Writing a training plan

Thinking through the training and development that you need is key to your development as a researcher. This process is often known as a Training Needs Analysis (TNA) and will commonly be supported by a formal process using forms and meetings with your supervisor. Once you have completed this thinking you will be able to create a plan detailing the training and development opportunities you need.

A Training Needs Analysis is an examination of the skills you need in order to complete a particular task. For example if you are giving a poster presentation at a conference you might break this down in the following way.

Training needs analysis of giving a poster presentation

• Discipline specific skills: to undertake the research
• Inter-personal and presentation skills: to present the poster
• Networking skills: to make the most of the opportunity of attending the conference
• Graphic design and writing skills: to produce the poster.

Your Training Needs Analysis should be informed by a self-audit and by the advice given to you by your supervisor and peers. Having an effective training plan is one of the things that will enable you to complete your doctorate on time and with a minimum of stress. So it is worth investing time in planning and putting aside some regular time to review progress and amend your plan.

What does a training plan look like?

A training plan is a document which sets out the skills that you wish to develop. Your university may have a particular format that they want you to communicate your analysis and planning in and it is important to find out. However, any training plan should include clear and achievable targets stating deadlines for completing different training activities. It should also detail where you are going to access particular training and development opportunities from. A training plan should be personal and based on your own self-analysis and should be more than a commitment to attend a series of courses offered by your university.

• Identifying training aims
• Planning your training
• Reviewing your training