SEMINAR DEVELOPMENT GUIDEBOOK Instructor Resources
SEMINAR
DEVELOPMENT
GUIDEBOOK
Instructor Resources
Table of Contents
Adult Learning ............................................................................................................................................... 1
Designing the Course ..................................................................................................................................... 8
Creating a Course Overview ........................................................................................................................ 14
Writing Learning Objectives ....................................................................................................................... 17
Creating Course Content ............................................................................................................................ 21
Delivering the Course .................................................................................................................................. 25
Evaluating the Course ................................................................................................................................. 31
Web Resources/ Bibliography .................................................................................................................... 36
1
Module: Adult Learning
Introduction:
Introduction:
Part of being an effective instructor involves understanding how adults learn best. This section of
Adult Learning explores ways to:
Appeal to
Interest
Motivate your participants
Information:
Considerable research has been done on adult learning (pioneered by Malcolm Knowles)
From this research, four key principles emerge
The four key principles are:
Readiness
Experience
Autonomy
Application
The information in this module describes the principles and actions you can take in the
classroom to apply these principles.
Action:
Plan your course around adult learning principles and incorporate recommended actions.
Take a close look at what research indicates adults like and dislike in classroom settings.
Use learner retention strategies to maximize course effectiveness
Facts About Adult Learners:
Average limited attention span for classroom- based instruction: 20-40 minutes
During this period, the average adult learner will absorb roughly 1/3 of what is said with a
maximum of seven concepts
Research on adult learning indicates that participants learn better, and retain information better
when they:
Are actively involved in the class
Participate in a variety of activities
Are not subject to cognitive or information overload
2
Module: Adult Learning
Participant Energy Level Chart
Last 30 to 60 minutes before lunch
is difficult:
Low blood sugar
Hunger pangs
Anticipating lunch
End of the day is difficult:
Mental fatigue
Challenging day
Possible time zone change
Some possible actions to counter
dips in hourly energy:
Change activity
Take a short break
Do an energizer activity
The period right after lunch can be high energy if attendees participate
in interactive activities – otherwise energy may be low.
* General shape is the same whether you start at 8:00, 8:30, or 9:00 am.
While there are differences from person to person, there are average curves.
3
Module: Adult Learning
Adult Learning Principles – Action Recommendations
Readiness Experience Autonomy Application
Adults are ready & willing to learn what you have to offer… Appeal to “readiness.”
Adults like to relate content to their own experiences.
Adults like to participate actively in learning. They like to make their own decisions about information.
Adults want to see immediate application of learning to their jobs. They want to “do” something now.
Action Action Action Action Focus on
participant needs – answer the question “what’s in it for me?”
Solving a problem?
Avoiding a problem?
Providing opportunities for personal or professional growth?
Acknowledge experience learners possess
Don’t aim too high or too low with information
Use familiar vocabulary
Draw from participant experiences
Demonstrate sympathy for past problems
Create lots of opportunities for exercises, simulations, games, and hands-on learning
Build in opportunities for participant suggestions, solutions
Reinforce innovate ideas
Point out how to apply concepts on the job
Provide opportunities to practice
Ensure learning can transfer to the job
Create jobs aids or handouts that refresh learning later
4
Module: Adult Learning
Adult Learning Styles
Introduction:
Any given audience is comprised of participants who learn in different ways.
Appealing to participant perceptual learning styles can ensure your message reaches each
learner.
While you may not have the luxury of assessing learning styles for each individual you can:
Ensure all learning styles are addresses
Enhance individual and group understanding by appealing to all styles
Information:
Participants are generally grouped by learning styles:
Visual
Auditory
Kinesthetic
While we have elements of all these styles in our learning behavior, one style is usually
dominant.
Please note that the visual style is the predominant in most groups. However, by not paying
attention to the other learning styles, you run the risk of “losing” 1/3 of the group.
The following pages describe major participant learning styles by preference and need
Action:
Incorporate what each participant learning style “needs” throughout the course.
