Active learning ideas
Training and Development focuses on how businesses improve the skills and knowledge of their employees. It covers induction training, on-the-job training, and off-the-job training. For Year 11 students, this topic highlights the importance of lifelong learning and how businesses invest in their staff to stay competitive.
Activity 01
One student 'trains' another on a complex task (like a specific origami fold) using only verbal instructions. Then, another pair uses 'on-the-job' coaching. They compare the speed and quality of the final result.
Why do businesses invest in employee training?
Activity 02
Groups are given a budget to train a team of five employees. They must choose between an expensive external course or a cheaper internal mentor, calculating the 'Return on Investment' based on predicted productivity gains.
What is the difference between on-the-job and off-the-job training?
Activity 03
Students create posters for a 'Perfect Induction Day' for a new employee at a famous company (e.g., Google or Disney). They walk around to vote on which induction would make them feel most welcome and prepared.
How does training impact staff retention?
A few notes on teaching this unit
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
Training is a waste of money because staff might leave.
The risk of *not* training staff (incompetence, accidents) is usually higher. A 'debate' about the famous quote, 'What if we train them and they leave? What if we don't and they stay?', helps students see the strategic necessity of training.
On-the-job training is always better because it's cheaper.
It can pass on bad habits and cause distractions. Peer-to-peer discussion about 'learning to drive' (parent vs. professional instructor) helps students understand when off-the-job expertise is worth the cost.
Methods used in this brief
Organisational Structures
Students examine different organisational structures and their impact on communication. They will explore concepts like span of control and chain of command.
8 methodologies
Recruitment and Selection
This topic covers the recruitment process, from identifying a vacancy to selecting a candidate. Students will compare internal and external recruitment methods.
8 methodologies
Motivating Employees
Students will explore financial and non-financial methods of motivation. They will understand the benefits of a motivated workforce to a business.
8 methodologies