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Developing and Managing Part-Time Trainers, Part 1 - The Manager's Role

NCJ Number
98373
Author(s)
P Katsampes
Date Published
1984
Length
23 pages
Annotation
This manual describes the issues and requirements involved in the use of part-time and temporary persons in a correctional staff training program and the manager's role as liaison.
Abstract
Part-time trainers can be critical to the success of a training program because they are less costly, they can provide a link to the worker's world through their current job experience, and they can provide 'new blood.' A manager's method for dealing with a part-time trainer is considered. This can be direct instruction from the manager, consultative, with the manager making final decisions, or truly participative between the manager and the trainer. Criteria for choosing a part-time trainer are defined. Considerations are budget; means of instruction, which will require a certain experience level; and the pool of trainers from which to choose. Background, traits, and characteristics of a part-time trainer are defined. Important factors are high energy level, commitment to an extra effort to ensure success, empathy for and credibility with the trainees, and high level of education. Other considerations noted are the trainer's attitudes and values, knowledge of the training process, and human relations skills. Contracting between the manager and the part-time trainer is described, and stages in developing a contract are highlighted. Emphasized are a flexible approach on the part of manager and trainer and their viewing the contract as a tool. Attention is also given to the trainer's environment and the manager's control over logistical arrangements. The final processes of monitoring and evaluation and possible recontracting are discussed. A manager's checklist for part-time trainers is provided. Nine reference notes are listed.