5
Module: Adult Learning
Perceptual Learning Styles
Course Delivery Idea Checklist
Lecture (Traditional) Prepared oral delivery Guided note taking Assessments
Case Study, Game, Simulation
Partial description of case- have participants work to determine solution
A game that covers part of the topic Opportunities for role playing or simulations of real-life events
Demonstration Use of props or cutaways Video or multi- media viewing Internet connected demonstration Computer-based demonstration
- Calculations - Software
Direct Observation Field trips Observation assignments Modeling (watching instructor conduct exercise then imitating)
Peer- assisted Brainstorming Analysis Techniques Discussions Small group interactions
Participant - led Web and library exploration Online learning Independent study
Visual Auditory Kinesthetic
Learn by seeing 70% of most groups
Learn by listening 20% of most groups
Learn by doing 10% of most groups
Preference: See instructor See visuals
Preference: Listen to verbal
instructions Learn in sequence
Preference: Touch or manipulate
objects Movement like games,
simulations
Need: Visual reinforcement View spatial objects like
graphs or charts
Need: Clear explanations Talking through problems
or issues
Need: Multiple, short breaks Taking notes Hands- on activities
6
Module: Adult Learning
Learner Retention
Introduction:
It is important to develop instructional material that not only engages the learner, but is
designed to enhance learner retention.
Information:
Using learner retention strategies can help:
Speed up learning
Make it stick more powerfully and learning
Reduce time and energy for both teaching and learning
Cognitive strategies like those researched by West, Farmer and Wolf (1991) assist learners to
retain more of the learning and apply it in their workplaces.
The following pages provide information on some learner retention strategies geared to assist
your participants in retaining and applying information.
Action:
Use a variety of these strategies in planning your course
Make sure they are used liberally throughout all activities
7
Module: Adult Learning
Learning Retention Strategies
Using these strategies greatly assists in learner retention.
Clustering (also known as chunking)
Arranging information in groups for easier perception, understanding, retention and recall
Spatial Visual displays of information that lay out a large number of elements (e.g. charts, graphs, pie charts, etc.)
Advance Organizers Short introductory packages that set expectations or build a vision. Sets up the “big picture” of the course
Image Rich Comparisons
Analogies, metaphors, examples, case studies etc., that bridge what learners know with the new learning
Repetition Activities that assist learners to rehearse and practice content in organized ways
Memory Aids Groups of easy-to – remember sequences, or job-aids that learners can take back to the workplace
What SAE Adult Learners Dislike
Long lectures or other methods without breaks
Lack of variety of instruction methods Passive courses Too much theory Too much history
Formal, instructor- dominated courses No applications of learning to current job Uncomfortable surroundings (physical or
psychological) Overuse of personal “war” stories
What SAE Adult Learners Like
For Content Cutting edge information, new trends & future concepts Content matching the published description Handouts matching the instruction content (same as slides & in the same
order) Glossary of terms & acronyms
For Application Combinations of theory & practical (emphasis on the practical) Real world applications and examples Hands-on demonstration, materials (e.g., parts displays, test equipment)
In the Classroom Opportunities to ask questions Clear, concise answers to questions Encouragement to participate Even pace- not rushed Adequate time to cover all material
8
Module: Designing the Course
Contents:
Introduction
Consider the target audience
Course design outline and course development structure
Course content design map
Example worksheet
Example lesson development worksheet
Begin Process
Course Design Outline
Course Development
Structure
Course Design
Outline
Overview
Learning Objectives
Content
Evaluation
Delivery
9
Module: Designing the Course
Introduction
Introduction:
Course design is key to a successful teaching endeavor. Participants appreciate and learn better
when provided with a well-designed content and application-rich experience.
Information:
Using a model to develop and plan your course can help facilitate design and provide a
framework from which to develop additional courses. SAE provides a five-step model for your
use.
Action:
Consider your target audience, then structure your seminar using the elements in the five-step
model
Use the information provided and write out your learning objectives
Map out the course using the “Course Content Design Map” in this section
There are some additional tools for creating seminars/ courses in this module as well.
Please note that the model recommended by SAE is not content-centered, but learner-centered.
Focus on the needs of the learner by using clear learning objectives
Specify activities that will lead the learner to attain the objectives
Include an evaluation mechanism and feedback loop
Add your content
Please also note that instructors are expected to:
Develop attendee learning materials (SAE will reproduce learning manuals – handouts)
and deliver to the class
Recommend any text, software etc., associated with the course
Develop a course learning assessment
There are modules corresponding to each of the steps in the model. Please review all modules
prior to developing content.
