I am not going to say that I am a dog whisperer or that my dog can talk. What I will share are the lessons I learned while trying to train Munchie on basic skills. My husband, my son and I (in that order) were excited about getting a new puppy. We all agreed on who was to responsible for what and the skills we wanted Munchie to display. (We did a needs analysis.) Munchie was to learn sit, stay, down/no (so he wouldn’t jump on people or the furniture), not to chew the paper, shoes, socks, etc. and of course to do his business outside. Later we would add, keep out of MY flower beds and don’t dig in the planters, but that’s another story.
Once we identified the training needed, we began the process. I did the homework: pulled articles off the web, purchased the book “The Miniature Schnauzer” which included a DVD on training. With this information in hand we discussed process and procedure. We were ready for dog training 101. Not so fast. Even though we agreed to what and when (now!), we didn’t agree on a plan of action. Even though we had information in writing, we still reverted back what we “knew” best. My husband didn’t grow up with dogs as pets. What he used was what he heard and his experience with Copper, the Cocker Spaniel we used to have. My son viewed Munchie as his playmate, therefore, training was primarily up to his father and me unless it suited his need. I grew up with dogs as pets and had my view on what to do. Munchie had three different trainers with the same objectives, but with different ways to achieve them.
Sounds familiar? Imagine how confused Munchie was with three different trainers giving the same command but using different hand signals, different expectations about how long is a good stay, and when he deserves a treat. Imagine when Munchie is talking with the other dogs and he is saying how confused his trainers are. They can’t even get their process the same. One person is saying stay. Another person is saying sit. Another person lets me on the sofa and the others won’t. Who should he obey? And until they get it together I will do what I want to do.
Wow, we really could have used a lesson plan…
A lesson plan is a job aid for the trainer/instructor/course leader. It provides the details necessary to conduct a training session. My husband, my son, and I had collaborated on the content. The lack of structure (i.e. the lesson plan) created inconsistent training, a confused Munchie and no real change in behavior. We cannot afford the luxury of a confused learner in training. Additionally, the lesson plan helps to present a consistent message. Every time training is delivered, it is the reputation of the training department that is on the line. If there is an inconsistent message delivered, there is the potential for doubt about your department’s credibility. The lack of consistency in training also gives learners the perception that they can choose what they will or will not do back on the job. Our message must be strong and clear if we are to create a performance change on the job.
I’m not suggesting that training adults is like training dogs, just that lesson plans are a great tool for ensuring consistency and quality regardless of who you are training. Munchie better watch out because we are getting our plan together and taking back our house!!!
Martha
You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.
Comments RSS