Mindset Matters
Have you noticed that your mental model frames the way you see the world? Your mental model also frames the way you approach virtual design and delivery. Let me give you an example. One of my models for virtual learning is live theater, which might be expected given my Master of Fine Arts degree in Theater Directing. My motto is “the show must go on!” no matter what is happening with the technology. I really hate to cancel or reschedule virtual training sessions.
When I design a learning experience, I am keenly aware of creating a learning journey, much the way a playwright might write a play. I intentionally build a beginning, middle, climax, and ending. I write the facilitator guide like a script with the words that a facilitator might use. I develop the PowerPoint with an eye on the visual reference points that keep people focused. I include stories to illustrate key points.
 
What is your mental model for virtual design and delivery? Plutarch once said, “The mind is not a vessel to be filled, but a fire to be kindled.” If your mental model in the virtual classroom is that people are empty vessels and that you are the dispenser of information, you will design an experience that is heavy on content and lecture (one-way communication). You will see your role as communicating everything someone might need to know. You may think, “Now it is up to the learner to do something with that information.” But Plutarch realized that treating learners like empty vessels is a mistake.
 
If you believe that the minds of your learners need to be kindled, your model is more like a coach or guide, or like that inspiring teacher that turned you on to reading. You are more attuned to learning as a discovery process. In the virtual classroom, you will be less concerned about telling people everything you think they need to know, and more focused on creating opportunities for people to discover what works for them based on their own experiences. The activities and exercises you design will likely allow people to connect and interact with you, the content, and their fellow participants (multi-dimensional communication). When participants complete a session, they will likely be motivated to change their behavior or apply a new skill.
 
Watching other presenters over the years, I have observed six personas (and their mottos) that represent mental models in the virtual learning space:
 
  • News Anchor (I’m Your Sage on the Stage)
  • Energizer Bunny (Energize, Engage, and Enthuse!)
  • Podcaster (Listen in to Hear the Latest and Greatest)
  • Technology Guru (I have an App for That!)
  • Airplane Pilot (I Can Fly this Plane Solo!)
  • Guide on the Side (It’s All About the Questions We Ask)
 
None of these mindsets are good or bad. However, they all have strengths and weaknesses. Anyone who has attended one of my virtual sessions would likely tag me as an Energizer Bunny. I have a lot to learn from the other five types. My most recent upgrade happened after I got advice from a Podcaster and a Technology Guru. Based on what they told me, I realized I needed a second monitor screen, a better microphone, and a better web camera. Though I was comfortable with my original equipment (it was so familiar to me), I took their advice. I can already see improvements in my delivery methods.
 
If you would like to improve your virtual facilitation style, join us for our next complimentary webinar, Mindset Matters: How to Improve Your Virtual Facilitation Style, coming up on Wednesday, February 17, at 1:00 pm ET/10:00 am PT. We will explore the strengths and weaknesses of these six mindsets, and you may identify some techniques that help you make improvements to your facilitation style. And check out my new microphone and webcam!
Cynthia Clay Signature
Cynthia Clay
President/CEO
Creating Warm Connections
I am a fan of self-development, so I am taking a four- session web workshop series on Saturdays with a group of fellow life travelers. Because I have delivered virtual training for over a decade, I do not always enjoy the delivery style and methods employed by other trainers and facilitators. Truth be told, I can be a teensy bit critical.
 
So, imagine my delight to be in a three-hour Zoom workshop led by a wonderful facilitator. What this facilitator accomplishes is a personal, warm, safe learning space. Before the pandemic, he led face-to-face retreats. He clearly desires to create similar warm connections in the virtual space.
 
Here is what I have noticed about his virtual delivery style:
 
  • He facilitates in front of a simple chest with items displayed that have personal meaning for him.
  • His face is well lit by natural light.
  • He is positioned in his web camera so that you can see his facial expressions and his body language.
  • When people share their experiences aloud, he looks right into the camera lens, with acceptance, acknowledgement, and compassion.
  • His follow-up questions and comments demonstrate that he has really heard what the participant was expressing.
  • He asks challenging, thought-provoking questions.
  • He incorporates opportunities for pairs and small groups to work in breakout rooms and gives them enough time to have deeper conversations.
  • He leverages the fact that we are all on camera with activities that require us to look at each other and connect.
  • Every person in the session feels like they contribute to the experience that is being created with their peers.
  • He is fully present – nothing feels like he is presenting rote information.
  • It feels like he knows each of us personally and cares about our development.
 
I have heard countless times that the virtual space can be cold and impersonal. And yet, here we are creating the warmest of connections with a skilled facilitator in Zoom. It makes me happy.
Upcoming
NetSpeed Learning Events
Explore something new with one of our engaging and interactive webinars or public courses.
An Important Time
For Virtual Facilitator Trainer Certification (VFTC)

Now is the time, more than ever before, to go virtual! Our March Virtual Facilitator Trainer Certification (VFTC) course is now open for enrollment and has seats available. This popular course receives rave reviews from participants as it provides a deep-dive into best practices for virtual facilitation and design.

You've seen our skilled team in action month after month. Now it's your turn to rock the virtual classroom! The March course opens on February 25th, and the first webinar is March 4th.

SPECIAL DISCOUNT for the March, 2021 program! Register and pay by February 24, 2021 to receive a $350 discount off the regular price. Just use the promo code "March" at registration. 

Mindset Matters: How to Improve Your Virtual Facilitation Style

If you would like to create compelling, engaging virtual learning experiences, join Cynthia Clay and participate actively as we explore how your mindset makes a difference when presenting online.

Wed., February 17th
1:00 pm ET/10:00 am PT 
Complimentary
SHINE! Five Secrets of Stellar Virtual Trainers

Have you noticed that some online presenters facilitate their sessions with such passion and skill that it's a pleasure to participate? 

Learn the five secrets of masterful online training that can help you create stellar experiences for your audience.

Wednesday, March 17th
1:00 pm ET/10:00 am PT 
Complimentary
In Case You
Missed It
Ask Cynthia:
Virtual Learning Tips
This short video answers the question: "Is it possible to deepen connections online?"

One Final Thought