A workshop is a class that teaches specialized skills or explores a topic.Instructors, subject matter experts, managers, and other leaders who possess knowledge of a particular subject or mastery of specific skills are usually the workshop presenters.Depending on the topic, workshops can be one or two hours in length.Presentations can be strengthened through careful planning, organization, and presentation practice.There are some steps to prepare a workshop.
Step 1: The workshop has an objective.
It is possible to teach a concrete skill such as how to create and save documents in a word processing application.It is possible to deliver general information about a specific topic, such as painting or creative writing.Regardless of the focus, it's important to define the objective first.
Step 2: Determine the needs of workshop participants.
Understanding the participants' needs for skill level and learning pace will help you deliver appropriate content when teaching a particular skill.Tailoring the workshop to your audience will make it more effective.
Step 3: An outline is needed for your workshop presentation.
An introduction is needed.How will you introduce yourself, the topic and the participants?List the skills and topics that will be covered.A comprehensive bulleted list can be created.As needed, include the subtopics.The order of the topics should be decided.The most important skills should be moved to the early part of the workshop.Depending on the subject of the workshop, it may be useful to introduce and build on each topic, beginning with the simplest or most straight forward topic and concluding with a more difficult or complex topic.There are ground rules for the workshop.Rules or guidelines such as only one person speaks at a time or raising a hand to speak, as well as shutting off any cellphones or distraction devices are good to establish at the beginning of the workshop.How will you finish the workshop?You could include a short review of learned skills, announce the next level in a series of workshops, or implement a participant feedback form.
Step 4: Estimate the length of time for each item on the outline.
If participants get stuck or have questions, it's a good idea to give them enough time.In order to give the participants a chance to go to the bathroom or stretch their legs, it is important to factor in scheduled breaks.
Step 5: Once you have completed your outline, practice giving a workshop presentation.
The workshop preparation process includes rehearsal.If you want to get feedback on the effectiveness of your presentation, give it to your colleagues, friends or relatives ahead of time.
Step 6: There will be handouts for participants.
Hard copy handouts of important information or graphs can be prepared and converted into an agenda.
Step 7: There are visual tools.
Presentations, movies, pictures, and other elements can be used to convey skills or concepts.Choose visual tools that complement your presentation and don't distract attention from your objective.
Step 8: If applicable, use web-based tools.
It is possible to facilitate online discussions and postings outside of the workshop setting with the help of open-source learning programs.These web-based tools can be used to submit homework or outside assignments.There is more information on open-source learning programs here.
Step 9: The room should be set up to encourage discussion.
Place the chairs in a horseshoe shape or a semi-circle to facilitate conversation and post the ground rules on a board or wall where everyone can see them.It's a good idea to have a blank piece of paper on a board, wall, or writing board.
Step 10: There are interactive activities in your workshop.
Engagement and participation can be increased by activities or games.Activities can be done in small or large groups.
Step 11: A question-and-answer portion should be included.
Depending on the ground rules of the workshop, participants can ask questions throughout or in scheduled time slots.