Challenge #1: Introducing tools to technology-challenged participants
- Use a 2-person (producer) model to ensure participation - from both technology-challenged participants and from those who may be multi-tasking
- Consider developing a self-paced tutorial ("Learning to learn online") to help prepare participants for the synchronous learning experience
- Create a job aid on how to log in to the web classroom
- Display a rotating PowerPoint as participants log in to help direct them to necessary tools in the classroom
- Launch a lobby exercises activity to get participants practicing with the tools
- Do "virtual yoga" - hands up, hands down, etc.
Challenge #2: Engaging activities that aren't too complicated
- Have participants use an arrow (where available) to claim their place on the white board, then type their text answer next to the arrow
- Have participants type their name into the chat box - for both attendance and practice
- For those with teleconference issues: don't provide teleconference numbers to force participants to use the "call back" option
- For those who have a group of participants on a single computer logging in - assign roles so everyone feels involved, use breakout groups in the live classroom, try to simulate the webinar
- To ensure participants are following along during audio, outline audio track and have participants follow with their arrows
- Distribute a participant guide to engage participants during session
- Use the 'chat' area to capture action planning (start, stop, continue)
- When the breakout feature is not available in the platform, split the whiteboard into sections and break participants out on the teleconference line
- Use a "timed chat" approach - have participants type their answer, but do not hit enter until facilitator says "Go". This allows everyone to participate, particularly when many may come up with the same response.
- If you need a timer during your session, consider using Application Share with the hahntech timer tool
- To add more interactivity, use an asynchronous tool (articulate, etc.) and import the .swf into the web classroom
Challenge #3: Transitioning classroom instructors into synchronous learning facilitators
- Develop a "how to" guide using examples of classroom v. synchronous
- Have a producer or other support during session
- Prepare facilitator for pacing in the virtual classroom (e..g., being comfortable with silence)
- Create leader's guides or scripts for both the facilitator and the producer
- Reinforce the language of the environment (e.g., "Use the green checkmark if you agree.")
- Have facilitators model the tools to increase participants understanding/comfort level
- Have a training process for new facilitators (watch session, review leaders guide, practice, trial session with backup, then on own)
- Ensure facilitators get enough practice using the platform before leading a session
Challenge #4: Making sessions engaging
- Activities! (See examples above)
- Graphics
- Use slide sorter to advance slides out-of-sequence. Create a game-show feel.
- Provide opportunities for participant feedback in the facilitator script
- Call on participants that have not been engaged for a while
- Use feedback icons and have producer follow up with those not participating to ensure engagement / no technology issues
Challenge #5: Time management in the virtual classroom
- Keep on topic - facilitator keeps participants in check, producer keeps facilitator in check
- Use a script
- Use a parking lot (chat or notes or Q&A section, depending on platform)
- Producer can send chat to facilitator keeping them on topic/on time
Special thanks to the other session facilitators - Mira Mendlovitz, Ernie Brescia & Sarah Schmidt- for sharing their expertise!
Other ideas? Feel free to type them as a comment to this blog post. Also, if you're a member of the eLearning Guild, there are two free eBooks available on tips for synchronous learning you may want to review.
