Which of the training methods is most appropriate when it is too costly or dangerous to train employees on the job?

The most appropriate training method when it is too costly or dangerous to train employees on the job is vestibule training. This approach involves training employees in a separate, controlled environment that mimics the actual work setting without exposing them to the risks that might be present on the job itself.

Vestibule training allows trainees to practice skills using the same equipment they would use on the job, helping to bridge the gap between theoretical learning and practical application. It is particularly effective for jobs where mistakes could lead to significant problems, such as safety hazards or equipment damage, thereby ensuring that employees gain hands-on experience without the associated risks of a live environment.

In contrast, on-the-job training places employees directly in the work environment, which is not suitable when safety or cost concerns are paramount. While simulation training also provides a risk-free environment, it may not always accurately replicate the exact conditions of the job. Classroom training, while useful for theoretical knowledge, does not provide the hands-on practice that vestibule training offers. Hence, vestibule training stands out as the most fitting approach under these circumstances.