Jenny O'Farrell - Australian Pharmaceutical Industries (API)
How people could learn in small chunks and be actively invovled in learning - so - Jenny bought some virtual classroom software.
Jenny's learning philosophy - Winston Churchill: "Personally, I am always ready to learn, although I do not always like being taught."
Jenny recommends:
- virtual classrooms as part of a blended tool - initially she believes she over-used them...
- Before you run the first session - ensure the participants are comfortable with the systems...(good advice - even the most computer literate participants).
- Trainers need help to become Virtual Trainers - even voice control from acting classes (interesting idea)
- short sessions - with less than 10 participants....
- follow-up with any additional form of learning - or - use it as a follow up to a f2f session
- make it highly interactive with varied activities - learners need to be kept actively involved.
- use 2 computers sitting next to each other - then you can view what the participants are viewing ...(hmmm - not sure about this one...bit complex)
Where web-conferencing fails:
- assumption that the environment is the same as a real classroom
- lacking of training for presenters
- lack of time for participants'familiarity with the process
- technology and hardware problems - suggest logging on 30 minutes in advance
- lack of variety in presentations
- long sessions with little interactivity
- used as the only learning tool
Common mistakes and how to avoid them:
- do you really need a virtual classroom? Perhaps Skype is a good alternative....
- buying more licenses than you need
- keep IT informed!
- not allowing your audience to be really comfortable with the technology
- when purchasing, find out who offers technical and educational support and if it is included in the package
- takes a couple of hours to create a really good presentation
- trainers need lots more innovation than f2f
Great presentation session Jenny - highlighted some of the key resistance factors by not just the learners but also the trainers who aren't committed to online envirnments!
