How to Adapt Practical Exercises for a Synchronous Online Class

Contents:

• Why you can't just take practical offline exercises and transfer them online
• How to adapt different types of exercises for online

Business trainer and managing partner of the K&D Training agency, I specialize in the development and implementation of programs aimed at improving personal, managerial and organizational effectiveness. As a soft skills instructor at ITMO University, I teach students essential skills for career success. I also develop educational games that support learning in higher education and business, making the learning process more interactive and effective. My goal is to help people and organizations achieve their maximum potential through practical and innovative learning methods.

This article is based on the webinar "Translating Practical Exercises and Gaming Solutions from Offline to Online: Successes, Mistakes, and Life Hacks," which was held on the Rakurs platform. The webinar covered key aspects of adapting traditional teaching methods and game formats for an online format. Participants discussed successful examples of translating practical exercises into a digital environment, as well as pitfalls to avoid in this process. Experts shared useful life hacks that can help optimize the transition to online learning, improve engagement with participants, and enhance the effectiveness of classes. This information will be useful for both educators and event organizers looking to adapt their programs for an online format.

Why You Can't Simply Translate In-person Practical Exercises Online

Translating practical exercises into an online format exactly as they are conducted offline is a complex task. This is because distance learning exhibits unique digital behaviors that require adapting methods and approaches. The online format requires taking into account the peculiarities of participants' perception and interaction, which necessitates a revision of traditional teaching methods. The effectiveness of practical exercises in a virtual space depends on the right choice of tools and technologies that will help create an interactive and engaging environment for participants.

• Students become distracted more quickly. In an in-person lesson, offering students a 30-minute assignment for independent work can be very effective. When teaching remotely, if you give students an assignment and let them go for half an hour, it will be difficult to reassemble the group. People are more likely to get distracted by other things, go have tea, or watch a TV series.
• Long online classes are ineffective. The previous point suggests that it's best to avoid multi-hour remote classes and not try to include multiple topics in a single webinar. It's preferable to create a series of webinars or training sessions, each dedicated to a single topic.
• Interactivity is essential. Failure to include elements of active participant interaction in the lesson will fail to achieve the desired learning outcome. They may be familiar with the theoretical material, but they are unlikely to retain the knowledge or learn anything.
• Assignments that are appropriate for offline learning prove too complex online. Due to a shortened attention span and constant distractions, remote students often need instructions literally explained to them. Sometimes repetition is required, and the tasks themselves are slightly simpler than for classroom training.
• The influence of the presenter is limited. In an offline setting, the charisma and charm of a teacher or trainer often help engage students in learning and interaction. However, their effectiveness is diminished when distance learning is involved. Even if all participants have their cameras turned on, it is more difficult for the webinar presenter to monitor in real time who is working faster than others and who is lagging behind, when additional explanations are needed, and when it is best to give the audience a break. Therefore, the methodology and principles used to develop the lesson begin to play a more important role than charisma.

To maintain the effectiveness of assignments and exercises when transitioning to an online format, they must be carefully adapted. Appropriate methods and tools will help ensure high-quality learning and interaction with participants. It is important to consider the specifics of online learning to maintain learners' engagement and motivation. Adaptation of content includes revision of the format, use of interactive elements and regular feedback, which ultimately contributes to a deeper assimilation of the material.

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Psychological factors play Factors play a key role in the effectiveness of online learning. They influence motivation, engagement, and the ability to absorb new material. One of the most important factors is student motivation. High intrinsic motivation promotes deeper understanding and better mastery of the course material. It is also important to consider that external factors, such as support from instructors and interaction with peers, can significantly increase motivation. Student engagement in the learning process also depends on psychological aspects. Emotional state, self-confidence, and a sense of belonging to the learning community can significantly influence results. Students who feel part of a group are more likely to participate in discussions and be active, which has a positive impact on their learning. Furthermore, self-discipline and workspace organization play an important role in online learning. Psychological readiness for independent learning and time management help avoid procrastination and focus on learning tasks.

