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Study Notes

Training - On-the-job Training

Level:
GCSE
Board:
AQA, Edexcel, IB, OCR

Last updated 22 Mar 2021

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With on the job training, employees receive training whilst remaining in the workplace.

The main methods of one-the-job training include:

  • Demonstration / instruction - showing the trainee how to do the job
  • Coaching - a more intensive method of training that involves a close working relationship between an experienced employee and the trainee
  • Job rotation - where the trainee is given several jobs in succession, to gain experience of a wide range of activities (e.g. a graduate management trainee might spend periods in several different departments)
  • Projects - employees join a project team - which gives them exposure to other parts of the business and allow them to take part in new activities. Most successful project teams are "multi-disciplinary"

The advantages and disadvantages of this form of training can be summarised as follows:

Advantages

Disadvantages

Generally most cost-effective

Employees are actually productive

Opportunity to learn whilst doing

Training alongside real colleagues

Quality depends on ability of trainer and time available

Bad habits might be passed on

Learning environment may not be conducive

Potential disruption to production

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