Introducing a Training Session
Tips for New Instructors on Planning the First Hour of Training
The start of the first session of a course or the introduction of a workshop sets the tone for the rest of the session. If the introduction is well planned, students will feel at ease and be interested in the material. A carefully planned introduction will also help a new instructor feel less nervous.
Arrive Early
It is important to arrive at least thirty minutes before the start of class so that you have time to set up the training room. Make sure the tables and chairs are arranged in a way that is conducive to the types of activities and delivery modes used. Arriving early also allows time to set up and test audio visual equipment, organize handouts and teaching notes as well as greet participants that arrive early.
If the room is difficult to find, you may need to put up signs with directional arrows. If catering has been ordered, you may need to set up the refreshments as well or at least be there in case the caterers have questions. Also, last minute registrations may need to be processed so come prepared with a receipt book, registration forms, a float and any other supplies required to process new registrations.
Arriving early allows time to trouble shoot any technical issues, retrieve or find alternatives for forgotten supplies and for nerves to settle prior to the start of the session.
Welcome Adult Students
It is important to acknowledge students as they arrive and be available for questions. Name badges or tent cards can be handed out as participants arrive. Introduce yourself and encourage small talk with participants as they arrive to engage them early. Find out if they have prior knowledge of the subject, their reason for attending i.e. what they hope to take away from the training, how they heard about the training etc.
Introduce Yourself
When the class begins, introduce yourself and offer a summary of your background noting your level of expertise on the subject matter. Build your credibility from the start of class with your introduction.
Warm Up Exercises
Have participants introduce themselves and give a brief synopsis of their background. If participants know each other well, then use an icebreaker exercise.
Housekeeping
Get the announcements, washroom directions, forms completed and other housekeeping tasks accomplished quickly at the start of the class. Use no more that ten minutes of time and refrain from having some participants wait for others especially if they have registered and arrived early.
Introduce the Course or Workshop Outline
Provide a snap shot of what will be covered in the course or workshop including the learning goals, timeline, activities, assignments and other pertinent information to the participants. Handout a copy of the outline if this is a course with many sessions.
If you take the time to organize the introduction of a course or workshop, your first session or workshop will be a success. Starting strong will keep participants engaged throughout the workshop or course.
