Three reasons why training programs fail

A common problem with training in many sectors, including software testing, is that the content isn’t sufficiently relevant to the real-world job. Here are three reasons why training programs fail:

1. Programs are frequently written and influenced by stakeholders who are too far removed from the job

Folks involved in creating training are often made up of internal stakeholders at training institutions and external stakeholders in managerial or learning coordination positions at individual businesses or industry organisations.?

While these perspectives are important, they don’t paint the complete picture. Steps must be taken to capture the insights from folks who arguably know the role better than anyone else, the folks doing the day-to-day job.

2. Programs are too rigid and slow to evolve to changes in the industry

The world of work changes rapidly, never more so than in the software industry. Red tape, paperwork and administrative overload are common obstacles in the redevelopment of new training programs.?

A shift in identifying and approving required training revisions is needed. Moving to open-source curricula with a whole community able to review the outcomes would speed up the identification of any required changes to a program.

3. Training programs regularly don’t focus on how to apply learning theory in the real world

Training programs are often designed and organised by subject resulting in a focus on theory and not on how to apply this knowledge in the real world. This results in a gap where learners know the content but not how to apply it to their job.

Programs should shift to being organised by tasks to focus on how to apply theory in practice. It’s important to identify relevant knowledge, skills, attitudes, and values that help target learners complete their roles. Any evaluation of their learning should focus on their ability to complete relevant tasks in real-world scenarios.

Help shape modern training for Junior Testers

If you are a Junior Tester or work closely with Junior Testers, you can help shape a new curriculum. There are many ways to get involved, both big and small, and any contribution you make will result in you being recognised as a curriculum contributor. To get started, subscribe to the Ministry of Testing curriculum topic page.