Training of trainers (ToT)
In this section we look at the qualities that are required for media training. We discuss how to carry out a training needs assessment, the basic requirements for media training, and the rules for delivering training. This section also looks at how to draw up a training plan and create your own journalism training course. There are interactive elements to help those who are planning to train trainers, along with advice for carrying out a training impact assessment.
Identifying training needs for journalists
When journalists fail to file a story it can sometimes reveal skill gaps. This exercise illustrates what editors hear and which training might fix the problem.
The qualities required for media training
A trainer must not shout at participants or get into loud arguments. They must not make those attending their courses feel small or humiliate them.
Training needs assessment
Thorough research is the essential if you are to deliver high-impact media training. Never accept a brief from media managers without question - they could be wrong and often are.
Media training requirements
For international media training to be successful, tried, tested and proven case studies from a similar region are needed.
Basic rules for delivering training
One of the first steps in delivering training is to articulate the ground rules. Participants need to know what to expect and what is expected of them
Designing a media training plan
A well-designed media training plan could make the difference between the success and the failure of a media business.
International media training
Those invited to help the media overseas need to ensure that the training they offer is continually refreshed in order to stay relevant and useful.
Build your own journalism training course
Editors who want to improve their news output and raise the professionalism of their staff now have access to free training materials.
Developing the potential of your staff
Media training is about investing in people - your staff. They are your most precious resource.
Evaluating the impact of training
The evaluation process for media training is set in motion the moment you are engaged by the media organisation you are being asked to help.
Hiring and developing staff
Hiring the right journalists is one of the most critical decisions senior newsroom managers make. The following guide is designed to help editors choose the right candidates.
Improving media assistance
Media assistance is a two-way process in which providers have as much to learn as they have to give, according to those on the receiving end.
Organisations supporting independent media
We have compiled a list of organisations that offer operational, strategic, and financial/business support for independent media, helping outlets survive, grow, and enhance their impact.
What it takes to be a media trainer
Media trainers must have recent, valid experience of all they teach. They will not earn the respect of course participants if they can't relate to the issues they face.
Wanted, your media know-how
Have you got any journalism expertise that you are willing to share with others? If so, please get in touch.
Related learning resources
Lesson: SMART objectives for training
This lesson plan is designed to teach how to apply SMART objectives to training programmes for journalists and media managers.
It's based on the article...
Lesson: Gap analysis for training
This lesson plan is designed to help participants understand the importance of carrying out 'gap analysis when designing a training of trainers (ToT) course.
Tool: Learning management systems
Learning Management Systems (LMS) are increasingly becoming the digital backbone of all media training, in particular Training of Trainers (ToT) courses.
Tool: Optimism index for media trainers
The 'Optimism Index' is a tool designed for trainers of group journalism sessions to gauge and ultimately improve the participants' hope for the future.
Tool: Evaluation and Impact Assessment
Training should always be judged by its effectiveness, and there are several tools for measuring success. The following is to evaluate the assess the impact of the training.
Tool: Delivering trauma training
Discussing trauma can trigger emotional responses in participants, so it is vital to lead training sessions with a mix of professional advice and empathy.
Tool : Training timetable planner
This sample training timetable helps trainers download and adapt MHM lesson outlines for their own specific needs. Ideal for customising your teaching plans.
Tool: Training of Trainers (ToT)
Training of Trainers (ToT) courses are designed to equip individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to train others.
Tool: SMART objectives for media training
Those delivering media training need to focus on SMART objectives, which are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, time-bound.
Tool: Gap analysis in media training
'Gap analysis' is an essential part of any 'training of trainers' (ToT) programme because it helps identify the specific needs of participants.
Module: Delivering training for media professionals
This free educational module provides an outline for teaching senior journalists the skills needed for developing and delivering effective training for media professionals.
Refresher: Delivering training for media professionals
This intensive one-day course offers senior journalists and media professionals a rigorous refresher on the core skills necessary to become effective Trainers of Trainers (ToT).