Foundations of Training and Facilitation

This introductory unit establishes foundational knowledge and skills for training and development, covering adult learning theory, the ADDIE training cycle (with an evaluation-first mindset), needs assessment, session openings, facilitation versus presentation, environment and visual selection, and follow-up strategies. Learners will apply these foundations to create a one-session instructional plan and facilitator materials that prepare them for advanced design, delivery, and evaluation tasks in subsequent units.

Learning Objectives

• Analyze adult learning theories, organizational mindsets, and learning culture factors to identify learner characteristics and workplace training needs in a sample context
• Apply the ADDIE model, beginning with a needs assessment, to develop a one-session instructional plan with measurable objectives, assessment strategies, and an evaluation-first approach
• Demonstrate effective opening techniques, facilitation practices, and environment/visual selections by producing a facilitator plan and sample materials for both in-person and online delivery
• Evaluate the purposes of training evaluation and design follow-up, remediation, and problem-mitigation strategies to increase retention and workplace transfer, recommending solutions for at least three common training problems