As global work dynamics shift, e-learning has become a major force in the corporate training realm. Virtual training, once a novelty, has added more options for learning experiences that were once classroom-only. But online platforms have presented a few challenges—namely, keeping online participants totally engaged.
How can leaders ensure that online sessions are interactive and inviting, even as instructional methods switch to digital formats? The answer lies in encouraging as much learner engagement as possible.
In this post, we'll walk through five actionable ways to improve learner engagement and create more success in your virtual training initiatives.
Emphasizing participant engagement can make synchronous online training feel somewhat challenging—especially for new instructors.
In the digital classroom, learners often participate very differently than they would in a physical classroom environment. As a result, it can be challenging to create a learning journey that’s personalized to unique learning styles, goals, and preferences.
But conquering non-participation and helping learners get results is possible. In fact, following the tips and strategies outlined here can make it easier to reduce disengagement and ensure a positive, productive experience for everyone.
As a program leader or instructor, it’s important to approach all learners equally and without bias. In the digital space, it’s sometimes to jump to conclusions about which learners are eager, and which ones are simply toggling their mouse to seem busy.
So how can you identify red flags in the online training environment? Non-participation and disruption can take different forms:
Virtual instructors have likely experienced many of these learning habits and tendencies. The trick is to reduce disruption by approaching all learners with an open, inviting, and engaging presence—and delivering relevant, job-ready content that helps them grow.
For the most successful training experience, there’s a twofold responsibility—on the instructor, and on the learner. While it might come as a surprise, both parties have to work together to ensure success.
The “rules” or guidelines that follow are designed to help both instructors and participants take an active role in the process. This means staying accountable to basic procedures, and gleaning the most insight from the overall training experience.
For participants, the setting can make or break the entire transfer of learning process. Attempting to focus in a crowded, noisy environment is tricky, and it's no different in a digital space.
Encourage students or participants to find a quiet, secluded environment for training. Even simple background noise in a coffee shop or busy public place diverts attention from the learning environment. In turn, this interrupts the learner, teacher, and even virtual peers.
Another rule for virtual training participation involves punctuality. By beginning at a specific time for each session or lesson, an instructor sets the tone for a training journey that’s professional, valuable, and important.
Being punctual not only shows respect for everyone else’s time, but it also sets the right standards for how the session will be managed. If the sessions aren’t self-paced, punctuality ensures that everyone receives the information they need in order to excel during the assessment and evaluation stages.
When it comes to virtual learning, distractions can be anywhere and everywhere. Plus, distracting scenarios are unique to where each participant is tuning in. Other family members, loud public spaces, and unreliable WiFi connections can all become distractions in the digital learning game.
A lack of familiarity with the learning platform or technology can also be a hindrance, especially because participants need to know how to log in and access materials to stay engaged in the class.
For instructors, this means taking time to help learners become comfortable with specific tools they need for employee training and onboarding. Technical issues can significantly hinder participation, so a little practice goes a long way toward removing roadblocks.
No virtual rulebook would be complete without a few simple etiquette reminders. And yes, that includes camera and microphone settings while class is in session.
At times, participants may need to contribute vocally or share their thoughts with the broader group. However, it is equally important to mute microphones at all other times to avoid disrupting others with background noise or conversation. (Within certain platforms, instructors can mute all participants at one time to prevent unexpected surprises.)
Participants should arrive at the digital 'classroom' with a clear mind. Set the tone—everyone needs to be ready to absorb new information and prepared to engage with the material.
Instructors also need to come ready to guide, answer questions, and share feedback as needed. Although some content might be pre-recorded, actively participating in real-time conversations ensures that the experience still feels unique and worthwhile.
As needed, distribute session recaps (to cover information taught in a past session) or previews about what to expect in an upcoming lesson. These small steps might not require much time, but they do have a big impact—ensuring that everyone comes to the day ready and equipped to learn new content.
By using an LMS (learning management system) platform like CYPHER, you can enhance virtual classroom participation with lots of built-in tools and features. These tools make it easier to minimize nonparticipation, reduce disruptions, and reward learners for their activity.
Each of these tools improves engagement by keeping learners on their toes—ready to contribute and respond quickly. The more variety instructors have in their toolkit, the more exciting each session is bound to be!
In-class instructors might be able to quickly spot when a group’s attention is fading. In a physical classroom, providing a break or a teamwork exercise works differently than it does in an online learning environment, in which instructors have a more difficult time taking the “pulse” of the virtual classroom.
Fortunately, virtual facilitators can still cater to various learning preferences and ensure all learners have a fair chance at retaining the material.
Training times have significantly shrunk, and there’s more pressure to deliver abundant information rapidly. Moreover, many corporations still approach training as an intervention—a fix for when something goes wrong—instead of using it as a natural way to grow and develop industry skills among team members.
To minimize non-participation in online training, try the following strategies:
Learners are more likely to engage when they understand the why and how of a training session. Defining clear objectives anchors the training content and ensures that participants understand why participation is so valuable.
Instructors can make expectations more inclusive by taking the following steps:
Participants are also more likely to engage when they relate on a personal level with the material. Where possible, tailor the training to the audience. Incorporate examples and scenarios that match their current roles or experiences.
Understanding the unique dynamics of digital classrooms helps instructors and leaders provide effective virtual training that hits the mark. Remember—engagement isn't about simply replicating classroom exercises, but providing innovative ways for modern learners to gain new professional skills and knowledge.
With an intuitive learning platform like CYPHER, you can also benefit from improved engagement, better productivity, and more growth and development for everyone involved.
Let’s revolutionize your virtual learning experiences. Learn what CYPHER can do for you!
Start by acknowledging that each participant brings unique experiences and perspectives to the virtual classroom. Encourage open communication channels (using chats or discussion boards), and allow participants to engage beyond structured training hours. You can also foster a supportive environment for learning by honoring diversity and inclusion.
Instructors must always be ready to address common issues and communicate expectations with a sense of calm. Be proactive by offering a pre-session checklist to help learners ensure their technology is ready to go. Additionally, have a backup plan (like including a phone number for tech support) to keep participants connected to training assistance when they need it.
Instructors can use inclusive language, such as addressing the group as "we" or "us," to foster a sense of belonging and community. Invite feedback from all participants, and be mindful of any dominant voices that might overshadow or drown out the participants who are less outgoing or vocal.