Abstract:

The ever-evolving landscape of education demands innovative approaches to teaching and learning. One such approach that has gained prominence is Train-the-Trainer (TtT). This concept, often referred to as "help for self-help," is utilized by companies, organizations, and associations to train individuals to become competent trainers capable of imparting their knowledge effectively to others. TtT is a methodical, pedagogical, and psychological education and training of trainers in adult education, emphasizing subject specialization and practical experience. This lecture seeks to explore the multifaceted dimensions of TtT concepts in academic continuing education, with a particular focus on how TtT can address the challenge of workforce shortages.

Compared to traditional trainers, TtT practitioners are typically subject-matter specialists who bring valuable practical experience to their training roles. This dual expertise distinguishes them from conventional trainers. TtT also fosters greater independence from external trainers and flexible training schedules, which are especially valuable in rapidly evolving fields. It is essential to recognize that TtT is not merely a knowledge transfer but a complex endeavor aimed at establishing a sustainable culture of teaching and learning, upheld by predefined quality standards. To achieve this, experienced trainers must avoid uncritically transmitting their own habits and routines, which could negatively impact the learning process.

When creating TtT networks, the presence of a governing authority responsible for training and quality standards is crucial to ensure credibility and trust. Such oversight can be provided by professional associations or academic institutions like universities. A structured training plan applicable to all participants is necessary, detailing the content, objectives, methods, and media/tools for each training session.

TtT concepts offer a multitude of opportunities for mitigating workforce shortages. Beyond enhancing one's career prospects, becoming a trainer strengthens professional networks and provides a platform for exchanging ideas and leveraging collective knowledge and experience. This networking aspect is a unique advantage of TtT that is often overlooked. TtT has already found success in the corporate world, and its potential extends to various domains, including digitalization in education. However, it is essential to consider TtT's applicability in the context of academic institutions, where workforce shortages are increasingly prevalent.

Taking TtT concepts further, regional and supra-regional platforms structured as innovation and competence circles offer exciting possibilities. These circles bring together individuals from diverse fields, united by a common goal of advancing their organizations and themselves. Led by a coach, these groups harness their distinct skills, experiences, and perspectives to drive progress.

In summary, TtT concepts complement formal education and training pathways, offering a means to quickly deploy qualified trainers and facilitate more frequent courses. Collaboration with universities and their continuing education providers holds promise for enhancing TtT concepts in academic continuing education.

This lecture aims to delve into these opportunities and challenges, explore future scenarios, and promote the role of TtT in addressing workforce shortages in academic contexts.

Keywords:

Train-the-trainer, continuing education, networks, workforce shortage.