Page 261 - The Creative Training Idea Book Inspired Tips and Techniques for Engaging and Effective Learning

lucas chap 07 11/20/02 12:29 PM Page 250
250 The Creative Training Idea Book
is about to happen. Most people will automatically look to see why you turned the
music off and will likely return to their seats. You can also set egg timers, projected timers,
alarm clocks, or similar devices to signal the end of the break. In addition, you can use
noisemakers, such as cowbells, whistles, noise spinner party favors, musical instruments,
bicycle horns or bells, sirens, or any similar device for producing a sound that will attract
learner attention. You can then calmly ask participants to have a seat so you can begin.
This is much better than trying to get attention by yelling above a room full of people
who are laughing and talking loudly while focusing elsewhere. Another strategy is to
introduce an attention getting technique at the beginning of your session such as telling
participants, “When they hear me clap three times, you should repeat the clap.” When
you use the technique, more and more people eventually hear the clap and join in. Soon
everyone is focused back on you.

Start on Time
The only thing worse than some participants having to wait for others who are late is
for you to delay restarting and waiting too. If you fail to start on time you are in effect
saying, “We will start whenever you get back.” That might encourage others to take their
time in returning from future breaks because they will figure, “We won’t start on time
anyhow.”
Even if you are missing a large percentage of your group, close the door and get
started in some fashion. Doing so penalizes those who are tardy and rewards those
who returned promptly. There are a number of techniques for doing this.

Hold a Mini Contest

Before participants leave for a break or lunch, explain that they will be given a puzzle,
riddle, or other brainteaser when they return. The first person to get the correct answer
will win a prize. You can even turn this event into a team competition if teams are
formed early in the session. This can help encourage communication, camaraderie,
networking, and teamwork while adding a bit of fun. There is also subtle peer pressure
because for a team to win, all members must be present and participating.

Give Quick Tips

Similar to having a mini contest and commercials, you can encourage prompt returns
by providing something available only if participants are present. For example, without
telling participants prior to break, give those who return on time a few quick helpful
hints related to the topic. These might be shortcuts (as with computer applications),
suggestions for implementation or saving time (for work-related processes), or tips on
handling irate people (for customer service, train the trainer, or communication pro-
grams). These tidbits should be above and beyond planned course content and should