When conducting a train the trainer training programme, I am always looking for trainers who are inspirational, practical, innovative, good communicators and supportive of delegates. These are words I would use to describe the perfect trainer. In addition, I might add patient and keen to share new ideas just for good measure. For those who have been following Gok Wan’s latest BBC programme Clothes Roadshow, will have seen this master of fashion education demonstrating styling techniques that most of use wouldn’t have thought of in a million years.
This highly innovative show also has Mr Wan facilitating ‘style’ workshops where attendees can understand their body shape, correct dressing habits of a lifetime by trying on someone else’s unwanted clothes that better suit their body shape and therefore immediately apply the learning to their individual situation. It appears that most people are going home inspired having learned lessons which will last a life time.
I appreciate this is a TV programme; and we can’t always believe everything we see on TV. However, there is no getting away from it, Gok Wan and his programme is a fantastic example of innovative and creative experiential learning in action. From a development point of view the formula is perfect in every sense. Perhaps we should consider showing clips of it in train the trainer training programmes. Thank you Gok, you are not only a star at providing us with fashion education, entertainment and reminding us that ‘hands on’ learning always results in better results.
By Kasmin Cooney | Righttrack’s Managing Director