Designing Learning that Works

From simple instructional videos on YouTube up to postgraduate programs there is a huge range of opportunities for people to learn how to work better. This is good, however the quality of learning opportunities does vary enormously and some work better than others. When working with professionals designing training within their workplace the question we are often asked is “How can we design learning that really works in our organisation?” The answer to this is complex and varies with the organisation, the culture and the people. However there are some general principles of design of learning programs that apply in most cases.

Design principles when tailoring a program

Here are the key design principles that we suggest you consider when tailoring a program for your organisation:

• Ensure relevance

• Have a uniting design approach and brand

• Make the program motivating

• Make learning transferable

• Ensure the delivery recognises and values experience

• Keep a close track of logistics

• Evaluate the program to judge return on investment

Relevance across industries

In addition to leadership, management and team performance programs, we have seen these principles apply to a much wider field. We have designed and reviewed programs ranging from:

• Technical medical programs

• New police programs

• Train the trainer programs

• Programs for midwives

• Transport safety training

• Programs for the 15,000 volunteers at the Sydney Olympic Games

In every case we clearly saw these principles apply but of course they had to be adapted to the specific circumstances.