Top Tips for Instructors: Teaching Workplace Violence Prevention
Introduction
If you’re familiar with our work here at CPPS, you know that instruction is a core part of our business model. Teaching individuals about workplace violence prevention is crucial, and today, I want to share some instructional techniques that you can use when teaching your team, whether they are frontline staff or leaders. These tips are particularly relevant for those pursuing our Workplace Violence Instructor Certification.
Drawing from Experience
One of the most effective ways to enhance your teaching is by drawing from personal experience. During my time in the Air Force, I was trained through a rigorous process to become a qualified instructor. Initially, as a new instructor, I focused heavily on meeting objectives and requirements, but I soon realized the importance of relatability.
When you can share experiences that align with your learners’ daily roles, it makes the instruction more impactful. For example, when teaching pilots about evasion techniques, relating the material to their experiences in the cockpit made the training more relevant and memorable. The same principle applies to workplace violence prevention. If you have experiences that your learners can relate to, use them to illustrate key points and make the training more engaging.
Engaging Your Audience
People learn best when they are actively engaged. This involves more than just listening to a lecture; it’s about participating in discussions and practical applications. When teaching workplace violence prevention, encourage interaction through open-ended questions and thought-provoking discussions. This not only keeps learners engaged but also helps them internalize the material better.
For instance, during a training session, instead of just explaining the protocols for handling a violent situation, ask your audience how they would react in a specific scenario. Facilitate a discussion and guide them towards the correct procedures. This method not only reinforces the learning objectives but also empowers the learners to think critically and apply their knowledge practically.
Relating Content to Real-Life Applications
To make your instruction effective, always keep the end-user in mind. This means tailoring your content to be directly applicable to their roles and responsibilities. When teaching workplace violence prevention, think about how the information will be used by your learners in their daily activities.
For example, if you’re teaching frontline leaders about recognizing early warning signs of violence, provide examples that they might encounter in their work environment. Discuss real-life scenarios and how the principles you’re teaching can be applied. This approach ensures that the training is not only informative but also practical and actionable.
Utilizing Interactive Techniques
Interactive techniques such as role-playing and hands-on activities can significantly enhance the learning experience. These methods allow learners to practice what they’ve learned in a controlled environment, which helps to solidify their understanding and build confidence.
During a workplace violence prevention training, you might simulate a violent incident and have learners practice the appropriate response. This not only reinforces the theoretical knowledge but also provides practical experience in handling real-world situations. Interactive learning is particularly effective in fields like workplace violence prevention, where quick thinking and decisive action are crucial.
Tailoring Your Approach
Every group of learners is different, and it’s essential to tailor your approach to meet their specific needs. This involves understanding their background, experience level, and learning preferences. For instance, when teaching highly intelligent and experienced professionals, such as fighter pilots, you might focus more on facilitating discussions and problem-solving rather than traditional lecturing.
In the context of workplace violence prevention, this could mean adapting your training methods based on whether you’re working with security personnel, administrative staff, or senior management. Each group will have different perspectives and needs, and your ability to customize your approach will make your instruction more effective.
Conclusion
Teaching workplace violence prevention is a vital responsibility that requires a strategic and empathetic approach. By drawing from personal experiences, engaging your audience, relating content to real-life applications, utilizing interactive techniques, and tailoring your approach, you can enhance the effectiveness of your instruction.
At CPPS, we are committed to helping you succeed in your instructional endeavors. Whether you’re part of our Workplace Violence Instructor Certification program or conducting awareness training for your organization, we are here to support you. For more information and resources, visit CPPS.com, sign up for our newsletter, and check out our YouTube channel.
Stay informed, stay safe, and keep learning!
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About the Author: Jake Newton, Chief Operations Officer
Jake Newton is a dedicated security professional with 15 years of experience, currently serving as the Chief Operations Officer at CPPS. He began his career in 2008 with New York State, assisting Park Rangers in managing conduct for over 80,000 visitors. Prior to joining CPPS in 2014, Jake served as a U.S. Air Force SERE Specialist, training thousands of high-risk government personnel for crisis survival globally.
At CPPS, Jake oversees all administrative and operational functions, ensuring the highest standards of safety and security training. He has trained thousands across major U.S. organizations in violence prevention, active assailant survival, hostage survival, de-escalation, and situational awareness, and has consulted with numerous Fortune 1000 companies to develop comprehensive security programs.
Jake also volunteers in Spokane, WA, overseeing the safety and security of a large faith-based ministry. He holds a B.S. in Business, Education, and Health Sciences from Liberty University and an M.A. in Global Security from Arizona State University. Additionally, Jake is a member of the FBI National Citizens Academy Alumni Association, further highlighting his commitment to security and community service.
