Professional development programs are a crucial component of any workplace. Continuing education allows employees to learn new skills, build relationships with their peers, and stay engaged. Still, not every training program offers the same benefits. Business owners and managers must invest in professional growth programs that are designed with intention, provide training in relevant areas, and utilize basic principles in education and curriculum development. If you are working to boost engagement and professional development for your company, consider these concepts in curriculum development and contact the team at Lewis-Price & Associates, Inc.

Curriculum Development is Vital for Any Training Program

Employee training isn’t always simple; getting new employees current with all of the skills they’ll need every day is a significant hurdle for onboarding professionals, and teaching a single subject to a group with inconsistent proficiency levels can be very challenging. Curriculum development is imperative when designing and improving training programs, and it often involves setting clear expectations for learning outcomes and choosing effective teaching methods to meet those goals.

Consider Desired Outcomes and Design Training Accordingly

While you may already know what subject or skill you want your team members to learn, you must also consider the desired outcome. What is the end goal of your professional development program? What would you like your employees to be able to do with their newfound skills and knowledge? What should they gain from the experience? Discuss these objectives with your mission solutions company. The team you choose to train your employees must be able to translate your goals into a functional professional development program, and in-depth knowledge of curriculum enhancement strategies is key.

Models to Consider for Education and Training Programs

Training professionals can use many models, concepts, and strategies to ensure favorable outcomes. These teaching methods are common, and your training professionals may use some or all of them to give your employees the training they need:

• Training – Often organized as seminars, presentations, and lectures, training sessions are typically aimed at larger groups of learners. Presenters and educators instruct the entire group, and subsequent breakout sessions with smaller groups are often successful.
• Mentoring – Many successful professional development programs contain a mentoring component. Mentorship programs involve pairing more experienced working professionals with their less experienced peers. Mentees benefit from advice and guidance from professionals who are more advanced in their careers. Mentors can learn by teaching, help the next generation of professionals in their field, and expand their professional networks.
• Study groups – Study groups or breakout sessions allow peers to work together on specific lessons or problems. This allows them to explore the curriculum in a meaningful way, ask questions, and strengthen relationships with their coworkers.

About Lewis-Price & Associates Inc.

Lewis-Price & Associates, Inc., is a fast-growing mission solutions company supporting federal agencies through premiere training, program management and IT services. Serving federal agencies across the government spectrum, from defense to civilian, we ensure the success of ongoing federal agency operations through effective curriculum development, professional coaching, program management, and administrative and technical services. Lewis-Price is committed to providing high quality, effective and on-time solutions to partners and customers through a team that values integrity, intention and excellence in everything we do. Learn about how we can bring our unique approach to success to your organization today at lewisprice.com, and please follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter.