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Simulating the real world of work is a necessary feature of many technical training programmes so that theory is transformed into experiential learning. The design of a technical training programme by Coopers & Lybrand to accomplish this is described, together with two examples of how the course works in practice.

The Experiential Learning Model of Kolb, Rubin and McIntyre (1984) and the Learning Style Inventory (LSI) developed by Kolb is discussed in relation to accountants. The theory and the Inventory are examined, and various criticisms of the LSI are presented. Research using the LSI to identify the preferred learning styles of accountants and accounting students is discussed, and compared with the author′s own research in one of the “Big Eight” firms. The difficulties in applying Kolb′s work are outlined, and some suggestions made about the usefulness for accounting educators of learning style theory in the design and presentation of continuing education courses.

Transfer of training is the effective application by trainees to their jobs of the knowledge and skills learned. Training transfer does not “just happen” — a course designer needs to facilitate this transfer by building into the course those factors which will motivate participants to apply the content to their jobs.

Changes in the format of library materials, increased amounts of information, and the speed at which information is being produced have created an unrelenting need for training for library staff members. Additionally, library employees are retiring in greater numbers and their accompanying expertise is being lost. The purpose of this study was to document evaluation practices currently used in library training and continuing education programs for library employees, including metrics used in calculating return-on-investment (ROI). This research project asked 272 library training professionals to identify how they evaluate training, what kind of training evaluation practices are in place, how they select programs to evaluate for ROI, and what criteria are important in determining an effective method for calculating ROI.