Page 259 - The Creative Training Idea Book Inspired Tips and Techniques for Engaging and Effective Learning

lucas chap 07 11/20/02 12:29 PM Page 248
248 The Creative Training Idea Book
does not appreciate the full value of what is being offered or that he or she is there
unwillingly. Try to overcome such obstacles by making the session more interesting and
breaking the flow with pre- and post-break strategies.
Start with the basics of either having a clock in the room or having all participants
synchronize their watches together. If you have a separate break area outside the class-
room put a clock, synchronized with the one in the classroom, in there too. Next, make
sure you convey expectations of promptness and describe any reward systems you use
at the beginning of the session. With these details taken care of, plan some creative
reminders and/or rewards to get people back on time.

Make Time Visible

An alternative to using a timing device is to point out the return time on the classroom
clock, then write the time when the break ends on a flip chart page or other writing
surface that is left visible in front of the room. When that time arrives, get started.

BRIGHT I DEA

Keeping Time
ou can purchase plastic spin dial type transparent clock faces for use on your
Yoverhead projector. You can also purchase battery-operated chronological times
(called Meeting Minders) that count time from “0” up or from a set time down.
These can be used on an overhead projector to keep the designated return time
visible to participants. There is even an audible alarm to let people know when
time has elapsed. Both of these devices are available through Creative Presentation
Resources in the Resources for Trainers section of the appendices.

Build in Productivity Time

In an era in which most companies are doing more with fewer resources, it is a real chal-
lenge getting people into a training session and holding their interest. There are just too
many deadlines and other requirements distracting and competing for their attention.
This is real life; face it and build in time for learners to handle administrative details
during the day. You can do this by offering a longer break at some point during the
session or by adding an extra 15 minutes to lunch. During your opening remarks, tell
participants that this is being done so that they can plan to check voicemail, make calls,
and check e-mail during those designated times rather than being distracted or build-
ing in their own extended break. The latter disrupts the flow of the session, especially
when you have planned an activity that involves everyone immediately following breaks
or lunch and some learners do not show up on time.