This handout offers strategies for engaging participants in distance-learning calls, recognizing the challenges of limited visual cues and diverse learning styles. Key strategies include:
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Awareness of Learning Styles: Vary teaching methods and seek feedback to accommodate different preferences.
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Relationship Building: Use icebreakers and face-to-face sessions to increase comfort and connection.
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Pre-Call Assignments: Provide materials and questions in advance to promote thoughtful participation and shared experiences.
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Round Robin: Ensure everyone has a chance to speak by going around the “virtual circle” with structured prompts.
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Role Assignments: Engage participants during didactic sessions by assigning roles like Supporters, Naysayers, Questioners, and Reflectors.
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Open-Ended Questions: Encourage discussion by inviting input on challenges as well as successes; draw out quieter voices.
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Case Studies: Rotate case presentations to deepen clinical learning and peer engagement.
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Interactive Technology: Use tools like chat, polls, and document sharing to support non-verbal learners and increase interaction.
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Role Play: Offer practice opportunities through individual or group role plays, either live or as homework.
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Team Co-Facilitation: Empower participants to lead calls, showcasing their progress and encouraging peer learning.
These strategies help foster collaboration, engagement, and learning in virtual environments.
Source: National Child Traumatic Stress Network
