A few years ago, I created a simple model for training effectiveness based on the scientific research on learning in conjunction with some practical considerations (to make the model’s recommendations leverageable for learning professionals). People keep asking me about the model, so I’m going to briefly describe it here. If you want to look at my original YouTube video about the model — which goes into more depth — you can view that here. You can also see me in my bald phase.

The Training Maximizers Model includes 7 requirements for ensuring our training or teaching will achieve maximum results.

• A. Valid Credible Content
• B. Engaging Learning Events
• C. Support for Basic Understanding
• D. Support for Decision-Making Competence
• E. Support for Long-Term Remembering
• F. Support for Application of Learning
• G. Support for Perseverance in Learning

Here’s a graphic depiction:

Most training today is pretty good at A, B, and C but fails to provide the other supports that learning requires. This is a MAJOR PROBLEM because learners who can’t make decisions (D), learners who can’t remember what they’ve learned (E), learners who can’t apply what they’ve learned (F), and learners who can’t persevere in their own learning (G); are learners who simply haven’t received leverageable benefits.

When we train or teach only to A, B, and C, we aren’t really helping our learners, we aren’t providing a return on the learning investments, we haven’t done enough to support our learners’ future performance.