*Please note: The terms seminar and course are used interchangeably throughout the
Guidebook
10
Module: Designing the Course
Consider the Target Audience*
Audience analysis is the first step and a mission critical aspect of designing courses
Assess the audience and develop your content to benefit your audience
o What is the audience make-up (level of experience, specific types of engineers, industries in
which they work, level of job, job title, etc.)?
o Are they knowledgeable about the topic?
o Why do they need this information?
o How will this information help them in their jobs/ lives?
o If given this information… what can or will they do with it?
Designing a course requires a strong outline or blueprint prior to developing content. SAE provides the
outline below to assist with course development. This model is illustrated in all modules relating to
course development.
This model also corresponds with the “Seminar Proposal Guidelines.”
Adult Learning Principles: All steps in the above model require adherence to adult learning principles. This
information can be found under Module: Adult learning.
Course Design Outline
Course Development
Structure
Overview
Learning Objectives
Content
Evaluation
Delivery
Brief overall course description
Expected learner outcomes
Content, blended with interactive activities and exercises
Site preparation and teaching
Course evaluation by (1) participant evaluation, (2) instructor self-evaluation and (3) learning assessment administration and review
11
Module: Designing the Course
Please note that instructors are expected to:
Develop attendee materials for learning manuals (SAE will reproduce)
Recommend any text, software etc. associated with the course
Develop the course learning assessment
Course Start
Agenda
Course Close
Course Summary
Administer Learning
Assessment
Administer Participant Evaluation
Provide Related
Resources
Lesson 1, 2…
Lesson Learning Objectives
Content
Interactive Activities
Summary
Title
“Housekeeping”
Course Learning Objectives
12
Module: Designing the Course
Example Worksheet*
Course Title: ____________________________________________________
Target Audience: _________________________________________________
Time Allotted: ___________________________________________________
*Can be used in a variety of ways, including working through one learning objective at a time
Course Overview:
Learning Objectives:
Content:
Interactive Activities:
Evaluation & Feedback:
13
Module: Designing the Course
Example Lesson Development Worksheet*
Topic: ______________________________________________________________
Audience Needs: _____________________________________________________
Total Time Allotted: ___________________________________________________
Objectives: __________________________________________________________
Topic Detail Resources Method Time
*Can be used for individual lessons within the seminar
14
Module: Creating a Course Overview
Contents:
Introduction
Create a course overview
Course overview example
Course Design Outline
Course Development
Structure
Course Design
Outline
Overview
Learning Objectives
Content
Evaluation
Delivery
15
Module: Creating a Course Overview
Introduction
Introduction:
The course overview is a brief summary (one or two short paragraphs) of the course and is used
as the introduction in SAE’s promotional brochures. It should immediately grab the reader’s
attention and entice someone to attend the seminar.
Information:
To Create a Course Overview:
Write a brief summary of your proposed course incorporating the following items:
Explain why someone should attend
Briefly tell them what they will learn
Identify common problems/issues that are currently high priority in the industry that
you will address
Identify cutting-edge knowledge or future trends related to your course
Identify software or textbooks that are used in the course
Action:
Create a course overview for your course (and also for your Seminar Proposal).
16
Module: Creating a Course Overview
Course Overview Example
Introduction to Brake Control Systems: ABS, TCS, and ESC
Once reserved for high-end luxury vehicles, electronic brake control systems are quickly
becoming standard equipment on even the most inexpensive cars and trucks. Today, nearly
every new vehicle benefits from the optimized braking, enhanced acceleration, or improved
stability that these systems provide. This comprehensive seminar introduces participants to the
system-level design considerations, vehicle interface requirements, and inevitable performance
compromises that must be addressed when implementing these technologies.
The seminar begins by defining the tire-road interface and analyzing fundamental vehicle
dynamics. Following an in-depth study of system electronics, hydraulic hardware, and sensor
requirements, the participants learn about the control strategies employed by anti-lock brakes
(ABS), dynamic rear proportioning (DRP), traction control (TCS), and electronic stability control
(ESC) with strong emphasis placed on vehicle dynamic response. The seminar concludes with a
study of unique applications, industry trends, and a look forward to advanced brake control
system integration. Over 500 pages of detailed course notes and illustrations are provided for
on-the-job reference.
