7 Tips for Designing Online Workshops

1/ Set Clear Expectations (and Stick to Them!) 🤝

Start by establishing clear norms and expectations. Let participants know what they can expect from the workshop, what you need from them, and when they'll get breaks. This sets the stage for a smooth and focused learning experience.

2/ Design for 75% of the time ⏳

This might sound counterintuitive, but trust me on this one. Plan your content to fill only 75% of the allocated time. This leaves ample room for questions, discussions, and unexpected detours, ensuring a more relaxed and interactive atmosphere.

3/ Activate Your Learners 🤾‍♀️

Remember, learning is not a spectator sport! Design activities that get learners talking, doing, and collaborating. Aim for most of the workshop time to be dedicated to active learning, such as discussions, breakout sessions, or hands-on exercises.

4/ Make Learning Visible 👁️

Create workbooks, templates, or visual summaries to help learners track their progress and solidify their understanding. Share your screen to showcase processes and provide visual cues.

5/ Humor is Your Secret Weapon 😂

Don't be afraid to inject some humor into your workshop. A well-timed joke, a funny anecdote or even memes or gifs can break the ice, boost engagement, and make your content more memorable.

6/ Foster Connections & Collaboration 👥

Adults love to learn from each other. Design activities that encourage participants to share their knowledge, experiences, and perspectives. This not only enriches the learning experience but also fosters a sense of community.

7/ Surprise and Delight 🎉

Sprinkle in unexpected elements to keep your learners on their toes. This could be a surprise guest speaker, a fun quiz, or a creative challenge. These "aha" moments spark curiosity and make your workshop more enjoyable.