Virtual facilitation can be a useful tool in the L&D arsenal for training sessions that can be scalable and accessible to all. It requires a different set of skills to ensure that students can engage in productive conversations with their peers. This article explores 10 principles for energizing online facilitation, so that trainers can effectively conduct sessions online.
Similar to any workshop setting, the facilitator sets the tone for the session by demonstrating positive communication habits and creating a positive atmosphere. This includes avoiding distracting sounds and ensuring that the camera is focused on the person in front, giving positive feedback signals such as smiling and nodding, and keeping the conversation short and clear. It also involves ensuring that there is a balance between sharing information and group discussion, as well as interactive activities like short polls or games that are experiential. Encourage participants to engage in conversation during the workshop and to use game-based response systems such as Kahoot to engage them.
Being aware of the mood of the group is always important in a gathering, but it’s more vital when facilitating remotely. Be sure to check in with your participants regularly to determine how they’re experiencing and whether any technical or other issues affect the group. You may need to add a new game to boost the energy levels of the group if levels start to drop.
Using a platform such as SessionLab to plan and design your remote workshops will help you ensure that your sessions are productive and enjoyable, even when you’re not in the same room with your participants! With a library of over 1000 of the most effective facilitation techniques as well as a set of fully-featured templates as well as built-in tools that can reduce distractions and cross-talking It’s a fantastic choice for online meetings and workshops.
