TRANSITION FROM CLASSROOM TO VIRTUAL
Amazing experience
the first reaction was FEAR. Soon it got converted to an exciting experience of learning new tools & techniques
Since last 2-3 years, I wanted to shift to e-learning & virtual platform. However, I was lazy to do so. Thanks to the current situation that I was pushed to shift there 100% having no other option. Availability of free Zoom services made it further easy!
Yet, there was a question of disconnect with the audience. This is where Ajit Kamath was a great help. From him, I learnt excellent engaging tools & processes ot make the virtual training quite interesting & engaging
Advantages
There are numerous advantages of Online training. To name some of them...
- Cost effective
- Saves travel
- can offer more suitable time frame
Emotional Connect
The fear was that on Virtual platform, we may not be able to connect with the Learners effectively. Initially, that was true too. However, as we proceeded, we all learnt new methods for engagement and penetration of the learnings
Humans are humans -online or in-person
If we deal with them with respect, phycological safety giving space to them in thoughts, speech and listen to the carefully, they are equally satisfied in an virtual environment too
What May Change?
Duration
It's likely that the duration of the sessions will become smaller and smaller. From a full day session, it has come down to 2 Hrs. of 1.1/2 Hrs. and soon it may reach the level of 20 minutes
Size
Video size in GB may grow. we don't acre. But in duration, they should be as brief as possible. If the video is more than an hour, we decide to watch it later, which never comes. If it's 20 minutes, we watch only if the speaker is famous. Less than 3 minutes is attractive and less than 1 minute is always a welcome.
Distractions
Attention span of Learners is going drastically down due to numerous distractions around.
Besides, the screen size is too small. People can do multi-tasking out of the frame. Still better, they can mute voice, switch off the video and go for a walk.
Much more efforts are required to retain their attention. Subtle interesting methods are required to verify the attendance - are they there or not!
Methodology
Blended Learning is on the cards. A mix of class room, online and e-learning will be the most effective method.
Facilitation style will work the best. In this methodology, everyone will be involved and they have no options and desire to go for a walk
Make the Learners talk - is the new mantra
Result Counts
The days of tick mark trainings are almost over. The client will ask for tangible results. It has to be focused need based training and not a generalized topic based one.
Technology
Trainer will do better to learn some basic understanding of using the technology. They should know how to prepare nice Slides, the tools available on platforms like Zoom, Meet, Hangout.
The functions like Rename, Break Out Rooms etc, can be utilized for high impact.
It will be an advantage to learn Video editing. Understanding of sound quality, light effect etc. will add value.
Facilitators should be aware of various third party programs available, many of them free of cost. They should practice programs like Menti Meter, Mural, Miro, Kahoot, Padlet etc.
What Stops us?
I know - when the Facilitator believes that I am great and I know everything, their own learning stops and they deliver the session in obsolete way
When they focus more on sales and marketing rather than upskilling self by learning new skills
My experience at Association of Trainers is that most Trainers are under illusion that they are the best and they should get business. They lack the sales and marketing skills.
How to measure success of your online session?
Notice when people are not willing to leave and liner on. It means they enjoyed and want more.
Feedback with a time gap of 15-30-45 days is the most effective way to guage
Other Assessment tools, though they are bit expensive and till not so accurate
Analyze Self
Take help - Check Blind self areas
Have a Producer
4 Key Skills needed
Empathy
Relevant Technology
Art of asking Qs
Story Telling
Every problem makes you stronger. Pandemic forced on us new ways of learning. Now it is up to us to convert it in to advantage rather than crying about the ill effects.
Please send your feedback on WhatsApp 9920030412 or arun.chitlangia@gmail.com