Therefore, to improve the effectiveness of online learning, it is necessary to consider psychological factors such as motivation, engagement, emotional state, and self-discipline. Creating a supportive learning environment and using methods that promote the development of these factors can significantly improve learning outcomes.

How to adapt different types of exercises for online learning

Considering the above reasons, we can conclude that exercises for distance learners should be interactive, engaging, and brief enough to avoid overloading participants. In this context, we will consider three main types of activities that are successfully used in corporate training and practical classes at universities. These activities will help maintain student engagement, fostering deeper learning and improving the overall learning atmosphere in the online space.

Icebreakers, or "icebreakers," are short exercises that help relieve tension and engage participants. These methods are often used at the beginning of classes, as well as during the course of work, for example, between assignments or topics. Icebreakers help create a comfortable atmosphere, which allows participants to better interact with each other and participate more actively in discussions. Including such exercises in the program helps increase engagement and improve the overall dynamics of the group.

Warm-ups in a remote format differ significantly from traditional in-person exercises. Firstly, when conducting an online warm-up, it is important to consider the individual characteristics of the participants, as each may have different levels of training and access to equipment. Secondly, a remote warm-up requires a special approach to organizing the space: it is necessary to provide sufficient space for performing the exercises and minimize distractions. It's also worth considering the use of video and audio materials to better explain exercise techniques. It's important to maintain a high level of participant engagement by using interactive elements and asking questions throughout the process. An effective remote warm-up can be just as productive as an in-person session if properly organized.

• Physical warm-ups aren't always practical. Physical activity works well in person, helping participants to perk up and "shake things up." This is more difficult in an online format, especially when interacting with a group they don't know well. The teacher's or coach's influence is limited, the cameras are turned off, and if you say, "We're doing a physical warm-up now. Let's stand up, wave our arms, and do some squats," there's no guarantee that participants will do it.
• Props aren't allowed. In person, you might have strings, a ball, toys, or markers handy. Online, you only have a camera, chat, and a virtual whiteboard.
• Discussion is in the chat, not out loud. In an in-person class, it's easy to discuss exercises, summarize the warm-up, and quickly get feedback. Online, communicating out loud with students takes more time—participants need to get the teacher's attention, turn on the microphone, and so on. Therefore, as a rule, everything is discussed in the chat.
• The optimal time is up to three minutes. Due to the reduced attention span, online classes should generally be shorter than in-person classes. Therefore, while in the classroom, 15 minutes can easily be spent on a warm-up, in a remote setting, a maximum of three minutes is enough.
• Warm-ups can compensate for the lack of communication. In in-person classes, students can interact with each other during breaks, but this is not possible online. Many people who study remotely experience a lack of communication, and this can be replenished, including during warm-ups.

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There are many techniques and exercises that Help you focus on completing tasks. Effective concentration is the key to productivity and achieving goals. By applying these techniques, you can improve your ability to focus and minimize distractions.

The first step to improving concentration is creating a comfortable workspace. Make sure your work area is organized and free of unnecessary items that can distract you. It is also a good idea to set clear time limits for completing tasks. Using the Pomodoro technique, which involves alternating work with short breaks, can significantly increase your productivity.

Also, it is useful to use to-do lists. By writing down everything that needs to be done, you free your mind from the need to remember every little detail. Focus on one task at a time, avoiding multitasking, which can reduce your effectiveness. Practicing meditation and mindfulness also helps improve concentration, allowing you to better manage your attention.

