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Participant Engagement

'Is Anyone Out There Actually Listening?'

'Anyone who has taught an online class, or given a remote presentation of any sort, has had this thought pop up at least once. So how can you encourage people to listen, and even better, absorb your presentation? How will you know your audience is engaged?'

Randah McKinnie, 2008

Participant engagement in online sessions is important because it helps keep learners interested and thinking, which in turn helps retention and the development of ideas. It also allows tutors to judge understanding, answer queries or add detail as necessary. In addition it helps both parties develop a working rapport and understanding which is mutually beneficial and supports the learning journey.

When planning your session, build in regular interaction with your learners to suit the objectives of your session. Interact with them every 5 minutes or so if possible. Interactions can be very quick and simple, or more involved and thought provoking, requiring more time. Make use of a range of tools and methods to provide interest, challenge your learners and keep them engaged.

A combination of interactive tools and thoughtful delivery techniques can make for a two-way, active and enjoyable session.

Click below for more detail on interactive tools and techniques and how to use them.