Train Smart Part II by Rich Allen

The second half of Train Smart outlines twenty-five key concepts in the TrainSmart Matrix for smarter presentations and trainings.  Using this checklist as a framework, teachers and trainers can be better prepared and create well orchestrated, successful trainings no matter the setting or subject matter presented.  I have outlined the twenty-five key concepts below.

1. Acknowledgement - The art of recognizing and affirming achievement.
2. Bridges and Zones - Zones are physical locations in the training facility set up much like a stage.  Included are the instructional, facilitation and directional zones.  Allen suggests that bridges are the "connection from these zones to our learners." Bridges can by created by altering our voices and using physical gestures as we move from one zone to the next.
3. Comfort Levels - Paying attention to physical and emotional cues to make sure participants feel safe and comfortable in the learning environment.
4. Task Completion -- Wrapping up any concerns or issues with presented material before moving on to new material.
5. Contrast -  Spotlights key concepts in a way that helps increase comprehension and retention.
6. Precise Directions - Presenting with clarity helps participants understand their precise role in the learning process and gives credibility to the trainer.
7. Resource Distribution - If resource distribution takes too much time, we risk losing the attention of participants.  Smart resource distribution utilizes downtime and learner participation. 
8. Teach it Standing -- Getting participants on their feet boosts learning.  Sitting too long can impede learning.  Encourage standing exercises but do not let them go on for more than 3 to 5 minutes.
9. Participant Inquiry - Ask carefully worded questions without putting participants on the spot or making them feel uncomfortable.
10. Adequate Response Time - Trainers must allow time for participants to shift between different mental tasks. 
11. Specify Response Mode -Helps participants understand how the trainer wants them to respond.  It is important to give specific instructions about response.
12. Question/Clarify/Question - Technique used in the early stages of a session which helps set the tone for meaningful discussion. Trainers ask a question, clarify the question with several examples and then restate the question.
13. Managing Disruptions - Offer a sanctioned forum where participants share the spotlight for a time.  Sometimes it is appropriate to use more subtle forms to diffuse disruptive behavior, and other times to use more direct ones.
14. Creative Note-Taking- This technique is known as mind mapping.  This method of note taking uses images which give context and meaning to what is being taught.  Words when associated with colors or symbols help learners retain information.
15. Positive Language - Always speak in positive terms and with cooperative language. 
16. Involve, Don't Tell - Participants encode material more effectively when they are involved in the discussion and training.  Frequent and varied exercises help learners make connections more readily.
17. Ownership - As we include participants in the decision making process during training, the participants become more active in the learning process.
18. Pause for Visuals - Visuals help stimulate learning.  Trainers must allow enough time for participants to study presented visuals for them to process information effectively. 
19. Press and Release - Trainers must give time in between training segments. Brief respites help participants refresh themselves and help them consolidate learning.
20. Purposeful Body Language - Body language speaks volumes.  Trainers should practice gestures to effectively emphasize what is being taught.  Consider posture, location in the room, and the use of silence to facilitate learning. 
21. Visual-Field Variations - Use the entire room to train with effective visuals displayed throughout. 
22. Vocal Italics - Emphasize words that are new and unfamiliar
23. Music Matters - Participants learn more effectively when music is integrated into training. Stress invoked by learning can be reduced as well. 
24. Guiding Attention - While using a range of learning techniques is helpful, it is important to navigate breaks in between learning to keep participants from becoming bored or distracted.
25. Verbal Specifity -- Use positive precise language.  Avoid using legalese or vague, stereotypical language .  Give specific positive feedback.

Allen's checklist is an amazing resource for anyone interested in becoming a more well rounded, successful trainer.  While excited about applying and integrating these strategies, I must admit feeling a bit daunted by the amount of criteria to master in order to facilitate a successful learning environment.  Knowing that learning is a life time process, however, I will choose a few strategies to focus on.  These strategies include: using purposeful body language, incorporating visual-field variations, using music to stimulate learning, and using verbal specifity.