Physical activity plays an important role in maintaining concentration levels. Regular exercise helps improve blood circulation and increase energy levels. It's also worth paying attention to your sleep schedule: getting enough rest helps maintain mental clarity and improves your ability to focus. Don't forget about proper nutrition. Healthy foods maintain energy levels and improve cognitive function. Make sure you drink enough water, as dehydration can negatively impact your concentration. Try practicing breathing techniques that help calm the mind and improve focus. Consistent use of these techniques will strengthen your ability to concentrate over time, which will be the key to success in completing tasks. Online warm-ups can include various types of exercises suitable for preparing for physical activity. Basic warm-ups include dynamic stretches, active movements, and cardio exercises. Dynamic stretches help improve flexibility and increase range of motion, which is especially important before a workout. Active movements, such as torso twists or arm and leg swings, help warm up the muscles and joints. Cardiovascular exercises, such as jumping jacks or brisk walking, help raise your heart rate and prepare your body for intense exercise. It's important to remember to adapt your warm-up to your fitness level and training goals. Regularly practicing these exercises online can improve overall fitness and reduce the risk of injury.

An effective way to begin a session is to ask the audience a question that directly relates to the topic being taught. For example, at the beginning of a training session on emotional intelligence, you might ask, "What was the most enjoyable moment you had today?" This approach encourages participants to share their impressions in the chat, engages their interest, and promotes interaction. This not only creates an atmosphere of openness but also prepares participants for active participation in the session, which in turn increases the effectiveness of the training.

When communicating, it's important to avoid personal questions. Phrases like, "Share your happiest childhood memory" or "Tell me about a time you failed" can be uncomfortable, and many people won't be prepared to answer them. It's best to focus on neutral topics that will create a comfortable atmosphere for discussion. This will help build trust and make communication more productive.

Ignoring responses in the chat is a serious mistake. When you request information or ask questions, it's important to carefully monitor all responses. Responding to them, even with a brief comment such as "Hello!" or "Thank you!", helps maintain active interaction and builds trust. This not only improves communication but also creates a positive impression of you as an interlocutor. Active participation in discussions contributes to a more productive and friendly atmosphere.

Logic puzzles and optical illusions are good warm-up exercises. For example, ask students to look at an animation of a ballerina and determine whether she is spinning clockwise or counterclockwise. The perception of this movement can vary from person to person, and even for one person, it can change depending on how they are looking. This approach not only develops logical thinking but also stimulates discussion among students, which helps improve their analytical skills.

After participants respond in the chat, you can invite them to make a mental effort and "switch" the direction of rotation. This is usually successful, which helps emphasize the point: "Look how well we can control our brains! Today in class, we'll continue to develop this ability." This will create a sense of achievement, even if it is small, and a positive and confident attitude significantly contributes to learning.

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Keeping the attention of webinar participants is a key aspect of a successful online event. To achieve this, it's important to create an interactive and engaging environment. Start by clearly defining the webinar's goals and explaining to participants what they'll gain from it. Use a variety of content formats, such as presentations, videos, and polls, to maintain interest.

Regularly asking questions and encouraging participants to share their thoughts will foster engagement. It's also a good idea to use visual elements, such as graphs and images, to make the information more accessible and understandable.

Be mindful of time: long webinars can tire participants. The optimal length is 60-90 minutes with breaks. It's also important to keep your voice expressive and energetic to help keep your audience engaged.

Ultimately, to effectively keep your webinar participants engaged, you need to create interactive content, actively engage with the audience, and be mindful of the time limit.

This warm-up helps create a positive atmosphere in the session and promotes familiarity between participants. You can ask them to type the first association that comes to mind in the chat in response to a given word, which should be selected in accordance with the learning topic. After this, ask participants to reread the chat and indicate the name of the person whose answer surprised them. This exercise focuses students' attention on the individuality of their classmates and demonstrates that everyone thinks differently.

The "Do this after reviewing the answers in the chat" technique is an effective tool for increasing participant engagement. It encourages careful consideration of other people's opinions and decisions, which, in turn, can become the basis for forming useful contacts. Networking in online courses plays an important role in learning and development, as it facilitates the exchange of experience and knowledge. Using this approach can significantly improve interaction between participants and enrich the learning process.

