What size training group is ideal for you?
When you're giving training sessions, what size group do you typically prefer - small group, medium or full classroom? I'm a fan of the smaller groups, but obviously training up multiple people at once is more efficient. How do you guys like to run your trainings?
Comments (7)
It depends on why you are training. For annual refresher training, I prefer the larger groups where you can generate more discussion between groups.
For new miner training, 24 hours, I prefer the smaller group of 3-4 so there’s a lot of personal interaction and I can tell when the new miner “gets it!”
It depends on the training, but typically 6-8 is my sweet spot. Enough find that there can be discussion, different viewpoints, and good questions, but not so many that people feel left out or like they can't speak up.
Depends on how many instructors are present. Typically, I follow the 10:1 ratio (10 students for every instructor). Many CPR training providers require a second instructor above 10 students (e.g., AHA, HSI, etc.). Ultimately, a person's span of control is 5-7 people. If it's condensed monthly training, I can do over 20 if its mostly classroom lecture. However, anytime hands-on skills are involved, I always try to stop at 10 per training session (if possible).
Less people the better for me. I like to get to know the people I train and it allows me to make sure they are grasping the information. In large groups, there will always be people who aren't listening and as the trainer, I can't take up time making sure each and every person is understanding the information.