Practitioner tips to help learners be prepared and organized

  • Actively involve learners in developing and monitoring their training plan.
  • Have an agenda for each lesson - go over it at the beginning and at the end of the training session. List what will be done next and how learners can prepare.
  • Have structure and routine in small group or classroom settings.
  • Be clear on the criteria and expectations of the demonstrations.
  • Give directions and assignments both orally and in written form whenever possible.
  • Allow practice and determine which way is best suited for individuals to demonstrate their knowledge and skills.
  • Have a class discussion in which learners share their ideas about keeping organized.
  • Make organization of time, space, and materials as explicit as possible. Post weekly, monthly, and long-term jobs and responsibilities; classroom calendars; homework assignments; and other important information in regular locations on bulletin boards, blackboards, or posters. Use visual organizers, references and reminders.
  • Encourage the use of checklists for daily tasks, weekly tasks, etc.
  • Allow learners to experience the consequences of their disorganization to help demonstrate the impact. Begin problem-solving to help them prevent the situations from occurring again.
  • Praise and reward learners for improved organization.12