Sunday, December 30, 2012

Hints for successful workshops

If you are an experienced instructor or are fortunate to have that “natural instinct” you don’t need any hints. But if teaching is new to you and you are a bit nervous these ideas may help you launch a successful
workshop.
• Don’t try to cover too much in a short workshop. These materials have been used to
deliver dozens of 32 – 40 hour workshop series. Contrary to common belief, adult
learners will do very well with 3-4 hour sessions and concentrated back-to-back 4 hour
session work well if you are entertaining.
• Take time for warm-ups and introductions at the beginning of a workshop series. Find out
what types of experience the participants have with the materials to be covered before
heading in.
• Expect a wide range of computer proficiency. Most people will know how to operate a
computer but will not be gurus. Make sure you explain any technical terms you use that
are not common. Also, expect at least one participant who got their first computer a few
months ago.
• Take breaks every 1.5 hours, or less.
• It is best if there is computer for everyone in the lab in which you are delivering the
workshop. Even though many of these topics are not hands-on training it helps
participants stay involved, no matter if they only check their email or look up websites.
There are example activities in every chapter that require a comput

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