Select Tasks for Training

DOE-HDBK-1078-94

2.3

2.3.1 Develop Numerical Averaging Criteria. After analyzing the survey results

the numerical averages of the responses are used to identify which tasks will

be selected for training. Tasks are selected or deselected for training using a

systematic process similar to the one illustrated in Figure 1. This process

involves the establishment of criteria for each category that represents tasks

according to their average numeric position on the questionnaire scales (e.g.,

Difficulty: very, moderate, not). The numeric cutoff points should be based

on consideration of the relative impact of the category on the operation

concerned. Figure 1 contains example ranges for each of the categories.

Normally, Task Importance and Task Difficulty have a greater impact than

Task Frequency, and the outcome of the decision tree reflects this.

2.3.2 Apply Responses to the Decision Tree. After the criteria developed in

Section 2.3.1 have been established, the numerical average of each of the tasks

is inserted into the decision tree (Figure 1) and the proper path is chosen.

Tasks should then be sorted into groups according to similar combinations of

average difficulty, importance, and frequency ratings as shown in Figure 1.

The decisions arrived at using this procedure result in a grouping of tasks

along a scale so that one end of the scale contains difficult, important, and

frequently performed tasks; the other end of the scale contains the easy, less

important, and infrequently performed tasks. Tasks that are identified as No

Train should be reviewed by subject matter experts and supervision to assure

that no formal training is needed.

2.3.3 Develop a Train/No Train/Overtrain List. Each group of tasks, in turn, is

associated with a recommendation to train, not to train, or to overtrain as

follows:

TRAIN. Provide a combination of formal training (e.g., classroom, on-the-job,

drills, simulators, etc.).

NO TRAIN. No Train is not to be interpreted to mean that no training at

all is required. It means that no formal training (refer to Train above) is

necessary; the task can be learned on the job.

OVERTRAIN. Provide a combination of formal training plus periodic

practice of the task (retraining).

2.3.4 Validate the Lists. At this point, the Train/No Train/Overtrain lists should

be reviewed by a committee. This review is intended to provide concurrence

and/or refinement to the list of tasks identified for training. The committee

should consist of representatives from training, SMEs, and management since