One of the most effective ways that we learn is through observation, emulation, and demonstration of best practices. This is similar to the ‘monkey-see, monkey-do’ analogy. How this applies to us as learning professionals is a rather impressive one because it directly impacts our ability to demonstrate ‘Best Practices.’ For those who are new or are still learning the process, Dictionary.com defines "Best Practices" as, “A procedure or set of procedures that is preferred or considered standard within an organization, industry, etc.”* To build or develop best practices, we observe those who are mentoring us and emulate their actions or prescribed skill. We can develop best practices from mentoring, job-shadow, conversations, and even following a written list of best practices.
A few things that we often observe and then emulate are, i.e.;
Gestures and mannerisms
Body language
Preparation rituals (preparing a classroom, etc)
Document practices (document layouts, design plans)
Maintaining instructional pacing
Knowing your students and learners
Using Visual Aids
Gaining buy-in Instructional technique
Activity creation
Classroom management
Leadership skills
As stated before, the most effective way to learn ‘best practices’ is to "observe everything and steal shamelessly." There are so many great Learning Professionals in the world. While we may adhere to the same general tenets, we are a very dynamic bunch and all do things differently from one person to the next. This leads to fantastic diversity in application and a never ending variety of technique and skills. If you see something you like done by someone you are watching, and you think you can do that too, steal it and make it your own! Early in my career as a Learning Professional, I was observing an instructor share a story about why the world needed Superman. At that time, I found that the topic was not relevant to the lesson, however I had an open mind. I sat there observing my colleague tell his story, and describe why the world needed this character because of what it represented. During a peak in the story, I had my ‘A-ha’ moment. Watching my colleague move around the room, I noticed how his storytelling had the entire class on the literal edge of their seats, they were in his hand and savoring every word he spoke. His passion and conviction for storytelling, and his ability to tie the story to the learning topic was incredible. I admired that he was able to relate his personal experiences to this topic. After observing my colleague share his passion, I decided that I wanted that skill. I wanted to have my learners hanging onto every word of my story. I wanted to emulate that behavior and apply it to my own storytelling. Speaking with that kind of passion during my stories became a best practice for me, and it is one that I have tried to impress upon everyone that I have interacted with. Are there other ways to tell stories? Yes! This was one example that really stood out for me.
Best practices come in all shapes and sizes beyond the list above, and everyone, I mean everyone, brings something unique to the table. If you like a demonstrated behavior or skill that you see, make it your own. One of the best things about 'Best Practices' is that they can change. What works today, may not be as effective tomorrow. So, we have to continually adapt to the best practice at the time. Besides, there is always something new to learn, and Learning Professionals love to share what they know. If there is something you do not understand, ask questions. We all love to share!
Be sure to; “Observe everything, and steal shamelessly,” and never be afraid to share what you know. Remember that everyone is new at least once and to make learning matter!
#crossroadlearning #trainertiptuesday #makelearningmatter #observeeverything #stealshamelessly #trainerlife #trainerskills #learninganddevelopment #howdoyoumakelearningmatter?
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