As a general rule, people learn better when they are active and are able to participate in the learning process.  This is particularly true of skills and attitudes.  Participants are more likely to retain information when various styles of presentation are used.  On average, participants will need to hear information six or more times to understand the information and its relevance to a given situation.  Repetition is important, but different presentation styles also facilitate different types of learning (cognitive, affective, behavioral).

There are several training techniques that can be used to assure active participation an adult audience.  The methods discussed below are suggested for use with groups of 12-20 people.

It is not necessary to limit yourself to one training technique throughout an entire session.  Utilization of various methods not only facilitates increased attention and productivity of group members, but also mirrors real-life situations that may necessitate simultaneous employment of several models of behavior. Furthermore, facilitators should rotate techniques: circle - small groups - mini-lectures - small groups - brainstorming - work in pairs - joint work of the whole group - small groups- role-playing game, etc.