If your organization is like most, you have a wealth of classroom courses that you would like to convert to virtual instruction. While this is clearly possible, it does take some effort. This blog entry and the two that follow will help you along your way.
After you analyze your existing face-to-face training assets and before you begin modifying your materials that you will use for your virtual instruction, you will need to answer a few questions.
With your analysis done and your Virtual Instruction Planning Form and current curriculum assets in hand, you can now begin modifying your face-to-face instructional materials to support virtual training. Here are a few strategies that will make your virtual classes resonate. While these strategies are particularly critical when you convert classroom training into a virtual instruction, they are also useful in preparing and enhancing any training class.
As the author of a book on virtual instruction, “Virtual Presentations that Work” 1, I have an obvious bias. Having said that, though, I am a pragmatist. There are going to be times when virtual training would not be the best way to go. There are definitely circumstances that call for the tried-and-true technique of in-person training. Here is a breakdown of times when you should consider virtual instruction, and times when you should not.
Attendees will not always be actively engaged in your virtual instruction. They may feel overworked, resent their boss’s making them attend your training, or not feel positive about your message in the first place. Either way, it is up to you to overcome their silence and resistance without further upsetting them. Here are some points to remember that might help you do so.
Many organizations have embraced web-based and blended training. The cost of paying instructors, renting training rooms, and the travel costs associated with getting 30 people in the same room is just too much to handle in today’s downsized environment.
