Off the job training

• This is when instruction and training are provided away or outside the work environment
• There are a number of off the job training methods including:
• Lessons and lectures-this is the traditional method of training that takes place in Universities, Colleges and schools
• Case Studies- these are documented studies of a specific real-life situations or imagined scenarios.
• Trainees are required to study, analyse, interpret and present solutions
• Discussion groups– where employees are placed in groups for example quality circles
• Development centers
• Group dynamics
• Action learning e.g. practicals in science lab
• Projects
• Business games
• Outdoor training

Advantages of off the job training

• There is minimum distraction as the employee is placed in a conducive learning environment
• Trainees cannot disrupt production or cause damage
• Most training methods are funded by the employee/prospective employee
• A wider range of skills may be taught
• Prepares the employee for eventual employment
• Employees have a chance to meet people from other organisations and gain experience from them

Disadvantages of off the job training

• Can be much more expensive in terms of transport, equipment etc
• Lost production time
• New employees will still need induction training
• Is not a substitute for the real employment process as it can be too theoretical
• There is the possibility of oversight of some aspects which may turn out to be important in the real job
• There is delayed feedback which is needed to refine the teaching methods

To access more topics go to the O Level Business Notes