Scouter Article July 2009
What Makes a Great Trainer?
Scouting is full of complicated jobs: Unit Leader, Chartered Organization Representative, Commissioner, Event and Committee Chair, Trainer – the list goes on. But what makes a great Trainer?
Training demands a broad knowledge of the subject matter. In Scouting, this includes most elements of program, leadership, management, policies and standards. Training also requires enthusiasm, a caring attitude, a love of learning, and desire to make a difference in the lives of young people (and older people, too.) With all of these qualities, great Trainers usually exhibit most of these characteristics:
Great Trainers use clear, well written presentations. Even when provided with the standard or “official” course curriculum, the great Trainer personalizes and adapts the syllabus to the audience and the environment. And they always use handouts.
Great Trainers are prepared and organized. They arrive for training sessions early and ready to train. They ensure that the training room is functional and organized to minimize distractions and maximize learning. They start on time and finish on time.
Great Trainers engage their trainees, and get them to look at the subject manner in a variety of ways. Great trainers know that the syllabus is merely the starting point for any training program, they ask “why” questions and encourage participants to also ask questions. They ensure that the entire class is motivated and don’t allow a handful of trainees to dominate.
Great Trainers are masters of their subject matter. They know about all aspects of Scouting and are enthusiastic about sharing their knowledge and experience. They present material with enthusiasm and energy.
Great Trainers are great communicators. They know how to present material in a clear and concise manner. They engage their trainees; they make certain that the message they send is the same message that is received by their students. They also seek feedback, recognizing that feedback is a gift.
Great Trainers are lifelong learners. They never stop learning about Scouting.
The next time you encounter a great Trainer, thank them for their time, effort, energy, enthusiasm, and commitment to Scouting.
Are you making a difference? The answer should be YES.
Jay Lubin
Council Training Chair
"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful citizens can change the world.
Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has."
~ Margaret Mead