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The Nonprofit FAQ > Management >

Volunteer Programs

How do we develop effective training for our volunteers?

Summary:

Learn about working with adult learners

Answer:

Dr. William Stull said in his course on Adult Learners:
SPECIFIC SUGGESTIONS FOR TEACHING ADULTS

  • Set a comfortable tone the first class period.
  • Use small group instruction.
  • Build links between new information and knowledge that learners already
    possess.
  • Encourage active participation.
  • Provide immediate and positive feedback and reinforcement.

Assumptions Underlying Andragogy


  • Learners need to know why they need to learn.
  • Learner's experience is of great value. Most information can come from
    the
    learner.
  • Learner has self-concept and is responsible for own decisions. Learner
    is
    independent.
  • Learner is self-directed (i.e. improvement, etc.)
  • Learner is motivated to devote energy to what he/she views as relevant
    to
    life situations.

    For a general introduction to the theory of adult learning, see http://agelesslearner.com/intros/andragogy.html

    Free Management Library adds some basics about adult learning, and how get the most from adult learning.

    See "Effective Employee Training and Development Requires Knowledge of Adult Learning" at http://www.mapnp.org/library/trng_dev/basics/adlt_lrn.htm.

    Supervisors and learners should consider some basic guidelines for getting the most out of adult learning. See:

    Original post of unknown date. Free Management Library info posted 1/19/00 -- CM. Item revised 2/14/05 -- PB






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