Three Cognitive Biases in Training Strategy

A cognitive bias is a systematic error in thinking that occurs when people are processing and interpreting information and affects their decisions and judgments. It’s often a result of our brain’s attempt to simplify information processing.

Let’s see some cognitive biases and how they can influence our training strategies:

Information Bias

“More information will help me make a better decision” – on a superficial level, it seems to make sense. But more information is not synonymous with better or more relevant information. Those who believe that the earth is flat process a lot of “information” – but not necessarily to high-quality information. Make sure that you choose quality over quantity for your training programs.

Confirmation Bias

Psychologists and neuroscientists have discovered that humans do not necessarily read to expose themselves to new opinions, but rather to confirm their personal opinions. This is why social networks created bubbles in which people with similar outlooks on life seek validation for their own opinions instead of trying to understand how others think. Make sure that you keep an open mind when you design a training program or a new course.

Loss Aversion

Loss aversion is all about being able to take risks. For some, the pain of losing something they already have is stronger than the joy of gaining something new. Needless to say, always staying on the safe side will hardly ever bring new opportunities. Doing things differently and taking reasonable risks might be the best way to find the right opportunities – so be bold and step outside the box when you create a new course!

It is difficult or almost impossible to overcome all of these cognitive biases; some of them could be deeply enshrined in our thinking. Keep in mind that if “perception is reality” for you, it is the same for those around you. So make sure that you listen carefully and include the others in the conversation. Their perceptions are equally important and valuable.