What is cross-training?
Cross-training is about learning how to do more than one specific job in order to become professionally well-rounded. Cross-training enables a staff member (the “visiting staff member”) to learn how to execute specific tasks by working with another staff member (the “receiving staff member”) for a set period of time. During cross-training, the receiving staff member teaches the visiting staff member about specific tasks related to their functions. Depending on the nature of the work, the visiting staff member will have the opportunity to actually carry out some of these tasks under the guidance of the receiving staff member. Please note that this is an informal learning option for staff to avail of as they wish based on the information and guidance below, not a centrally managed programme.
Cross-training allows the "visiting" staff member to be trained and preform specific functions related to a particular job while job shadowing allows the employee to gain knowledge and understating about the responsibilities and tasks in a particular job.
BENEFITS OF PARTICIPATING IN CROSS-TRAINING: | |
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Visiting staff members |
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Receiving staff members |
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Host section |
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Releasing section |
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Overall, cross-training allows the Organization to provide staff members with opportunities for continuous learning, contributing to improvements in organizational effectiveness and efficiency.
GUIDELINES: | |
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Eligibility | Staff eligible for participation in learning activities as per existing policy |
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Duration | The duration of cross-training is to be agreed between visiting/receiving staff and participating sections. It may be done on a full time, continuous basis or during dedicated working hours. Planned leave of the participating staff members should be taken into consideration when planning the schedule |
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Scope | Cross-training is possible:
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Learning objectives | Learning objectives should be agreed upon between the visiting staff and the host section, prior to commencement of the activity |
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Agreement of confidentiality | During cross-training, visiting staff members will be exposed to and be able to access information that may be confidential and/or legally privileged. Participating staff members are expected to respect the level of confidentiality |
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Prerequisites |
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Confirmation of understanding | The arrangement can be confirmed by an email including all of the staff concerned (visiting staff and host and releasing sections’ supervisors). The arrangement includes:
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Visiting staff are expected to return to their regular role and functions upon completion of the cross-training.