We have been running a lot of online training. Here are a few things we learned.
There’s so much written about online training I’m hesitant to wade in, but I was asked on LinkedIn.
It’s not so much tricks as just practice.
I’m more interactive than in the classroom, learned that from DrVu. Spend time at the start on chat and intros to establish connections.
3 hours is enough. We tried 4, we should have had more than a bio break.
I try to have less content and more discussion. Teach a few things well. But I think I need to go that way more in the classroom too, always seem to have too much.
Limit the fancy software tech, it’s just more learning, a distraction. If your audience is all from IT they might cope. A wider audience? Not so much. Just Zoom, and maybe one other simple tool. Not Slack or the complicated whiteboards. I tried funretro.io, it’s nice (thanks Evan Leybourn ). Google Doc is good too.
We use Logitech C920 camera/mics. The picture is great and the app is simple. We also have Yeti Blue mics, but in unscientific testing, people prefered the sound of the Logitech.
I have a retractable webcam mount made out of a $10 tripod so I can lower it to mid screen so I’m always looking at the camera.
And a custom-made selfie stick with Bluetooth remote and micro boom mic in the handle, for when we are on the move.
We are also experimenting with Kimifun wireless mics, but they have no earphones, just one way comms.
I have a small physical whiteboard laid flat on my desk with a second camera pointing down on it that I can use.
Cherry just uses paper and a Sharpie.
Start early, check the tech. I had the whiteboard camera upside down. Didn’t notice.
Have music to play when it goes quiet for an extended period so people dont worry. I use YouTube background music videos. On Zoom, Share Screen has an Advanced option where you can share only your computer sound.
We have run courses for dozens of people. You need two, the facilitator, and the technician to keep people muted, control entry, monitor chat… Or even 3 people: the facilitator, one for tech, and one for chat and support.
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