Information Sheet 2.

1-5
Learning Stations

Learning Objective:

After reading this INFORMATION SHEET, you should be able to

identify different set-up appropriate for the competencies of your
qualification.
Learning station set-up is essential in training. In this lesson you will
identify learning stations appropriate for the acquisition of skills in each
competency of your qualification. Learning station set-up will depend on
the skills to be practiced and the activities to be performed.

Reading Area
Reading modules to acquire knowledge, for example, would only
need the CBLM, a table and chairs which are located in the components
of the your workshop such as the Learning Resource Area. The Computer
Area may also provide additional reading materials which can be searched
from the internet or a part of your e-Learning Materials.

Simulators

Norton (1987) believes that participants in a competency-based

training course should learn in an environment that duplicates or
simulates the work place. Richards (1985) in writing about performance
testing indicates that assessment of skills requires tests using
simulations (e.g., models and role plays) or work samples (i.e.,
performing actual tasks under controlled conditions in either a
laboratory or a job setting). Finally, Delker (1990) in a study of business
and industry found that the best approach for training involved learner-
centered instruction using print, instructional technology and
simulations.

Training simulators or mock-ups – this learning stations

should closely micmic or model the equipment and materials that are
usually in a work area. You should be able to identify what simulators
needs to be set- up so as to provide actual practice of skills within a
competency.

The number of simulators or mock-ups will depend on the number

of machines used in your qualification.
Role-play Area

Role-play areas should mimic the actual work area. As in a

restaurant, the essential parts and workstation arrangements should be
a prime consideration in setting-up the role-play area. The role-play
area may not be the set-up of a whole restaurant but the area where a
Task is being done, as in serving a guest, including the furnitures and
other utensils should be physically present in order that the
performance of the trainee will not be limited by the absence of these
materials.

Benchwork Area

Some qualifications would require a benchwork area to be set-up.

This maybe the common area where benchwork maybe done before the
actual performance of a task, operation or a job.

Other learning stations maybe set-up depending on the need of

the qualification you are teaching. Always consider setting-up at least
one learning station particularly for each competency. As much as
possible avoid using the same station for two or more competencies.
Duplication of workstations or mock-ups is recommended to allow
trainees to have more practice of the skills.