It is not recommended to begin a warm-up in a new group with physical exercises. However, once trust has been established between the participants and the facilitator, physical activity can be safely introduced. This is especially true if students have turned on their cameras and can see each other. Interacting in such a setting fosters greater engagement and creates a collaborative atmosphere.

I recommend a simple exercise that will help improve your productivity and focus. This exercise doesn't require much time, but it can significantly improve your effectiveness at work or study. Set aside a few minutes during the day to focus on one task. Turn off all distractions, such as phone notifications and unnecessary browser tabs. This will allow you to immerse yourself more deeply in the process and achieve better results. Regularly performing this exercise will help develop a habit of concentration and improve your ability to focus on important tasks.

• Extend your index finger upward. Right-handers use their right hand, left-handers use their left.
• Then raise your straight arm upward, pointing it at the ceiling.
• Start drawing a circle with your finger, as if circling a clock face on the ceiling clockwise. While doing this, look closely at the tip of your extended finger.
• On the leader's command, lower your arm to chest level, bending it at the elbow, continuing to rotate it and not taking your eyes off the tip of your finger.

I ask the students, "What has changed?" If we look at the finger located at chest level, it will rotate counterclockwise due to the change in perspective. This is an excellent time to discuss with students the importance of perception and point of view. Understanding how our perspective changes depending on our position and perspective fosters critical thinking and a deeper understanding of the world around us.

It's important to understand that both online and offline training should emphasize the significance of the exercises. Understanding their meaning helps participants understand why these tasks are important and how they relate to the topics discussed in class. This not only increases motivation but also promotes deeper learning.

Individual exercises are used to practice theoretical material and assess knowledge acquisition. Knowledge assessment is uncommon in corporate training, but individual assignments allow the trainer to determine each participant's level of theoretical understanding. This is important for assessing readiness for a deeper dive into the topic being studied and for collaborative group work. Effective use of individual exercises improves the quality of training and interaction between participants.

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Engaging employees in synchronous corporate training is key to improving team effectiveness and achieving business goals. Here are four tips for successfully engaging employees in such training.

First, create an engaging training program that aligns with employees' interests and professional goals. Make sure the course content is relevant and useful for their work. This will help increase motivation and interest in participation.

Second, use interactive training methods. Incorporating group discussions, practical tasks, and role-playing games will make the training process more engaging and help employees better absorb the material. Interactive elements create an atmosphere of collaboration and active participation.

Third, provide flexibility in the training schedule. Allow employees to choose the time and format of training so that they can balance it with other responsibilities. This will reduce stress levels and increase satisfaction with the training process.

Finally, regularly collect feedback from participants. This will help you tailor the training program to employee needs and improve its quality. Employee participation in the training evaluation process also promotes their engagement and accountability.

By following these recommendations, you can effectively engage employees in synchronous corporate training and improve overall team productivity.

Completing exercises remotely has its own characteristics compared to the traditional offline approach. It is important to keep in mind that remote training requires greater self-discipline and the ability to organize your own space. Virtual training can provide more flexibility and convenience, but also requires participants to be more attentive to exercise technique. It is necessary to monitor the correct movement and prevent the risk of injury. It is also important to correctly select the intensity and volume of the load based on personal goals and fitness level. Using specialized applications and platforms for online training can significantly improve results and make classes more engaging.

• Each exercise should take no more than ten minutes. Participants should not be left alone for long periods of time, and they should be given a strictly limited time to complete each task.
• The instructions for the task should be as clear and accessible as possible. While verbal explanations are usually sufficient in person, in a remote setting, it's best to duplicate the instructions in writing, either on a presentation slide or even in the chat. The more detailed and specific the instructions, the better. This is necessary so that even participants who are temporarily distracted (and there are always those) can quickly get up to speed and get back to work.
• When using media files, it's important to ensure that all participants can play them. Videos are the most common source of problems: they won't open, they lag, the sound cuts out—and the exercise is a complete failure. To avoid this, it's important to ensure multiple channels are available. For example, add a video to a presentation to play it for everyone at the same time, and also show a QR code with a link to the video on the screen and send the link to the chat.

