Now that the weather is perking up in the UK, I wondered if many trainers took the opportunity to give their sessions in the great outdoors?
I know many will be hemmed in by desktops, but with more opportunities to use mobile technology or do more practical activities, do you like to make the most of a change of scene and take your learners outside?
I can imagine it improving mood & engagement if people get to spend time in the sunshine rather than in a room waiting to escape...
6 Responses
I think this is a great idea.
I think this is a great idea. The possibilities are endless, deliver a presentation in a park, practice communication skills whilst having an ice cream.
However, one can’t assume everyone would appreciate this – hayfever sufferers for one would probably detest it.
Anything that creates a positive mood for learning is a good thing in my book.
Agreed – I just think that
Agreed – I just think that especially for longer training or induction sessions, it could be a nice way to break the day up and also make things a bit more informal. As you say – the possibilities are endless 🙂
we don’t actively take people
we don’t actively take people outside as some of our offices are in highly urbanised areas and not sure standing by a dual carriageway would be that great. However, in the days when we used hotels, I have suggested that people actually use the grounds and not just stay in the room when doing syndicate work.
In addition one of our delivery teams are using tablets/mi-fi’s now to deliver digital content and the learner can be anywhere when they undertake that. The facilitator doesn’t dictate they just ask them to do it some where comfortable to them.
I do think it begs another question though about rooms used to run learning events. We try to have rooms that have lots of natural light anyway with plenty of windows etc. I have, however, facilitated in basement type rooms with no light and oppressive lighting. This makes me want to run away let alone the learners.
Now you say that – every
Now you say that – every training session I’ve had at previous employers was in the basement rooms, how odd! Not only is the space itself oppressive, but what does that say to people about how training is viewed and valued by the business? One for another discussion maybe…
Yes – during some coaching
Yes – during some coaching training when the weather was particularly nice I encouraged people to do their coaching conversations outside. I then floated around between all pairs to monitor and observe them. It was all very civilised, no-one took advantage and mucked about (sunbathing etc.) and the mood was definitely lifted.
That sounds great – the main
That sounds great – the main reason I asked the question was because I thought it could be a good way to raise spirits and increase motivation, so it’s good to hear that being outside had a positive effect. Thanks Jane!