ASTD Master Trainer™ Program FAQs

Where does the ASTD Master Trainer Program™ sit on the professional development spectrum?
The ASTD Master Trainer Program™ is a new offering from ASTD created at the request of training professionals. It sits on the spectrum of professional development between an ASTD certificate program and the Certified Professional in Learning and Performance® credential.
What is the unique value of the ASTD Master Trainer™ Program?
Based on requests from both individual and corporate members, the ASTD Master Trainer Program™ is a unique combination of a training event and an assessment component. The program consists of three distinct parts giving participants the opportunity to tailor their learning, including an online Orientation, Core Course, and Online Elective. This program helps participants not only develop or strengthen their professional knowledge and skills, but also requires them to prove their ability and confirm their credibility in delivering engaging and effective training.
Are there any prerequisites?
There are no prerequisites required.
May I get a discount as an ASTD member?
Yes, as an ASTD member you save $300 on the program. We continue to offer our members the lowest price possible.
If I attend in full will I pass the program?
While passing the program is not guaranteed, ASTD is committed to your success. Our expectation is that participants will bring significant dedication and effort to the experience in order to achieve foundational mastery in the program’s concepts.
Can I study prior to the Knowledge Test and Skill Demonstration?
Yes, during the Orientation you will have pre-work/reading, which will help prepare you not only for the Core Course, but for the Knowledge Test and Skill Demonstration as well.
When will I know the results of the Knowledge Test and Skill Demonstration?
Participants will know the results of their Knowledge Test and Skill Demonstration by the end of the Core Course, the four-day face-to-face training. Participants who successfully pass the Knowledge Test and Skill Demonstration can move directly into the final component of the program, the Online Elective. Participants who do not pass the Knowledge Test and Skill Demonstration may choose to redo one or both components before moving on to the Online Elective.
What if I don’t pass either the Knowledge Test or Skill Demonstration? Participants will have one opportunity to retake either or both the Knowledge Test and Skill Demonstration.

Knowledge Test
If they do not pass the original Knowledge Test, participants will have the option to complete a make-up Knowledge Test at the end of the Core Course on-site.

Skill Demonstration If they do not pass the original Skill Demonstration, participants can choose from one of three ways to deliver a second presentation. Choices include:
- Join another Core Course, Day 4, to participate in the Skill Demonstration.
- Film and submit an example of their delivery in their workplace (must be an authentic delivery with live participants).
- Arrange for an ASTD expert facilitator to observe a training delivery using video conference technology (must be an authentic delivery with live participants).
How long do I have to complete the entire program?
ASTD estimates that it should take approximately three to four months to complete the entire program. Keep in mind that this is a blended learning experience consisting of three parts: an online Orientation, Core Course, and Online Elective. The Orientation, which is self-directed, is accessible three weeks prior to the program, the Core Course takes place over four days via an in-person training, and then you choose an elective from a predetermined list of ASTD online certificate programs. How long it takes to complete the elective course depends on scheduling (for example, when the program will be offered). Upon successful completion of all components, participants will receive their ASTD Master Trainer™ certificate in the mail.
What does successfully completing the ASTD Master Trainer™ Program really mean?
This means that you have successfully demonstrated a foundational mastery in the core concepts associated with delivering training, including assessment, preparation, creating a positive learning environment, facilitating learning, and evaluating learning. All participants who successfully complete the program receive an ASTD Master Trainer™ certificate.
What are the differences between ASTD’s Certificate Programs, the ASTD Master Trainer Program™, and the Certified Professional in Learning and Performance® (CPLP®)?
The ASTD Master Trainer Program™ is an enhanced certificate program, based specifically in depth on one Area of Expertise (AOE) in the ASTD Competency Model, delivering training. This unique program is a combination of a training event and assessment component; offering instructional guidance to participants needing to develop or strengthen their foundational mastery in delivering engaging and effective training. The ASTD Master Trainer Program is a great way for professionals to prove their ability in this one area of expertise.

The CPLP® is a comprehensive workplace learning and performance certification, based on a breadth of all nine AOEs in the ASTD Competency Model. CPLP® credentialing represents a level of professional achievement and competence. Just as important, achieving the credential demonstrates proficiency in support of learning and organizational performance and sets a standard of commitment to the learning and development profession. Becoming CPLP® certified makes you a leader as well as a role model in the learning and development community.

ASTD Master Trainer™ Program FAQs

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