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Asked and Answered: Class Size and SMEs By Bob Pike CSP, CPAE A reader asks: I am trying to develop a position for our organization's use of Subject Matter Experts as trainers in matters that are technical and require their expertise. Is there an industry standard for a ratio of students to instructors in a lecture setting? Does it differ if the class is designed for case studies that require participants to form into groups of 4 to 5 people? Does it differ if the class is hands-on with participants using computers?
I have tried a variety of sources and have not been able to find anything of help. I have enjoyed Creative Training Techniques and thought you might have an answer.
Bob Pike answers: I am not aware of any industry standard although I must admit that I cringe when I hear the words “lecture setting.” If you follow this link, you’ll find some suggestions on moving SMEs from lecture to being participant-centered.
I think it's also important to work with SMEs on their content since they tend to think that everything they know should be presented. We help them map everything and then divide it into need to know, nice to know, and where to go.Training managers? David Hardison and Phil Cowan offer ideas on how to best communicate with them while reducing their training anxiety. Need to add a little foshizzle to your training session? Use this little object lesson from Bob Pike Group Senior Training Consultant Doug McCallum. You'll need a glass of water, one Advil and an Alka-Seltzer tablet. Asked: Are there any best practice guidelines on how to write an introduction? What should a good introduction contain, how long should it be, etc.? Becky Pluth responds...
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