17
Module: Writing Learning Objectives
Contents:
Introduction
Create learning objectives
o Sample learning objectives
Step-by-step model
Action verbs to assist in writing learning objectives
Course Design Outline
Course Development
Structure
Course Design
Outline
Overview
Learning Objectives
Content
Evaluation
Delivery
18
Module: Writing Learning Objectives
Introduction
Introduction:
A learning objective is a description of a performance you want learners to be able to exhibit
before you consider them competent (Mager).
It describes the result of the instruction, rather than the process of instruction. Learning
objectives are important because they provide:
A basis for content, method and materials selection
An evaluation method (e.g., met or did not meet objective)
A means of organizing attendee efforts to meet the objectives
Information:
It describes the result of the instruction, rather than the process of instruction. Learning
objectives are important because they provide:
A basis for content, method and materials selection
An evaluation method (e.g., met or did not meet objective)
A means of organizing attendee efforts to meet the objectives
Action:
Read this module on “Writing learning objectives” and craft learning objectives for your seminar.
To create learning objectives:
Write learning objectives by telling the learners what they will be able to do at course
conclusion…
See following pages for a step-by-step process to:
– write learning objectives
– use action verbs for writing objectives
See Module: Evaluating the course to link objectives to learning assessments
19
Module: Writing Learning Objectives
Sample learning objectives:
By attending this seminar, you will be able to:
Analyze brake system design parameters and their vehicle performance effects
Evaluate the compromises between stability steerability, and stopping distance
Specify fundamental ABS performance attributes
Tell participants what they will be able to do at course conclusion . . .
Step 1 Define what the successful participant is able to do as a result of taking your course. Use action verbs to develop learning objectives.
Step 2 State your learning objectives (examples): By attending this course you will be able to:
a) State the 4 steps of _______ b) Apply the principles of _____ c) Integrate ___ with ____ d) ____ ____ ____
Step 3 Make sure your objectives are verifiable, and then teach the stated objects
Step 4 Evaluate whether students are able to do a)- d) as a result of taking your course
Participant Participant Course
Is not able to: ___ Is able to: ___
20
Module: Writing Learning Objectives
Tell participants what they will be able to do at course conclusion . . .
Typical Action Verbs Used to Write Learning Objectives*
Knowledge cite, label, name, reproduce, define, list, quote, pronounce, identify, match, recite, state
Comprehension alter, discover, manage, relate, change, explain, rephrase, substitute, convert, give examples, represent, summarize, depict, give main idea, restate, translate, describe, illustrate, vary, interpret, paraphrase
Application apply, discover, manage, relate, classify, employ, predict, show, compute, evidence, prepare, solve, demonstrate, manifest, present, utilize, direct
Analysis ascertain, diagnose, distinguish, outline, analyze, diagram, divide, point out, associate, differentiate, reduce, conclude, discriminate, find, separate, designate, dissect, infer, determine
Synthesis combine, devise, originate, revise, compile, expand, plan, rewrite, compose, extend, pose, synthesize, conceive, generalize, propose, theorize, create, integrate, project, write, design, invent, rearrange, modify
Evaluation appraise, conclude, critique, judge, assess, contrast, deduce, weigh, compare, criticize, evaluate
* Adapted from Bloom’s Taxonomy of Educational Objectives
21
Module: Creating Course Content
Content:
Introduction
Step-by-step – create course content
Sample course content
Course delivery idea checklist (also in Module: Designing the course)
Step-by-step – create interactive course activities (also in Module: Designing the course)
Course Design Outline
Course Development
Structure
Course Design
Outline
Overview
Learning Objectives
Content
Evaluation
Delivery
22
Module: Creating Course Content
Introduction
Introduction:
While content is the substance of any course, knowledge of the target audience and type of
course delivery is pivotal in successful knowledge transfer and learner retention.
Information:
Course Content sections include:
Course content
Direct links to learning objectives
Traditional course delivery strategies
Interactive course activities
SAE requests a bulleted outline inclusive of:
Actual course content
Course interactive activities
Day designation (e.g., Day One, Day Two etc.)
