Job Aids as Training
In traditional formal training the learner
is
expected
to
commit
what
they
learn
to
long-term
memory.
Not
all
learning
is
appropriate
for
formal
training.
Job
aids
can
replace
or
compliment
formal
training.
They
provide
immediate
performance
assistance
as
needed.
Job aids are useful when a task is performed
infrequently,
when
safety
and
outcome
are
at
risk,
when
the
task
is
simple,
when
resource
limitations
do
not
support
formal
training,
and
when
complex
tasks
require
support.
The
folks
on
the
front
line
doing
the
tasks
are
the
best
source
to
learn
what
topics
are
most
needed.
Job Aid Types
Job
aids
fall
into
three
(3)
categories:
procedural,
informational,
and
coaching.
1. Procedural job aids are the most
common.
They
answer
the
how
and
when
of
specific
processes.
The
user
is
given
specific
steps
to
follow
in
a
certain
order.
The
order
may
contain
decision
branches,
depending
on
the
process.
2. Informational job aids include
common
items
such
as
glossaries
and
maps.
They
answer
the
how,
what,
which
or
where
questions
about
information.
The
content
is
not
presented
by
any
order
of
action,
but
is
organized
by
the
user's
frame
of
reference.
3. Coaching job aids offer expert
advice
and
key
information.
They
are
intended
to
assist
the
user
in
developing
a
mental
model.
They
offer
perspectives,
and
prompt
user
about
thoughts
and
ideas.
Job Aid Elements
Job
aids
should
include:
- Complete list of tools needed to complete
the
task
described
- Highlighted warnings for any dangers
- Defined steps in the appropriate order
to
complete
the
task
(May
include
decision
tables
which
guide
the
user
through
alternate
scenarios
that
may
occur)
Complete
description
of
the
desired
outcome
of
the
task
- Easy confirmation for user to determine
that
task
was
performed
correctly
- Convenient placement of the aids for the
user
(Especially
when
safety
is
at
stake)
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