The Theory and Practice of Training

Citation

Cattell, A. (2001), "The Theory and Practice of Training", Industrial and Commercial Training, Vol. 33 No. 2. https://doi.org/10.1108/ict.2001.03733bae.002

The Theory and Practice of Training

The Theory and Practice of Training

Roger Buckley and Jim CapleKogan Page£22.50

Keywords: Training, Training techniques

First published in 1990, and now in its fourth edition, this book is represented as a comprehensive introduction to the subject matter and intended for a readership of both trainers and managers. As such, the text includes detail and discussion of theory and practice relating to:

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  training and the organisational environment;

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  theoretical models of training;

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  systematic approaches to training;

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  proactive and reactive identification of training needs;

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  competence-based training;

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  training objectives;

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  learning principles and conditions;

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  training strategies and methods; and

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  evaluation of the effectiveness of training.

Recent changes in training are captured in new sections covering computers and online training, developments in competency, lifelong learning, benchmarking and auditing. Particularly thought-provoking are the sections on the organisational context of learning and training, and the changing role of the trainer as regards the move from trainer-centred training towards more learner-centred approaches.

The reader is, however, left with the overall impression that new text has been added as an adjunct to already written sections and material rather than integrated within them. This is highlighted by the fact that references in many sections of the text refer to the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s, while fewer sections give 1990s' references. Reference to personnel rather than human resources also adds to the impression that certain elements of the book are perhaps caught in a time warp.

The text has an unashamedly "open" systems approach to training about it. Whilst some readers may find the section on "Analysis for training" stimulating, others may find this to be rather heavy on detail in comparison to other more readable narrative sections within the book.

Buckley and Caple have combined their experience within the fields of management, education, training and development to produce a text which explores both the theory and practice of training. As such, the book lives up to its title. Real-life examples, diagrams, models and numerous figures are used to punctuate the text and retain the interest of the reader. As an introduction to the field of training, the book has much to offer. However, new students of the subject matter may become frustrated by the lack of "current" references within the narrative. At £22.50 the book represents reasonable value for money.

Alan CattellStaff Development Manager, University of Bradford