This document discusses three theories of training: reinforcement theory, goal-setting theory, and expectancy theory. Reinforcement theory states that behavior is influenced by its consequences, such as positive or negative reinforcement or punishment. Goal-setting theory proposes that goals regulate behavior and should be clear, challenging, and supplemented with sub-goals. Expectancy theory posits that people are motivated to behaviors they believe will lead to favorable outcomes. The document was prepared by Manu Melwin Joy of Ilahia School of Management Studies in Kerala, India.

1. Theories of training

2. Prepared By
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Manu Melwin Joy
Assistant Professor
Ilahia School of Management Studies
Kerala, India.
Phone – 9744551114
Mail – manu_melwinjoy@yahoo.com

3. Theories of Training
1. Reinforcement theory
2. Goal-setting theory
3. Expectancy theory

4. Reinforcement theory (Skinner, B.F.)
A. The frequency of behavior is
influenced by its
consequences.
B. Three major types of
consequences:
– Positive reinforcement:
reward desirable behavior.
– Negative reinforcement:
withhold punishments to
force the adoption of
desirable behavior.
– Punishment: punish
undesirable behavior.

5. Goal-setting theory (Locke, E. A)
A. One’s conscious goals or
intentions regulate his/her
behavior.
B. Three important implications
for motivating trainees:
– The learning objective should
be conveyed clearly to the
trainees.
– Training goals should be
difficult enough to challenge
the trainees and satisfy their
needs.
– The final goal should be
supplemented with periodic
sub-goals during training.

6. Expectancy theory (Victor Vroom)
A. One will be motivated to chose a
behavior alternative that is most
likely to have favorable
consequences.
B. Key concepts:
– Outcome: the result of a certain
behavior.
– Valence: perceived value of the
outcome.
– E (effort) →P (performance)
expectancy: the amount of effort
for a certain level of performance.
– P (performance) → O (outcome)
expectancy: the probability that
improved performance will lead to
desirable outcome.