Estimated length (in minutes or hours) included on course outline for each section
Action:
Use the step-by-step model for creating course content
Use the Course Delivery Idea Checklist to select delivery strategies
Use step-by-step model to include interactive course activities
23
Module: Creating Course Content
Create Course Content
Begin by following the step-by-step model for creating course content
Step 1 List the main topics and subtopics that must be taught to reach instructional goals.
Step 2 Make sure all topics link directly to the established learning objectives (what the participant will be able to “do” as a result of attending the course)
Step 3 Develop teaching notes or a detailed outline for each topic and sub-topic. This is “what” you will teach. Use:
a) Examples b) Case Studies c) Demonstrations
Develop discussion points Place reminders to ask if there are questions Highlight areas of emphasis
Step 4 Record times for each topic and subtopic (6.5 teaching hours/day). Build in time for discussion and questions as appropriate
24
Module: Creating Course Content
Sample Course Content
Sample Course Content (excerpt):
DAY ONE
Tire-Road Interface Characteristics (45 min.)
o Defining slip
o Longitudinal mu-slip relationship
o Longitudinal vs. lateral slip capacity
o The friction circle
Hydraulic Break System Overview (1.5 hrs.)
o What do braking systems do?
o How does each component contribute?
o What are the underlying fundamental relationships?
o How does this apply to brake control systems?
Stability, Steerability, Stopping Distance (45 min.)
o Define stability, steerability, stopping distance
o Illustrate with mu-slip curves
o Illustrate with friction circle
Interactive Course Activities:
Give participants things to do. Make these interesting and don’t bore them.
Step 1 Determine which activities may enhance learning in your class
Step 2 Collect work related experiences that can be used to design activities
Step 3 Design interactive activities: a) Provide a problem that requires a calculator or a computer to solve b) Use a flipchart and ask the class questions c) Divide the class into small groups for discussions or work on a
specific problem d) Provide an opportunity for sharing information and experiences e) Develop a question and answer activity or game f) Discuss a case study g) Create a simulation
Step 4 Tie all the activities to how they apply to the participants’ experience and work
25
Module: Delivering the Course
Content:
Introduction
On-site checklist
“Bookend” the course
Creating ice breakers and discussion starters
Watching for signs of information overload
Presentation delivery tips
Course Design Outline
Course Development
Structure
Course Design
Outline
Overview
Learning Objectives
Content
Evaluation
Delivery
26
Module: Delivering the Course
Introduction
Introduction:
The course presentation, or delivery is the final “performance” following all other preparation
and planning steps.
Excellent preparation and planning combined with sound delivery strategy selection and
logistical planning are only the precursors to the actual course delivery.
Information:
There are many excellent courses and resources on good presentation skills (see bibliography for
examples)
This module provides some of the most common tips on making good instructional
presentations. The most important aspects of the actual delivery are:
Excellent planning
Content and application rich learner-centered structure
A passion for the topic that is communicated to the audience
Action:
Read and follow the Presentation Tips for an outstanding final performance that is clear, accurate, and
animated.
Please not that SAE requires:
6.5 instruction hours
2, fifteen (15) minute breaks
One hour lunch break (total 8-hour day)
Please make sure participants return to class promptly following lunch and breaks.
27
Module: Delivering the Course
Check the room and develop policies for your course.
