The Successful Virtual Classroom

Book description

Virtual training gives learning professionals unprecedented flexibility, making it possible to reach participants globally and unite physically dispersed teams. But designers and facilitators must adapt their programs and delivery styles in order to be effective in this new medium. The Successful Virtual Classroom goes beyond introducing the technology, to offer trainers proven techniques tailored specifically to engage live online audiences.

Packed with easy-to-use tools, checklists, and worksheets—as well as case studies from Oracle, UPS, and more—the book introduces the PREP model for planning, rehearsing, executing, and then conducting a post mortem following the training event. Readers will learn how to:

Make the most of virtual classroom features such as content and screen sharing,annotation tools, polls, and breakout rooms • Weave chat responses into the discussion • Compensate for the absence of body language • Monitor feedback • Engage individuals with different learning styles • Encourage audience contribution • Meet the unique needs of global participants • And more

Featuring icebreakers and interactive exercises designed for an online environment, this book helps readers create programs that truly drive learner engagement.

Table of contents

  1. Cover
  2. Title
  3. Copyright
  4. Contents
  5. Foreword: Unlocking the Mysteries of Flawless Virtual Training by Karen Hyder
  6. Preface: What Is Virtual Classroom Training?
  7. SECTION I GETTING STARTED
    1. 1 Introduction
    2. An Endorsement of Virtual Learning
      1. How Virtual Training Compares to Other Types of Training
      2. When to Use Virtual Classroom Training
      3. Benefits of Virtual Classroom Training
      4. The PREP Model
      5. Key Terms
      6. Case Studies
      7. References
    3. 2 Key Features of a Virtual Classroom
      1. Eight Common Features
      2. Facilitator and Participant Use of Key Virtual Classroom Features
      3. Sample Interactions with Virtual Classroom Features
      4. Other Features
      5. Conclusion
      6. References
    4. 3 Getting Started
      1. Step 1: Participate in Tutorials and Gather Information
      2. Step 2: Get Hands-On Experience
      3. Step 3: Experience the Virtual Classroom as a Participant
      4. Step 4: Hold a Low-Stakes Virtual Classroom Session
      5. Not New, Just Using a New Virtual Classroom Tool
      6. Conclusion
      7. Continuous Learning
      8. References
  8. SECTION II THE PREP MODEL
    1. 4 The Virtual Classroom Team and the Members’ Roles
      1. Composition of Virtual Classroom Teams
      2. Common Key Roles
      3. Location of Facilitation Team
      4. Location of Learners
      5. A Team of One
      6. Conclusion
      7. Continuous Learning
      8. References
    2. 5 Developing Virtual Classroom Training
      1. Analysis
      2. Design
      3. Developing Materials
      4. Learning and Personality Styles
      5. Gamification in the Virtual Classroom
      6. Use Cases
      7. Continuous Learning
      8. References
    3. 6 Facilitation Techniques
      1. The Secret to Sustained Engagement
      2. Working Effectively with a Producer
      3. Focus on Your Voice and Pace
      4. Make Up for the Absence of Body Language
      5. Scan the Entire Screen
      6. How to Facilitate Like a Pro Using Virtual Classroom Features
      7. Record Yourself and Improve
      8. Conclusion
      9. Continuous Learning
      10. References
    4. 7 Putting It All Together with the PREP Model
      1. The PREP Model
      2. Continuous Learning
  9. SECTION III FINE-TUNING
    1. 8 Working with Global Participants
      1. Consider the Needs of Global Participants
      2. Collect Audience Information
      3. Skills of the Global Virtual Facilitator
      4. Adjusting Content and Exercises
      5. Adjusting the Use of Virtual Classroom Features for Global Participants
      6. Rehearsing
      7. Conclusion
      8. Continuous Learning
      9. References
    2. 9 Ideas for Icebreakers and Exercises
      1. Icebreakers
      2. Exercises
      3. Other Simple Ways to Add Interactivity
      4. Continuous Learning
    3. 10 Additional Uses for the Virtual Classroom
      1. Using the Virtual Classroom for Knowledge Sharing
      2. Using the Virtual Classroom to Support a Community of Practice
      3. Understand the Challenges Presented by the Use of Mobile Technology
      4. Continuous Learning
  10. APPENDIXES
    1. A Glossary of Virtual Classroom Terms
    2. B Virtual Classroom Vendors
    3. C Feature List to Consider When Selecting a Virtual Classroom Tool
    4. D Virtual Classroom Resources
    5. E Example of Course Conversion
    6. F Webcam Tips
    7. G Rehearsal Feedback Form
    8. H PREP Model Checklist
  11. Index
  12. About the Author
  13. Free Sample Chapter from Training That Delivers Results by Dick Handshaw

Product information

  • Title: The Successful Virtual Classroom
  • Author(s): Darlene Christopher, Karen Hyder
  • Release date: October 2014
  • Publisher(s): AMACOM
  • ISBN: 9780814434291