Page 291 - The Creative Training Idea Book Inspired Tips and Techniques for Engaging and Effective Learning

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280 The Creative Training Idea Book
information. They are great for quickly capturing participant comments, for creating
prepared information and graphics, and for displaying material for reference later in a
session. One of their greatest assets is the simplicity of use. Virtually anyone can use them
to write or draw in a session. Even so, you should take the time to plan their usage and
practice your technique so that what ends up being displayed is perceived as valuable
by participants. Learning basic presentation techniques and using flip charts effectively
adds another dimension to your professional abilities. They can be used in ways that are
limited only by your creativity and ability (see The Big Book of Flip Charts in the Resources
for Trainers section in the appendices).
When designing flip chart pages for use in your sessions, ask yourself the following
questions:

Are they clear (meaning)?
Are they concise (well written)?

Are they simple (creative without detracting)?
Are they graphic (right colors, clip art, and images used)?
Do they add value (will they aid learning)?
Are they necessary (can points be made in other ways)?

General Tips for Use
Flip charts are inexpensive yet effective training aids for small groups of up to about
25–30 participants (depending on room configuration). They provide an easy way to
capture key thoughts or to highlight information in small group settings. Many tips for
using flip charts are found in The Big Book of Flip Charts 31 and are shown on the fol-
lowing pages. In general:

Make sure the easel is locked into position and balanced.
Place the easel so that ceiling lighting shines onto the front of the page and does not
come from behind where it can cast a shadow and make viewing difficult.
Do not write on the flip chart and talk at the same time. Write first; then face your par-
ticipants and talk.
Stand to the right side of the easel, as you face your audience, if you’re right-handed;
stand to the left side if left-handed. This allows you to face your participants and
easily turn to capture key discussion points on paper with your dominant writing
hand while turning pages with your free hand.
Do not block your participants’ view when pointing to preprinted information on the
flip chart.

When not writing, PUT THE MARKER DOWN! Playing with it or using as a pointer can
be distracting and communicate nervousness.