Planning

Learning Objectives
As a result of this training experience, you will be able to:
List the six steps required in planning training courses. Explain the value and importance of carefully planned training courses. State two basic types of plans.

PRE-PLANNING
Who gives you your training assignments?

Do you always receive an assignment from someone else?

PREPRE-PLANNING
What questions must be answered before developing a training plan?

Planning

Step 1. DEFINE THE TASK

What would we need to know about the assignment before we accept?
All the facts and figures: where, when, how, what and who The objective or goal of the assignment: what we are trying to accomplish

Step 2. IDENTIFY RESOURCES

When we consider the resources needed and available, we need to ask ourselves:
What resources do we need to accomplish the task? What do we already have? Where do we get what we dont have? Are there any resources that require special attention, advance planning, or significant expense? Are there alternatives?

Step 3. CONSIDER ALTERNATIVES

This step relates to alternate methods and procedures for a training course. These might include:
What kind of training aids should we use? Which technique will be best for getting the message across? How should we arrange the tables and chairs?

Step 3. CONSIDER ALTERNATIVES

This also relates to emergencies or the unexpected. We should have a backup plan (Plan B).
Are we prepared for equipment failures? Do we have an alternative session element ready to use while a problem is corrected? Do we have backup presenters in case a member of the training team suddenly becomes ill and cannot attend? Do we have modules that can be compressed or deleted if there are time constraints?

Step 3. CONSIDER ALTERNATIVES

As trainers, we must set a good example. If training courses are to run smoothly, we must be prepared for the unexpected. We need to decide which options are best, and what alternative measures should be taken.

Step 4. CREATE THE PLAN

Creating a workable plan can be a challenge.
Training session outlines are provided in BSA training manuals. We need to fill in the blank spaces.

A written plan tells everyone concerned what is expected, and when.

It provides a permanent record that will be helpful the next time we conduct the course. It can serve as a backdated checklist

Step 4. CREATE THE PLAN

We should always create our plans in written form.

We may want to include events that precede the training course, as well.

Step 5. WORK THE PLAN

Be sure you are ready. Review the previous steps. Do it! Hold the training course. Follow the written plan, but be flexible and make any adjustments needed.

Step 6. EVALUATE
What should we evaluate about a training course?
Did we accomplish what we set out to do? Will we conduct it the same way again? If not, what changes would we make?

BENEFITS OF PLANNING
We all know that problems occur from poor planning, but what benefits can we expect from good planning?

BENEFITS OF PLANNING
Increased attendance at the next training session. Trainers build confidence and skill in handling training aids and equipment. Leaders receive accurate and complete information, and do a better job as a result. Trainers know what is expected. Trainers stay within the time limits. Trainers give enthusiasm and confidence to other leaders. Learning objectives are achieved.

TWO TYPES OF PLANS

There are two types of plans that relate to training: SHORT-RANGE PLANS SHORTLONGLONG-RANGE PLANS

SHORTSHORT-RANGE PLANS
Meet a particular objective in the near future Cover a limited area of training Answer the question: Are we doing things right? Should fit well within and contribute to long-range plans longSome examples: Plans for basic training sessions for new leaders who have just been recruited Plans for a den chief training conference Plans for training roundtable staff members

LONG RANGE PLANS

Cover a longer time May include a variety of different types of training Some examples: An annual plan, including Fast Start and basic training Makeup training sessions Den chief training Regular monthly roundtables Supplemental training Personal coaching Self-study Self-

LONG RANGE PLANS

We should not overlook the importance of long-range plans in providing a total longleadership growth and development program for leaders.

SHORTSHORT- AND LONG-RANGE PLANS LONGBoth short-range and long-range plans are shortlongdeveloped using the six steps discussed earlier. Planning is crucial in administering an effective training program.

Assignment
Plan the teams BSA 500 victory celebration, using the Six Steps of Planning.

SUMMARY

A well planned training course is easier to present and easier for participants to understand. The process permits each planning step to be revisited whenever necessary. OnOn-going improvements make training more effective.