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Organization Conducting a hybrid training requires careful consideration and consideration of various factors. Here are six helpful tips to help you organize an effective hybrid training.

The first step is to clearly define the training objectives. Determine what knowledge and skills participants need to acquire so you can tailor the content to their needs.

The second important aspect is choosing a platform for online participants. Make sure the platform you choose supports interactive features such as chats, polls, and video calls to ensure full interaction between all participants.

The third tip is to prepare materials in advance. Make resources, such as presentations and additional materials, available to all participants so they can review them before the training begins.

The fourth point is to consider time and space differences. Schedule the hybrid training at a time that is convenient for all participants, taking into account possible time zones.

The fifth tip is to actively engage participants. Use game elements and interactive activities to maintain the interest of both in-person and remote participants.

Finally, don't forget to collect feedback. After the training, conduct a survey to gather participant opinions and improve future events.

Following these tips, you can create an effective and engaging hybrid training that meets the needs of all participants.

Let's explore which individual exercises are most effective in an online format. Given the growing popularity of distance learning and training, it is important to identify methods that help achieve maximum results. Online exercises provide flexibility and accessibility, allowing everyone to exercise at a convenient time and in a comfortable environment. Effective individual exercises can include various types of physical activity, meditation, and mental training. It is important to choose methods that match personal goals and fitness level to ensure the best progress.

Assignments can be based on a variety of media content, including videos, audio recordings, and texts. For example, you can watch a video and answer a question, listen to an audio recording and identify an error, or read a text and select the correct statement. Such tasks effectively test knowledge acquisition and help students consolidate what they have learned.

Participants are provided with a description of a problem situation, which can be related to business, law, medicine, or history, depending on the topic of study. The participants' task is to evaluate the presented facts, develop possible solutions, and justify their position. This process promotes the development of critical thinking, analytical skills, and the ability to justify their conclusions, which is an important aspect in both academic and professional work.

During the warm-up stage, questions should be simple, as their main purpose is to engage participants in the process. However, in the next stage, it is worth using more in-depth questions for reflection and analysis. For example, you can ask questions like: "How do you evaluate this situation?" or "In your opinion, how many ways are there to manage anger?" It is also useful to offer students an online test or survey related to the topic of study. This will help deepen their understanding and engage with the material.

It's important to remember that if participants answer incorrectly, they should stop. Errors should be identified and unclear points should be re-explained before moving on. This will help ensure understanding of the material and avoid further misunderstandings. Proper feedback plays a key role in learning and promotes deeper assimilation of information.

To improve participant orientation during the learning process, it is useful to use different designs for different types of tasks. For example, presentation slides containing case descriptions can have a gray background, while slides with training tasks have a blue background. This visual separation will allow participants to instantly recognize which task awaits them and will help them focus on a specific task more quickly. This approach not only makes information easier to perceive but also promotes more effective learning.

After completing individual exercises, you should move on to more intensive group practice. Even if the training lasts only a few hours, you cannot expect complete mastery of any skill. However, this time can be used to develop understanding and ideas about how to apply the acquired knowledge in practice. Group assignments also provide participants with the opportunity to communicate, which is an important aspect of online learning. Such interaction promotes the exchange of experience and improves material absorption.

During offline group work, students typically move around the space, which is a simple task for organization. For example, you can direct each team to its own flipchart. The teacher or coach can observe the activities of all groups, allowing them to promptly identify difficulties and provide necessary assistance. This approach promotes more effective learning and interaction between participants and helps create a dynamic and productive atmosphere in the classroom.

In the online format, participants interact in breakout rooms – separate virtual rooms. Difficulties may arise during the team assignment process: some participants can't access the correct room, others turn off their cameras, and don't respond to the instructor's instructions. This format makes it difficult to monitor all participants simultaneously. The instructor can move between online rooms, but staying in one room for a long time while answering questions can negatively impact the time allocated for other groups. The effectiveness of online learning largely depends on the organization of the process and the teacher's ability to quickly respond to emerging difficulties.

