What should a professionally produced training aid be compared against?

A professionally produced training aid should be evaluated against the desired lesson plan outcome because it is essential that the aid supports the specific objectives set out in the lesson plan. This alignment ensures that the training aid serves its intended purpose effectively and engages learners in a meaningful way. By comparing the aid against the intended outcomes, the instructor can assess whether the materials will enhance understanding, facilitate skill development, and ultimately lead to the successful achievement of the educational goals.

In contrast, evaluating the training aid based on cost per student use, prior instructors' materials, or available technology does not directly assess the effectiveness of the training in relation to the lesson objectives. While these factors can be important for logistical and administrative considerations, they do not directly correlate with the instructional impact and the success of the training session in achieving its learning outcomes. Therefore, focusing on the desired lesson plan outcome is crucial for ensuring that training aids are relevant and effective in facilitating learning.