Technical tests
Featured in the Learning Needs Analysis training manual
By Beverley Williams
Category: People Management and Motivation
Credit price: 3 download credits (Single user)
It’s true that the application of knowledge is the key issue in learning and development, but it is equally true that someone must possess the necessary knowledge before application is possible. There are many technical areas where you will need to check on the possession of knowledge – for example, health and safety issues, security procedures and product knowledge. Someone may have a full grasp of sales techniques but will still need to know the hard facts about the product they are selling if they are to do a good job. Technical tests can be used as straightforward knowledge checking exercises in their own right or they can be used as a precursor to a full LNA project by developing and delivering the tests to accurately gauge ability levels in particular areas. They can also be used to ensure that people are fully prepared to gain maximum benefit from a skills course. For example, if you are running a course to teach sales skills, it’s a waster of everyone’s time if you have to spend it going over factual information that the participants can read in a brochure or manual. This activity looks at the development of technical tests and considers who should devise them and under what circumstances they should be delivered.
You begin by explaining that although the application of knowledge is key in any learning and development situation, someone must possess the necessary knowledge before it can be applied. You ask the participants to suggest areas where it is essential that staff are fully conversant with technical knowledge and then discuss the standards that need to be applied to technical knowledge tests. The participants then put forward their suggestions for the best person to devise the tests. You introduce the concept of allocating the task to a ‘problem’ team member and ask the participants to work in pairs to consider the advantages and disadvantages attached to each suggestion before deciding on the most suitable person, or rotation of people. You then facilitate a discussion which considers how the tests should be administered before introducing the technical test checklist. The participants work individually to devise a short test using the given material. Next, the participants devise technical tests for ‘live’ material from their own organisation. This is followed by a feedback session when each participant tests their work by asking their colleagues two or three questions. You conclude by taking key learning points from each participant and briefly summarising the activity.
Who is it for: This training activity is intended for use by trainers to ensure participants are capable of managing the development and delivery of technical tests.
| Resource Type: | Activity |
| Min Group Size: | 4 |
| Max Group Size: | 10 |
| Typical Duration: | 02:00:00 |
| No of Pages: | 17 |
Resources: View standard resources for Fenman training activities
Purpose: This training activity is intended for use by trainers with participants who are responsible for identifying the learning needs of others. They may be trainers or line managers with responsibility for training. Participants should have an understanding of LNA within the learning and development cycle.
Download the training activity, Technical tests as featured in the Fenman training manual; Learning Needs Analysis