It has been evident through research that the need for skilled trainers is more important nowadays. But how do trainers themselves stay up-to-date and ensure they’re delivering the best possible training?
This is where Continuing Professional Development (CPD) comes in. This blog has all that you need to know about the continuing professional development of trainers and training providers.
Who is Who in Training?
Commonly, confusion exists between trainers and training providers. And so, people often use them interchangeably; however, here is the clear difference:
Trainers
These are the individuals who actually deliver the training programmes. They share their knowledge and expertise with learners.
Training Providers
These can be individuals or organisations that design, develop, and deliver training programmes. They might employ trainers or deliver the training themselves.
What is the Purpose of Trainer and Training Provider in Training?
The main purpose of a trainer or training provider is to help individuals learn new skills and knowledge. They do this by developing different training programmes that can cater to the specific needs of individuals who are seeking to be trained.
Trainers are the ones who directly interact with learners. They introduce and teach the course material, facilitate discussions, guide learners through practical exercises, monitor learners’ knowledge, and identify areas where they might need additional support.
Meanwhile, the training providers design and develop training programmes based on industry standards or specific client requirements, find qualified trainers with the expertise to deliver the programme effectively, and handle the administrative side of things, such as scheduling and venue arrangements.
Overall, trainers and training providers work together to ensure learners gain the knowledge and skills they need to succeed.
Why Continuing Professional Development of Trainers and Training Providers Matters?
Continuing Professional Development of trainers and training providers matters because trainers and training providers who invest in CPD are like athletes who constantly train.
They’re doing this for a few key reasons that provide them with great long-term benefits, such as:
- Staying up-to-date on industry standards and best practices that ensure trainers are delivering high-quality, and authentic Trainers who engage in CPD always stay ahead of the curve, ensuring their programmes are current and relevant.
- Since new trends and technologies emerge all the time, the trainers who embrace CPD can incorporate these advancements into their programmes, keeping them fresh and engaging.
- CPD activities can help trainers hone their delivery skills, making them even more effective communicator
- By actively continuing their professional development, trainers build credibility and project an image of expertise and dedication. This in turn, helps them stand out in a competitive field.
Trainers who leverage CPD knowledge can create more effective training programmes, leading to improved learning outcomes for participants and learners. This is because CPD can equip trainers with better planning and development skills, allowing them to design and deliver training programmes more strategically.
Where to Focus Your CPD Efforts as a Trainer or a Training Provider?
There are many areas where trainers and training providers can focus their CPD efforts. Here are a few good starting points:
- There is always room for improvement! Look for CPD opportunities that focus on best practices in training delivery and evaluation.
- Explore new training methodologies and techniques to keep your programmes engaging and interactive.
- Learn how to design and develop effective training programmes from scratch.
- Sharpen your skills in creating and utilising effective assessment tools to measure learning outcomes.
- Embrace technology! Explore CPD opportunities on integrating technology into your training programme
- Develop your leadership skills to effectively manage and motivate learners.
Some Final Words
On the grounds of education, one must keep in mind that CPD is not a mere list to tick off as we go. It’s an absolute commitment to continue the learning in order to contribute towards the improvement of competence and credibility in the training process. By investing in CPD, trainers and training providers ensure they are delivering the highest quality training possible, helping learners work towards their progress.
