Virtual Learning Reflections

Last week I completed my first virtual learning experience overseeing a team delivering a leadership development programme to senior leaders from an international organisation. Two months ago the delivery team were requested to transform the programme which usually runs for 5 days, (8 hours/day) face-to-face into an online version of 5 days x 4.5 hour sessions using Microsoft Teams. The cohort was comprised of 30 senior leaders based in 10 countries, with 7 different time zones, it was quite a challenge!

In fact it turned out to be a great experience for all involved, with the feedback from the participants from the first day saying that they were 'pleasantly surprised' about how interactive the tool was.

As I reflected on the experience 5 key points stood out:

1. As a facilitator or speaker try to make contact with participants beforehand in order to make a personal connection.

2. Give groups plenty of time to discuss the questions which have been posed in any break out sessions, probably more time than normal.

3. Breaks - give short regular breaks every hour as well as an extended break in the middle of the session.

4. Break down learning subjects into small chunks (smaller than normal) and don't go into too much detail. A blended pathway can provide an opportunity to share more detailed/supporting materials

5. When break out groups give feedback in plenary try to avoid repetition, balance out the need to give an opportunity for all to respond, and not taking up too much time discussing much of what has been said already. Instead, after the first couple of rounds, ask groups to focus on any exceptions which haven't been raised previously.

I know that some will comment that this is not new, that these are practices which should already be happening in face-to-face sessions, and I agree totally. The virtual space brings further focus on them and hence the need to be even more mindful of them.

Further thoughts for future courses

• Think about ways for participants to meet and exchange prior to the formal part of the programme, in order to build up connections.
• Staring at a screen for 4.5 hours is tiring, especially for 5 days, think about how to break this up and find ways to get away during the rest of the day (walking was something I found useful).
• Refining the approach of speakers both in terms of content being delivered and tools used (Menti, Wooclap) - more focus on content, bringing in interactive elements but ensuring that the rhythm and flow is not disrupted.

As a learning professional this was a great learning journey which was made more rewarding due to the fantastic engagement of the participants and working with a great delivery team. If you would like to know any more details please don't hesitate to contact me.