Problems that arise during sessions are resolved by moderators, who are responsible for organizing, assisting, and supporting participants. If a professional moderator is unavailable, a student familiar with the rules and process can assume this role. Research shows that this promotes student control over their learning process and improves their engagement in the classroom.

Online group work has several advantages worth considering. Firstly, it offers flexibility in scheduling, allowing participants to work at their own pace. Secondly, it offers access to a variety of digital tools that facilitate collaborative task completion and information sharing. It's also worth noting the variety of communication formats, including video calls, chats, and shared documents, which facilitates more effective communication. Finally, online work facilitates the expansion of geographic boundaries, allowing teams from different parts of the world to collaborate. These features make the online group format attractive for many organizations and projects.

• The optimal time for one group assignment is up to 20 minutes. If moderators are involved, participants can be given more time to work in breakout rooms. However, this is not recommended unless absolutely necessary.
• It is important to formulate the assignment as specifically as possible. As mentioned earlier, detailed and specific instructions that are repeated aloud, in the chat, and on the presentation slide are essential. It is also worth clearly explaining the format in which students should present their work: "When you finish, send your answers to these three questions in the general chat."
• Feedback is very important. In an offline setting, the teacher or trainer can see the group and assess whether the students are satisfied, confused, or disappointed. In an online lesson, it is essential to request feedback: "Guys, rate this from one to ten how well you did," "Write down which step was the most difficult for you." To gather emotional feedback, you can ask: “Friends, if your mood were a color, what would it be?” If they answer orange, yellow, or red, that’s good. Black, gray, brown - it means something is wrong.

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The new book "Feedback" by Teresa Houston is An essential resource for anyone seeking to improve their communication and interaction skills. In this work, the author explores how to effectively give and receive feedback, a key aspect in both personal and professional life. The book offers practical tips and strategies to help readers establish effective interactions and constructive dialogue. "Feedback" not only expands understanding of this important process but also inspires the development of emotional intelligence and active listening skills. This new book will be an indispensable tool for those who want to become more effective communicators and build strong relationships in various areas of life. Several key approaches stand out among effective online group work formats. Joint projects, virtual meetings, and interactive workshops allow participants to exchange ideas and experiences. The use of collaboration platforms such as video conferencing and cloud storage contributes to increased productivity and team engagement. It is also important to consider a variety of communication methods, such as chats and forums, which help maintain constant contact between participants. These formats not only simplify the collaborative process but also make it more organized and effective.

This format is ideal for developing communication skills. Students can be divided into groups of three, with each person taking turns in one role. The first participant practices a skill, such as conflict resolution, the second acts as the interaction partner, and the third observes the process and notes what works well and what needs improvement. Participants switch roles every five minutes, allowing everyone to gain a variety of experiences and improve their communication skills.

Groups of 4-5 people can be given a challenging task that requires teamwork. For example, they could organize a brainstorming session on a current problem, where participants jointly evaluate the proposed ideas and vote on the most effective one. The groups can then present their chosen solution to other teams and the teacher, which promotes collaboration and critical thinking skills. This approach not only stimulates discussion but also enables a deeper understanding of the topic, developing participants' analytical skills.

This method is effective in both individual and group activities. Participants discuss a given situation, jointly develop a solution, and justify it with arguments. If the lesson is not part of a longer online course, when choosing a case for group work, it is recommended to offer participants situations with clear solutions. Otherwise, there is a risk that students may get stuck in the discussion and fail to reach concrete conclusions within the allotted time.

Introducing new technical tools and platforms in a single lesson should be avoided, as the time required to learn them can significantly reduce the online lesson. The only exceptions are those tools that are well known and convenient for all participants. For example, using Google Docs won't be a problem for those who have previously worked with text editors.

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