The Successful Virtual Classroom

Contents Foreword: Unlocking the Mysteries of Flawless Virtual Training by Karen Hyder vii Preface: What Is Virtual Classroom Training? ix SECTION I GETTING STARTED 1 Introduction 3 An Endorsement of Virtual Learning 4 How Virtual Training Compares to Other Types of Training 4 When to Use Virtual Classroom Training 7 Benefits of Virtual Classroom Training 9 The PREP Model 12 Key Terms 13 Case Studies 14 References 18 2 Key Features of a Virtual Classroom 19 Eight Common Features 19 Facilitator and Participant Use of Key Virtual Classroom Features 31 Sample Interactions with Virtual Classroom Features 32 Other Features 34 Conclusion 35 References 35 3 Getting Started 36 Step 1: Participate in Tutorials and Gather Information 37 Step 2: Get Hands-On Experience 37 Step 3: Experience the Virtual Classroom as a Participant 39 Step 4: Hold a Low-Stakes Virtual Classroom Session 43 Not New, Just Using a New Virtual Classroom Tool 44 Conclusion 44 Continuous Learning 46 References 46 SECTION II THE PREP MODEL 4 The Virtual Classroom Team and the Members' Roles 49 Composition of Virtual Classroom Teams 49 Common Key Roles 52 Location of Facilitation Team 60 Location of Learners 60 A Team of One 61 Conclusion 62 Continuous Learning 62 References 62 5 Developing Virtual Classroom Training 63 Analysis 63 Design 65 Developing Materials 73 Learning and Personality Styles 90 Gamification in the Virtual Classroom 92 Use Cases 93 Continuous Learning 99 References 99 6 Facilitation Techniques 101 The Secret to Sustained Engagement 102 Working Effectively with a Producer 104 Focus on Your Voice and Pace 104 Make Up for the Absence of Body Language 107 Scan the Entire Screen 110 How to Facilitate Like a Pro Using Virtual Classroom Features 110 Record Yourself and Improve 122 Conclusion 123 Continuous Learning 123 References 124 7 Putting It All Together with the PREP Model 125 The PREP Model 125 Continuous Learning 145 SECTION III FINE-TUNING 8 Working with Global Participants 149 Consider the Needs of Global Participants 150 Collect Audience Information 151 Skills of the Global Virtual Facilitator 156 Adjusting Content and Exercises 159 Adjusting the Use of Virtual Classroom Features for Global Participants 162 Rehearsing 164 Conclusion 165 Continuous Learning 166 References 166 9 Ideas for Icebreakers and Exercises 168 Icebreakers 169 Exercises 176 Other Simple Ways to Add Interactivity 186 Continuous Learning 187 10 Additional Uses for the Virtual Classroom 188 Using the Virtual Classroom for Knowledge Sharing 189 Using the Virtual Classroom to Support a Community of Practice 191 Understand the Challenges Presented by the Use of Mobile Technology 192 Continuous Learning 195 APPENDIXES A Glossary of Virtual Classroom Terms 197 B Virtual Classroom Vendors 199 C Feature List to Consider When Selecting a Virtual Classroom Tool 201 D Virtual Classroom Resources 205 E Example of Course Conversion 209 F Webcam Tips 211 G Rehearsal Feedback Form 213 H PREP Model Checklist 216 Index 219 About the Author 226