Virtual learning should never be an excuse to assign busywork, but should rather address clear engaging learning objectives- here are four key principles to provide a robust learning experience:
1. Create micro-learning options & break sessions into smaller chunks. Keep your participants wanting more!
2. Providing immediate (or at least frequent) feedback & knowledge checks. An example would be sharing comments on collaborative documents or in chat boxes to keep participants motivated and moving forward. This also serves as a test for understanding.
3. Provide clear expectations for virtual participation. Establish ground rules that the group agrees to and stick to these to keep everyone engaged and focused.
4. Include virtual platforms that will spice up your learning, such as live chats with guest speakers, or videos to maintain a human connection. It may be a little harder for participants to follow instructions when sessions are not face-to-face. With this in mind, try to keep instructions short, simple and clear. Have visual and audio information to help with the understanding. Consider making video instructions instead of text for something more complex.
