The COVID-19 outbreak has forced many organizations’ workforces out of the workplace. But even with offices emptied and employees hunkered down at home, for many, the work must go on. And when it comes to keeping up with training and development, the key is ensuring a successful virtual classroom experience.

Not all virtual classroom solutions are created equal. Creating a successful virtual classroom experience depends upon multiple factors. To use virtual classroom training to develop the skills your leaders most need now, watch out for the following –

1. Suitability. Virtual classroom is a wonderful way to deliver training. But it’s not always the right solution. For example, if the purpose of the training is to provide a large amount of complex information, providing this information in written form might be a better way to go. It all comes down to what you are trying to accomplish. 

2. Interactivity. The best thing about the virtual classroom is how it allows participants to interact with one another, albeit remotely. Most virtual meeting platforms now have voice and video conferencing capabilities as well as real-time chat. While this is robust, you probably want to do a reality check to determine if this level of interactivity is a necessity for your learning design. 

3. Variety. While a virtual classroom delivery can be immersive, don’t assume it’s sufficient as a standalone modality. A virtual classroom is but a substitute for a physical classroom; it doesn’t take the place of all the elements that define good training design. Pre-work, self-assessments, course journals, job aids, follow-up activities, and other materials can increase the course’s impact.

4. Minimal technical glitches. While the content and delivery design will go a long way toward determining a successful virtual classroom experience, the technology matters a great deal. That means the capability of the virtual classroom platform you are using, but also the ability to properly use the technology and avoid preventable technical mishaps.

5. A skilled facilitator. A course delivered via virtual classroom can be just as effective as one in a physical classroom. Every good facilitator understands the importance of practice. But when delivering a class via virtual classroom, practice is even more important to ensure an impactful delivery and make the most of the various features of the virtual classroom platform. 

These are uncertain times, but that doesn’t mean they can’t bring excitement and positive evolution. It is entirely possible to be effective in executing virtual classroom sessions. The more planning you put in place, the better behavior change returns you will receive. Enable your organization to drive their long-term strategies by having ready-now leaders with the most critical skills. That is what is needed.

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