An e-mail newsletter for people who train staff who
serve people with developmental disabilities.

How Does that Apply to Me?

Ellen Hierl
Education Specialist
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To be honest, I love to know the theory behind what I am doing. Even as a child I would take my toys apart in order to learn how they worked.

As trainers, we know a lot of information about the theory behind the practices and procedures we teach. Some of it comes from regulations, or it may be based on our efforts to stay abreast of the best practices in our field.

All of that information is good, but is it always necessary to share it in a training session? Most learners ask, “How does that apply to me?” Too much or unnecessary theory may not answer that question.

It May Be Necessary When . . .

• It answers the question “why.” Adult learners want to know the “why” behind what they do. Answering that question helps them accept and put into practice what you are teaching. For instance, if you are teaching a new method for an old practice, teaching the theory behind the change may be important if you expect the learners to adopt the new method.
• It is a foundational topic. Sometimes the theory behind what you are teaching is necessary in order for the topic to be understood. For instance, I may teach the importance of handwashing for good infection control. If I don’t also teach the foundational information on microorganisms and how they are spread, staff my not practice good infection control beyond just washing their hands.

It May Not Be Necessary When . . .

• It distracts from the topic. Sometimes the background and theory behind what you are teaching serves only to distract from the important information you are trying to teach. Remember, most adult learners want to know information that directly applies to them and their jobs. If giving lots of theory distracts from this, they may not learn what you really want them to know.
• It takes a lot of time to explain. Adult learners often want learning to “get to the point.” If you spend too much time on theory, by the time you get to the point, your learners may no longer be listening. If you feel it is necessary for learners to have this information, consider giving it to them in a written format. This way you can quickly cover the main points, and the learners can fill in the details at their convenience.

As you look at developing training, remember to stick to your objectives for the session. If the information doesn’t fit with the objectives, ask yourself why you are including it in the session.

Ellen Hierl, Education Specialist
Bethesda Lutheran Homes and Services, Inc.
About Ellen | Ask Ellen a Question

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Last Issue’s Survey

What methods do you use to ensure what you teach is actually used on the job?

My job is only to teach. What happens after that is not my problem.	4%
I ensure supervisors know the content of the training so they can coach their staff.	48%
I spend time coaching the staff that I taught.	36%
I send out reminders about what was covered in training.	12%

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Free Shipping until December 31, 2006

Purchase your staff education materials by December 31, 2006, and receive FREE regular shipping! No minimum order. Free shipping does not apply to expedited, priority or overnight shipping.

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Save on Staff Development Videos from Bethesda's NCRC!

Bethesda is having a “Buy 5–Get 1 Free” sale on staff development videos. For every five titles (VHS or DVD) purchased at the regular price, you can select a sixth title free!

There’s no limit to the number of free videos you can receive. Buy 10; get two free. Buy 15; get three free. Please note that the free item(s) will be the lowest priced videos on your order. This offer does not apply to Independent Study Modules.

To redeem this offer, visit Bethesda's online Staff Development Catalog and enter 5GETS6 at checkout. Or call 800.369.4636, ext. 3541, fax 920.262.6513 or e-mail ncrc@blhs.org and mention code 5GETS6. Offer expires December 31, 2006.

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Bethesda remains steadfast in its efforts to provide you with new and updated staff development video titles. Shop Bethesda’s Staff Development Catalog

Death and Dying: Saying Goodbye

Death is a reality. Yet, for many people, it is a difficult subject to talk about. It can be especially challenging when death touches the life of a person with developmental disabilities. This program provides you with the tools you need to help the people you support accept the deaths of family, friends and housemates, as well as their own inevitable passing. These tools also assist staff as they deal with the reality of someone’s death.

Learn more and view a preview of
Death and Dying: Saying Goodbye

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Six Newest Titles

Priced at just $25 per title, Bethesda’s Independent Study Modules offer an affordable and convenient method for staff training. Check out our newest titles and the 24-volume set:

• Building Behavior Supports
• Cardiac Concerns
• Fragile X Syndrome
• Preparing People You Support for Disasters
• The Surveyors Are Coming: Are You Ready?
• Writing and Implementing Learning Objectives

Independent Study Module 24-volume Set
Individual titles from Bethesda’s collection of Independent Study Modules cost $25 each; however, you may now purchase all of our titles in an 24-volume set for $500. That’s a $100 savings!

What are Independent Study Modules?

They are paper-based training materials that are presented in an easy-to-read, self-paced format. These workbooks are convenient for late-night or weekend-shift staff and are a ready reference for veteran staff. Interactive activities and competency testing help staff retain the information. Plus, the workbooks are conveniently packaged for storage in your filing cabinet or 3-ring binder.

What do Independent Study Modules include?

• Study manual
• Worksheet and answer key
• Competency measure and answer key
• Engaging activities for both individuals and small groups
• Permission to make as many copies as your agency needs

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New Video Release
- Death and Dying: Saying Goodbye
New Independent Study Modules
- Building Behavior Supports
- Cardiac Concerns
- Fragile X Syndrome
- Preparing People You Support for Disasters
- The Surveyors Are Coming: Are You Ready?
- Writing and Implementing Learning Objectives
- Independent Study Module 24-volume Set

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Bethesda Lutheran Homes and Services, Inc.
Attn: National Christian Resource Center (NCRC)
600 Hoffmann Dr.
Watertown, WI 53094

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© 2006 Bethesda Lutheran Homes and Services, Inc.