Developing Technical Training: A Structured Approach for Developing Classroom and Computer–based Instructional Materials

Developing Technical Training Third Edition

Since it was first published almost twenty years ago, Developing Technical Training has been a reliable resource for both new and seasoned training specialists. The third edition of this classic book outlines a systematic approach called the Instructional Systems Design (ISD) process that shows how to teach technical content defined as facts, concepts, processes, procedures, and principles. Whether you teach "hard" or "soft" skills, or design lessons for workbooks or computers, you will find the best training methods in this book. Using these techniques, you can create learning environments that will lead to the most efficient and effective acquisition of new knowledge and skills. Throughout the book, Ruth Colvin Clark defines each content type and illustrates how to implement the best instructional methods for delivery in either print or e–learning media.

This new edition includes all new guidelines and examples illustrating how to adapt training methods for new digital learning environments including synchronous, asynchronous, and mobile technologies. Developing Technical Training is written for new training specialists or subject–matter experts to help them:

Follow a systematic process to define training content and develop training materials

Identify the key instructional methods including practice exercises needed to teach facts, concepts, processes, procedures, and principles

Design powerful practice exercises that will lead to learning

Construct test questions to match learning objectives and type of content

Adapt training methods to print and computer–delivered training materials

Acknowledgments xi

Introduction 1

Section One: An Introduction to the Technology of Training 3

1. The Technology of Training 5

2. An Introduction to Structured Lesson Design 33

Section Two: How to Teach Facts, Concepts, Processes, Procedures, and Principles 55

3. How to Teach Procedures 59

4. How to Teach Concepts 81

5. How to Teach Facts 105

6. How to Teach Processes 125

7. How to Teach Principles 145

Section Three: How to Organize Your Lessons and Exploit e–Learning Features 181

8. Organizing Your Training Content 183

9. e–Learning Design 211

Appendix: Exercises 229

Glossary 239

References 259

Index 263

About the Author 269

Pfeiffer Publication Guide 271

Ruth Colvin Clark, the founder of CLARK Training & Consulting, is a recognized specialist in instructional design for workforce learning. She served as training manager for Southern California Edison and is a past president of the International Society for Performance Improvement. Clark is the author of the best–selling e–Learning and the Science of Instruction and Building Expertise, both of which were bestowed the Best Communication Award from ISPI.