Photo by: Min An via Pexels
“You’ve got to start big and finish big!” I’m not sure where I first heard this expression but it’s one of my favorites! I like to incorporate this motto into all my presentations, webinars, and training sessions. As many of us have transitioned to the virtual classroom, let’s focus on how to end your virtual sessions on a high note! I’ve seen blogs and other social media posts on how to engage learners right from the start. But how do you ensure they also leave the session feeling inspired, reflective, and motivated?
Think of each virtual session within a workshop as a chapter in a book. Each chapter may end differently, perhaps with a cliffhanger, a new piece of evidence, or the conclusion of the storyline. But the one thing a chapter will never do is end mid-sentence. Each chapter ends with a complete thought. With that in mind, let’s design each virtual session so our learners draw connections and leave with a sense of accomplishment, eager to put their new skills and knowledge to work.
In our Maximizing Engagement in the Virtual Classroom workshop, we share a variety of creative techniques on how to end each virtual session on a high note. For example, if it’s a multi-session workshop, we like to build momentum for the next session. This can be done by sharing a preview or “trailer” of what is coming up next. I might say, “Great work today. Stay tuned for tomorrow where we’ll address one of your top priorities, how to handle difficult behaviors in the classroom.”
We also encourage our learners to share their key learning takeaways and call them to action. Here are our top five strategies (plus a bonus strategy!) to make this happen:
3-2-1
End a session by having learners share three things they didn’t know before the session, two things that surprised them about the session, and one thing they will implement right away. Learners can share using a whiteboard, separate chat pods, or verbally.
Pack Your Bags
Share a visual of some luggage on the screen. Learners must share one thing they will “pack” (implement) before the session can end. Learners can share using a whiteboard or verbally.
45-Second Countdown
Separate the group into two teams via breakout rooms. Each team must brainstorm as many key words/concepts as they can recall from the session. The team with the longest list wins. For this, you’ll need breakout rooms and the whiteboard.
Twitter-It
Have participants summarize their day by coming up with a short post, like a “tweet” on Twitter. You could even ask learners to come up with a fun “hashtag” to summarize a key takeaway. Learners can use the chat, whiteboard, private chat, or breakout rooms.
Takeaway Tag
Ask learners to come up with one key takeaway from the session. Then, ask them to raise their virtual hands. Call on one participant to share their takeaway, lower their hand, and tag someone else to share. Continue until everyone’s had a chance to share and all hands are lowered. Learners will use the feedback icons (raised hand) and share verbally. To add an element of fun, include a timer and ask learners to share their takeaway as quickly as they can. When they’re done, you can say, “Thanks everyone. That was done in record time!”
Pair & Share – Bonus Strategy!
Separate learners into pairs and have them share their key takeaways or lessons learned. Learners can use private chat or the breakout rooms.
As you reflect on these techniques, think about how you end your virtual training. Do you finish each session with your learners wanting more? Do you include a closing activity or reflection opportunity? Do you call your learners to action, so they feel compelled to apply their new skills immediately? Give these techniques a try and end your sessions on a high note.
For even more tips on how to keep your learners engaged, check out our Maximizing Engagement in the Virtual Classroom workshop. You’ll be amazed at how engaging and interactive your sessions can be!
This article was first published April 27, 2020.
4 Responses to “Top 5 Strategies to End Your Virtual Sessions on a High Note”
Larry,
The “hashtag review” works really well. At the end of the day, ask learners, “What word or phrase would you “hashtag” to describe what you learned in today’s session?” You can even take a screenshot and send it to the participants after the session is over. Check out our Free Virtual Classroom Resources for other tips, job aids, and guides, to set you up for success in the virtual classroom.
https://langevin.com/virtual-classroom-resources/
I like the idea of utilizing hashtags in a virtual session. My boss is planning to start a training program for employees this summer. I’ll tell him to consider using hashtags as he figures out how to do virtual training. https://www.americantigerfirearmsllc.com/
Megan,
Thanks for your comment. I’m so glad that you like the ideas and more importantly, will be using them in your next sessions!
Virtual Training can be just as effective AND FUN as Instructor-Led Training. Let me know how it goes.
These are great ideas and a lot of fun! Looking forward to implementing them in our vILT.