On-the-job training (OJT) is a method of teaching employees how to perform their job duties by having them learn directly through hands-on experience in the workplace. It involves training employees while they are performing their regular work tasks, rather than in a classroom or formal training setting.
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On-the-job training is cost-effective for organizations as it utilizes existing resources and avoids the expense of formal training programs.
OJT allows employees to learn job-specific skills and procedures in the actual work environment, making the training more relevant and applicable.
Effective on-the-job training relies on the expertise and teaching abilities of experienced workers who serve as trainers or mentors.
OJT can help new hires become productive more quickly by providing immediate, hands-on experience in their roles.
The success of on-the-job training often depends on the quality of the training materials, feedback, and support provided to the learner.
Review Questions
Explain how on-the-job training can benefit both the organization and the employee.
On-the-job training can benefit the organization by being a cost-effective way to develop employee skills and knowledge using existing resources. It allows new hires to become productive more quickly and helps ensure that employees learn job-specific procedures and techniques that are directly applicable to their roles. For the employee, OJT provides hands-on, relevant learning experiences that can accelerate their development and mastery of their job responsibilities.
Describe the role of experienced workers in effective on-the-job training programs.
Experienced workers play a crucial role in the success of on-the-job training programs. As trainers or mentors, they leverage their expertise and teaching abilities to guide and support the learning of less experienced employees. Effective OJT relies on these experienced workers to break down job tasks into steps, demonstrate proper techniques, and provide feedback and coaching to trainees as they practice in the actual work environment. The quality of the training and support provided by experienced workers is a key factor in the effectiveness of on-the-job training.
Evaluate the advantages and potential drawbacks of on-the-job training compared to more formal training approaches.
The primary advantage of on-the-job training is its cost-effectiveness, as it utilizes existing resources and avoids the expense of formal training programs. OJT also provides employees with immediately relevant, hands-on learning experiences in the actual work environment. However, potential drawbacks include the variability in the quality of training and support provided by experienced workers, as well as the risk of trainees developing bad habits or inefficient work practices if the training is not properly structured and supervised. Additionally, OJT may be less effective for teaching complex or conceptual skills that require more formal instruction. Therefore, the optimal approach often involves a blend of on-the-job training and more formal training methods to ensure comprehensive skill development.
Related terms
Job Instruction Training: A structured approach to on-the-job training that involves breaking down job tasks into steps, demonstrating the proper techniques, and having the trainee practice under supervision.
Apprenticeship: A training model where an experienced worker mentors a novice, passing on specialized skills and knowledge through hands-on learning in the workplace.
Mentorship: A developmental relationship where a more experienced or knowledgeable person guides and supports the growth and learning of a less experienced individual.