On-Site Checklist
Room Confirm room is set up as requested Check that Internet or electrical connections are working Set up or confirm parts or model cutaways are displayed Find level of lighting that works best
Equipment Ensure all audio-visual equipment is set, working, and ready to use
Load any special software; make sure it is ready to use
“Housekeeping” Know where the restrooms are Plan break and lunch times Announce cell phone policy Other _____
28
Module: Delivering the Course
Bookend the Course
Opening Course Material Closing
Create a strong opening Make a terrific first
impression Use icebreaker exercises Encourage questions Take care of
“housekeeping” matters
Review learning objectives for each lesson
Use discussion starters Teach course content Implement interactive
course activities and exercises
Summarize each lesson
Create a strong closing Recap the major points Administer learning
assessment Administer course
evaluations
Tell them what
you are going to
tell them
Tell them
Tell them
what you told
them
29
Module: Delivering the Course
Creating Ice-Breakers and Discussion Starters
Begin each class with an Icebreaker exercise, and initiate discussion starters throughout the
course. These exercises serve to help the group transition into the learning environment, or
think of something positive they learned. Here are some ideas:
Opening:
Have everyone provide his/ her:
Name
Company affiliation
Reason for being in the course
Course Material:
Ask participants to name some information they learned from the class that surprised
them, or
Ask participants to offer how they can apply some of the information learned
Closing:
Ask participants to share which part of the course was most beneficial for them, or was
most valuable for them
Ask participants to share one piece of information that they will apply in their work
environment
Administer and review the learning assessment with the participants
Watching for Signs of Information Overload:
Watch audience body language for signs of overload:
Actions to counter information overload or alter attention span:
Glazed looks Impatience Obvious inattentive body language Daydreaming Clock watching Asking for a break Not keeping pace with the
presentation
Stop and ask a question Start an exercise Use the flipchart or whiteboard Encourage a group discussion Take a break (even if you did not plan
it then)
Use the participant energy level chart in the Module: Adult learning to help plan the course delivery.
30
Module: Delivering the Course
Presentation Delivery Tips
Dress with business or business casual attire
o Business attire: suit and tie
o Business casual attire:
Dress slacks or khakis with collared shirt
No jeans, sweat suits, sneakers, or t-shirts
Maintain good audience eye contact
Use active verbs (analyze, calculate, differentiate, design, formulate, etc.)
Use positive body language to emphasize your points
Make good use of pauses to ensure the participants absorb your message
Practice and use voice intonation and pitch to emphasize main points
Emphasize your main points, comprehensively cover all concepts
Never just read the presentation or the PowerPoint slides
Stick within the allotted time
Practice and rehearse for smooth transitions and delivery
31
Module: Evaluating the Course
Content:
Introduction
IACET Guidelines
Creating and administering Learning Assessments
Course evaluation
Administering participant evaluations
Sample participant evaluation
Using participant evaluations
Taking the instructor self-evaluation
Course Design Outline
Course Development
Structure
Course Design
Outline
Overview
Learning Objectives
Content
Evaluation
Delivery
32
Module: Evaluating the Course
Introduction
Introduction:
Evaluation and feedback are key to both continuous course and instructor quality.
Information:
Evaluation is a critical component of all SAE Professional Development courses. SAE evaluates
courses and instructors according to:
International Association of Continuing Education & Training (IACET) guidelines and
requirements
Feedback from SAE participant course evaluations
The following pages provide information on:
IACET course requirements
o Assessment of learning outcomes
o Evaluation of each learning event/ seminar
Administering and using learning assessments
Administering and using participant evaluations
Completing the instructor self-evaluation
Action:
Read the IACET requirements and create your course learning assessment:
Administer and review participant evaluations
Take the instructor self-evaluation
Continuously improve your course based upon the received feedback
Information on the following pages will assist you in the development and administration of SAE
evaluation tools.
33
Module: Evaluating the Course
IACET Guidelines
SAE is certified by the International Association of Continuing Education & Training (IACET) to
grant IACET CEUs (Continuing Education Units).
IACET guidelines must be followed to maintain certification.
IACET requirements include:
1. Assessment of learning outcomes
2. Evaluation of each learning event/seminar
In order to comply with IACET guidelines, SAE instructors are required to develop learning assessment “tests”.
These “tests” are to be administered close to course conclusion. The following page provides a step-by-step model for creating learning assessments.
Creating and Administering Learning Assessments:
Step 1 Create a 10-15 question multiple choice or true/false assessment. Include assessment with your handout/learning manual on its due date (8 weeks prior to the seminar start date for new seminars). SAE staff will include the assessment at the back of your handout/learning manual.
