Who knew in the beginning of 2020 that MnLTAP would be offering all of its workshops virtually through Zoom for the foreseeable future? Would we have even thought that our core audience would participate? Probably not.
Nevertheless, it happened, and much to our amazement the new virtual platform was a hit! Our transportation workforce showed up, participated, and embraced a new learning environment. We even attracted workers from agencies that had rarely or never participated in an in-person training due to travel and/or budget limitations. With this success in mind, we will continue to provide in-person and virtual delivery for most of our workshops
Along the way, we learned many valuable tips for participating in virtual trainings. Here are a few:
- Check technology and connection before the training start time.
- Be prepared and have the workshop materials readily accessible—printed out or displayed on another screen or device.
- Consider using a headset with a microphone you can control—one that will help filter out ambient noise, beeping trucks, and so on.
- If you’re using a cell phone or tablet and decide to talk, hold it still!
- Be aware of your video background. Try to pick one with a blank wall or curtain to minimize distractions. And look professional (no lakeside settings or inappropriate t-shirts).
- When joining as a group, make sure the instructor knows who and how many are in your room.
- Speak up and actively participate using the activities and chat feature and by unmuting your mic.
- Limit workplace and environment distractions so you can be fully present.
And remember, nobody’s perfect! Be kind when reminding folks that they are on mute.