<h2>The Three Cures for Engaging Training</h2>
1. Establish a Clear Leadership Structure
When running a session, avoid the chaos of having multiple people trying to lead simultaneously. Think of it this way: What democracy doesn't have two presidents? What company doesn't have two CEOs? Ditch the co-instructor format and instead designate one clear lead instructor supported by multiple aides.
The Role of the Lead Instructor
- The lead instructor must be responsible for being prompt and clear with what is next, avoiding unnecessary downtime, and keeping everything moving.
- If you have aides teaching, do not interrupt them or "add" to their discussion in front of the group. Let them own their segment.
2. Utilize Small Groups for Maximum Engagement
At some point, working with a large group turns into just herding sheep. Small groups are significantly more effective at discussion, keeping things moving, and speeding up the overall learning process.
Best Practices for Group Management
- Randomize and rotate the groups regularly. For simplicity, stick to basic numbering (1, 2, 3) rather than silly names or colors.
- Rotate aides and instructors for each group and topic. This ensures that participants get exposure to different teaching styles and interaction methods.
- Always conclude with a large group debrief. This is where you share what the small groups discussed and swap stories, reinforcing the learning points.
3. Create and Distribute a Specific Agenda
The biggest killer of momentum is uncertainty. You must have a detailed agenda before you start teaching.
Planning the Flow
- Know exactly what you are teaching, how much time you'll spend on it, and precisely what comes next. Avoid forcing people to sit and wait for you to figure out who is going to decide what to do next, when, and where.
Communicating the Schedule
- Write out the schedule and distribute it to all participants. Use clear, specific language: "At this time, we're doing X; at that time, we're doing Y." Be detailed, but also pad things with a little extra time.
Remember, participants will appreciate an early release over excessive time. Planning your transitions is key to maintaining momentum and keeping the energy positive!
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