Technology – By Keith Willis
The bar has been raised for designers and trainers
The landscape of virtual training changed significantly with the onset of COVID-19, marking a before and after in the world of online engagement.
In this context, when we refer to virtual engagement, we are discussing virtual workshops. These workshops have been significantly enhanced as platforms have broadened their functionalities, making it simpler for facilitators to leverage newly integrated tools.
Users have become adept at navigating these platforms, and meetings have become dynamic with features like polling, video sharing and breakout rooms. For trainers tasked with creating, developing and delivering these workshops, the bar has been raised, necessitating a higher level of proficiency and innovation.
Let’s look at instructional design components, tools to consider for engagement and flipping the classroom for interactive training.
Design Components for Effective Virtual Workshops
A successful virtual workshop lies in solid instructional design. Rather than transforming an instructor-led training (ILT) into a virtual format, it’s better to redesign. Employing a blended method is crucial when reimagining your approach.
Deliberately apply Diana Laurillard’s ABC learning design and the six learning types — acquisition, investigation, practice, discussion, collaboration and production — as you develop the workshop. It’s essential to strategically select the tools used before, during and post-session.
Additionally, devising a way to gauge behavioral changes during the workshop’s development phase is equally important.
Tools to Enhance Virtual Engagement
Enhancing interactivity in virtual spaces requires familiarity with the platform and its features. Below is a list of tools to consider for elevating engagement, though this collection is not exhaustive.
As you think through tools to utilize, the ABC learning design is a good taxonomy. You can place the activities into one of the six learning types that leads to design with purpose, which will strengthen the course.
- Poll Everywhere: This platform is regarded for its range of interactive features, including the ability to conduct polls, create word clouds and administer quizzes. Participants can easily interact using text responses or scanning QR codes. It incorporates seamlessly with slide presentations and at times can be used for free.
- Mentimeter: Known for enhancing engagement through its interactive Q&A setup, Mentimeter presents answers in an array of formats, word clouds being a popular one. This tool’s compatibility with Zoom adds to its appeal, and it’s often used at no cost. It simplifies audience participation, enabling responses through both smartphones and computers.
- Pigeonhole: This platform is suited for large virtual events including town halls. Moderators can sort and selectively display questions, helping to direct the discussion effectively.
- Miro: This collaborative tool is a top choice for organizations looking to foster brainstorming and team cooperation. Miro has an impressive array of tools, including digital sticky notes and extensive drawing tools, making it a robust resource for a wide range of collaborative activities.
- Padlet: This tool involves visual boards for organizing and sharing content. This is another great collaboration tool and has the flexibility to use text, audio, video, images and more.
Flip the Classroom
In the realm of modern education and training, the availability of digital tools presents an opportunity to “flip” the classroom.
This innovation involves shifting to the traditional model, where exposure to new material occurs through other resources. Participants initially absorb knowledge through diverse methods including e-learning modules, microlearning sessions, pre-read materials and instructional videos.
Once the groundwork is laid, the virtual classroom becomes an arena for active learning and application with case studies, class discussions and simulations. By strategically combining asynchronous learning tools with synchronous virtual classroom activities, trainers can create a rich, multifaceted educational experience that caters to the needs of today’s diverse learner base.
Conclusion
The evolution of virtual training, hastened by the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, altered the landscape of online learning. Through careful instructional design incorporating various learning types, the utilization of engaging tools and the strategic employment of the flipped classroom model, trainers can design virtual workshops that are both effective and engaging.
As we navigate the nuances of virtual learning environments, the key will be to remain agile and embrace innovation, while staying connected to the evolving needs of learners.
Keith Willis is president of Core Management Training. Email Keith at kwillis@coremanagementtraining.com or connect with him through linkedin.com/in/keithawillis.
