"how would you present training material in a manner that facilitates retention? "

I would present training material in a manner which would make it interesting and stress hands-on actually learning by doing.For example, to teach someone how to conduct geological mapping, I would first give them all the equipment they needed to do such mapping including geological hammer, Brunton compass, an aluminum clipboard to hold the maps in and the clear combined protractors and scales, mechanical pencil, magnet, rock scratcher, dilute HCL if near limestone or marble, a fluorescent cruiser vest, a hand held GPS and a topographic map as a base with translucent mylar overlays to draw the actual mapping on and safety boots and if in an open pit, or near equipment, a hard hat. Then I would make sure they knew how to use all these things and ensure the Brunton was set for the correct declination. Then and only then when they demonstrated sufficient proficiency in the use of this equipment, would I commence showing them how to map.