Nancy R. Heineke, BSEd, Scientific Technologies Corporation, 4400 E. Broadway Blvd., Suite 705, Tucson, AZ 85711, 216-741-6065, nancy_Heineke@stchome.com

Computer technology is in popular demand to serve as unparalleled business solutions for private and public health-oriented arenas. Technical applications are being exalted by local, state and federal health departments. Databases and departments are merging in a new way, enhancing health and welfare. Ironically though, these exact same wonderful solutions can also be a direct source of frustration.

Frustration happens when knowledge and skills aren�t properly transferred from the technical developer (computer programmer) to the every day user (worker). Integrating new applications successfully requires on-going training as a necessary part of most every business practice - private and public. Workers become students as software and new technology are introduced into the workplace. But workers � usually adults who have been away from �traditional� schooling for some time � can be challenging to teach.

A well designed training program pays for itself and increases the bottom line. Training experts suggest to employers to �do it right the first time.� The key to knowledge-transfer in a business setting is to provide learning opportunities that are; efficient, effective and appropriate.

Appropriate training takes into consideration the student�s learning style. Adults learn differently than children and teens. Adults are self-reliant and want well-organized lessons. Trainers must either understand these differences when designing their courses or risk teaching by default. Trainers who doesn�t consciously incorporate adult learning methodologies into their program will by default incorporate styles that were used on them as children. A sure way to become quickly unsuccessful in the adult classroom.

Learning Objectives:

At the conclusion of the session, participants will be able to;
• Identify the critical components of successful technical training.
• Identify learning characteristics specific to adults.
• Describe various training methods and associated benefits and disadvantages of each.
• Develop an appropriate training plan for their organization.

Keywords: Teaching, Technology

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.