Step 2 Administer the assessment at (or toward) the end of class
Step 3 Review the assessment: a) Review correct responses with the class b) Obtain an indication of correct answers by a show of hands,
discussion, or other interactive methods c) Attendees should keep their assessment as real-time
feedback and a record of learning
Step 4 Refine course structure and content as appropriate based on attendee learning
34
Module: Evaluating the Course
Course Evaluation
The SAE participant evaluation* is designed to:
Rate overall class
Rate seminar content
Rate instructor skills
Ask open-ended questions for class improvement
Administering Participant Evaluations
Step 1 Hand out SAE course evaluations at class conclusion Review instructions for completing the OMR (optical mark reader) evaluation form with the attendees to ensure accurate results
Step 2 Encourage all attendees to complete and submit their evaluation forms
Step 3 Give completed forms to designated staff
Copies of completed SAE course evaluations with numerical compilation will be mailed to
you following course completion
This compilation will show all instructor averages for comparison purposes
SAE expects scores of 4.0 and above in the rated sections and overall program quality
Using Participant Evaluations:
Actions for SAE Instructors:
Read all over individual evaluations, especially open-ended questions
Look for patterns in responses for continuous improvement opportunities or specific areas
of interest
Work with assigned SAE staff developer to make adjustments to class content, handout,
methodology and visuals
Review changes and compare with course description to ensure any changes are
accurately reflected in the:
o Overview
o Learning objectives
o Who should attend
o Prerequisites
o Seminar Content
35
Module: Evaluating the Course
Taking the Instructor Self-Evaluation
As a quality check, answer these questions:
Did you…
Establish rapport with the audience?
Review the course objectives?
Use appropriate teaching methods for the stated learning objectives?
Show enthusiasm and generate curiosity for the content?
Use teaching strategies that engaged participants in active learning?
Use a variety of instructional methods?
Instruct at a pace that allowed the participants to process the content?
Maintain a teaching pace that was appropriate for the majority of the audience?
Occasionally summarize the content, reemphasizing key points?
Provide feedback to participants and appropriately respond to questions from the
audience?
Were you…
Knowledgeable, using up-to-date content including appropriate citations?
Open to questions and discussions?
Genuinely interested in the needs and concerns of the audience?
* Used with permission, American Physical Therapy Association. This material is copyrighted and any further reproduction or distribution is
prohibited.
36
Web Resources/ Bibliography
Instructor Web Resources:
For tips on presentation design and delivery (also PowerPoint tips):
www.presentationpointers.com
For tips on presentation skills:
www.presentersuniversity.com
For tips on combining adult learning, productivity and activity:
www.learnativity.com
For tips on course design and delivery:
www.astd.org (American Society for Training & Development)
www.ispi.org (International Society for Performance Improvement)
For tips and updates on Microsoft PowerPoint:
www.microsoftofficeupdate.com
For tips and for obtaining and selecting freeware graphics, photographs and other visuals:
www.corbis.com
37
Web Resources/ Bibliography
Annotated Bibliography
Carliner, Saul, Training Design Basics, ASTD, Alexandria, VA, 2004.
Designing Instruction Workshop, Friesen, Kaye and Associates, 1998.
Draves, William A., How to Teach Adults, Learning Resources Network, Manhattan, Kansas,
1997.
Hindle, Tim, Making Presentations, DK Publishing Inc., New York, 1998.
Knowles, Malcolm, Holton, Elwood F. III, Swanson, Richard A., The Adult Learner: The
Definitive Classic in Adult Education and Human Resource Development, Gulf Publishing
Co., Houston, TX, 1998.
Mager, Robert, F., Preparing Instructional Objectives, Lake Publishing Company, Belmont,
CA, 1984.
Mandel, Steve, Technical Presentation Skills, Thomson Course Technology, Boston, MA,
1994.
Robinson, Dana Gaines, Robinson, James C., Performance Consulting: Moving Beyond
Training, Berrett-Koehler Publishers, San Francisco, CA, 1996.
Rosania, Robert J., Presentation Basics, ASTD, Alexandria, VA, 2004.
Stolovich, Harold, D., Keeps, Erica J., Telling Ain’t Training ASTD, Alexandria, VA, 2002.
Van Daele, Carrie, A., 50 One-Minute Tips for Trainers, Thomson Course Technology,
Boston, MA, 1995.
www.astd.org
www.ispi.org
www.creativelearningcentre.com
www.e-learningguru.com
www.ericfacility.net (selected articles)
www.presentersuniversity.com
www.sae.org