The image to the right shows the results of a study by the NTL in Maine, USA. It indicates that the lecture sits at the top of the Learning Pyramid with ~5% effectiveness, along with other 'Passive Delivery Methods' which score low.
Participatory Delivery Methods, sit at the broad base of the pyramid and are, in general terms, proven to be much more effective approaches to learning.
While the actual figures are debateable, and the methods would inevitably move up or down the pyramid depending on the topic, its a good rule of thumb to bear in mind.
Of course, choosing the right methods will depend on the topic of the course and what your Learning Objectives are, so the
next pages Training Methods and Techniques page will give you some new ideas and techniques that you can use to engage your learners in a way which will enable you to achieve your Learning Objectives, and be much more fun in the process!
