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Training Design Tips |
Encouraging participation - Admittedly, it can be difficult to get folks to participate, however, it is also accepted that when people engage in classroom situations, learning improves. Below I've listed some suggestions to help stimulate participation in a class.
1. Create a comfortable and non-threatening environment. Brief class introductions are helpful to jump start participants.
2. Begin with a question. Keep in mind this first question is important because it will help set the tone of your program. In this regard, try to keep it somewhat subjective, and allow the class to express their opinions on the topic.
3. Use a conversational and relaxed tone. Use first names whenever possible. In general, we all like to hear our own name being spoken.
4. Understand that speaking up in class is quite difficult for most people.
5. Vary the way a question is asked. For example, ask class members to first jot down their thoughts on the question, and then discuss their answers in a group or with another.
6. Present several answers to a question (within the question itself). "Some believe this, but others feel that...". This can be less threatening and therefore easier to respond to.
7. Don't respond negatively when answers are offered. There is usually some wisdom in all answers, even the wrong ones. "Well, Bob, that's a good thought for these reasons ..., Are there other opinions about this?" I've often seen managers attempting to conduct a brainstorming session and fall into the trap of "shutting down" ideas they believe are not "on target". If you want folks to think "out of the box" you are going to have to acknowledge even the ideas that have little chance of making it in the box. People get the message when their idea doesn't make the flipchart.
8. When using slides, graphs, charts or other visuals, ask people what they see before telling them "The Answer".
9. Allow people to move around. Invite class members to present a slide, lead a group discussion or demonstrate a point. It is great if you can give up control of the class to some degree. Remember, one of the most effective ways to learn is to teach.
10. Build into the class interactive games and exercises. People like to play, and as long as you keep the game focus on the content, this type of engagement improves our ability to learn.
11. Leave time for questions at the end of your program. This seems obvious but is seldom done.
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