

Civet - was just about to add -- you should be able to easily find a plethora of information about multiple intelligences, learning styles, accelerated learning, adult learners, good instructional design, etc. within the pages of any good book on those subjects. I've recommended the following many times:

The Accelerated Learning Handbook (Meier)
How to Give it So They Get It (Bowman)

There are more, in addition to tons of articles in journals and training magazines. One need simply employ one's research skills.