“I cannot teach you anything”

Well that is quite a title for a training article, but it is only half of the quote! The other half is “I can only arrange the knowledge so you can learn.” This quote, by Socrates, is the guiding principle for developing and delivering Viking training programs.

When developing a training program, for 1 hour, 1 day or multiple days, we always begin with the learning outcomes. What do we expect the participants to be capable of upon completion of the training? Once these are established, we can then identify the most appropriate format and platform for delivery of the training. In other words, “what is the most effective arrangement of the knowledge to encourage engagement and learning.

While there are many different approaches, Viking programs focus on four approaches that can address most of the ways people like to learn.

Lecture

The primary function of a lecture is to present information in an organized manner, in a relatively short time period. In doing so, the lecture may then provide a framework for further study. The benefits of this one-way monologue model of teaching are clear. The material is presented in a clear, precise and orderly format that most adults are familiar and comfortable with. This format is effective in large groups and provides a degree of “face time” with the “expert.”

Collaborative Learning

This approach flips the classroom for a time and encourages the learning teams to find solutions as a group. Learning from each other. The facilitator then guides the group(s) back through the activity and each group then benefits from the solutions found by their colleagues.

Experiential Learning

This approach to learning is intended to engage the participant through physical interaction with a system or technology related to Viking products. For example, our Riser Lab allows for hands-on interaction with the system’s functionality. Literally operating and resetting while you learn how the system works. Our hands-labs provide interaction with sprinkler systems, foam systems, Oxeo systems, VACTEC, fire pumps, sprinklers and hydrants.

Other modules engage with our digital technology like vDesign, Sprinkler Selector, Valve & System Configurator, Foam Systems Estimators or Oxeo System Estimators.

Virtual Reality

With physical/tactile learning, experiential learning is not possible or is incomplete, the Virtual Viking learning platform is used to provide access to systems and provide an inside look at system functionality. Virtual Viking is a fully immersive environment that demonstrates how the system operates and provides a means to learn by doing, with or without being in the Viking Learning Center.

People like to learn in different ways. At Viking, we have arranged the knowledge in many different ways to deliver training that is accessible, applicable and engaging.