Cascading Knowledge

Cascading New Knowledge

I’m a big fan of cascade training. Not to make assumptions (because we all know what that means), but let me clarify what I mean if you’re not familiar with that term. First, cascade training is a series of training processes, each occurring as the result of the one before; a basic learning premise that has been around since we started walking (as humans and as a baby). Pretty simple, but there’s another aspect equally important. That aspect is: ‘Train-the-Trainer’. T3 (as it is often called) ensures that the instructors/trainers/teachers all have the right skills, knowledge and attitudes to effectively share the necessary deliverables for a successful experience. Not only is the content delivered in a ‘cascading’ manner, but the trainers are specifically trained to be effective.

There’s an old Greek saying (at least I believe it’s Greek) that goes something like: ‘As I teach, I learn.’ So T3 can be looked at as a beneficial, self-perpetuating cycle. This is where attitude plays a big role. Most of the trainers and teachers I’ve met over the years do it because they love it. It’s a default setting, they love sharing knowledge as much as they love learning. Think back to your experiences with learning in all formats (academic, corporate, recreational, etc.) it’s very obvious when you have an instructor that is NOT engaged or has a ‘check-the-box’ or doing it ‘because I have to’. Arguably, it can be harder to notice a check-the-box mentality in a purely online learning environment, but the signs are there. Is there a cadence in the communication, is it genuine, does the progression of training modules make sense - is it cascading?  Teaching with a check-the-box attitude is an easy way to disengage with your learners.

Engaging and deliberately building training opportunities in a cascading way also recognizes the greater ‘community’ structure so important in learning.  It’s important for the learners to not feel alone in their endeavor, whether it’s mandated or purely for the sake of learning something new. Knowing that there are others going through the same, and very likely having the same questions, give’s one a sense of belonging and place in the learning community.

I refer to this style of learning as ‘Baby Steps’. How would you walk from coast to coast (if you were so inclined to)? One-step at a time. Achieving any goal - you put in your mind to start with taking that first step. It’s easy to sabotage yourself (often unknowingly) to just think of the challenges or obstacles. Our attitude is a powerful force we can use to our benefit or detriment – the choice is ours!