Risk communication training

At RSI, as with our risk assessment and risk management training, our risk communication training is divided into two. Our ‘umbrella’ turn-key courses are designed for busy professionals who need to have risk training in all three aspects of risk: understanding, managing and communicating. Additionally, RSI develops client-specific risk communication training designed to build that organization’s capacity to develop and implement its own risk communication processes and output.

In the case of personalized communication training, the following describes a typical RSI course development process.

Developing and delivering a risk communication training program requires a multi-faceted approach. The program aims to equip stakeholders, such as employees or community advocates, with the necessary skills and knowledge to understand, interpret, and effectively communicate risk-related information. Here is how one might go about this process:

The first step is to conduct a comprehensive needs assessment to identify what specific risk communication skills and knowledge gaps exist within the communicator group. Surveys, focus groups, and one-on-one interviews can provide valuable insights.

Based on the needs assessment, a curriculum is developed that covers essential topics like risk identification, risk assessment methodologies, ethical considerations in risk communication, and effective strategies for public engagement. The curriculum includes a mix of theoretical and practical modules.

To ensure the credibility and relevance of the training content, when necessary, subject matter experts are consulted or even involved in developing and delivering the training material.

Educational materials are created with pedagogical considerations in mind. This could involve PowerPoints, handouts, case studies, and interactive scenarios that encourage active learning. Care is taken to present complex ideas in a manner that’s accessible to the intended audience.

Depending on the audience and context, different training modalities may be used. These could range from in-person workshops and seminars to online courses, webinars, or a hybrid model that combines various formats.

Before full-scale implementation, a pilot test is conducted with a smaller audience. This allows for real-time feedback and adjustments to the curriculum, delivery method, or instructional materials as needed.

Once finalized, the training program is rolled out to the intended audience. Trainers with subject-matter expertise and effective communication skills are selected to deliver the program. If the program is online, a user-friendly and reliable platform is chosen for hosting the training modules.

Throughout the training program, ongoing evaluations are conducted to gauge participant understanding and retention. Quizzes, assignments, and interactive discussions could serve as evaluation metrics.

After the training is completed, feedback is collected from participants to assess the effectiveness of the training program in meeting its objectives. This can help identify areas for improvement in future iterations.

Participants who successfully complete the training program may be awarded certificates, should the client wish it. A follow-up mechanism, such as a refresher course or a community of practice, could be instituted to encourage ongoing learning and application of skills.

Post-training, ongoing monitoring and evaluation take place to assess the impact of the training on actual risk communication practices. This could involve tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) related to risk communication within the organization or community.

In summary, by following this structured approach, RSI can develop and deliver a risk communication training program that is not only informative but also impactful. Such a program aims to build the capacity of the targeted audience to communicate risk in a clear, ethical, and effective manner, ultimately leading to better risk management outcomes.