Warning: 7 Clear Directions that Keep You Out of Trouble

On a recent hike in Colorado, my husband and I spied a beautiful lake in the distance. We hiked off trail to get closer and came upon this sign. Needless to say, we did not go any further! The sign was very clear about what we should do – turn around! The sign not only saved us from harm, but saved the property owners from unwanted trouble.
 
Explicit directions or guidelines are also essential for learning sessions. By setting clear expectations right at the start of a class, facilitators can save everyone from unwanted problems. 
 
One key topic to address is how the group will transition smoothly and efficiently. Effective learning occurs when participants are actively engaged with the material and each other. Because the best facilitators encourage small group discussion and activities, the best facilitators also have explicit methods for how to quiet the group and bring them back together quickly. Here are seven methods you can use. Whichever you choose, be sure to review the method(s) with the group early on in your session.

1. Explain that when you raise your hand it is a sign for others to raise their hands and bring their discussion to an end.​
2. Countdown with “Coming back together in 10, 9, 8…”
3. Use a visual countdown timer on your screen, with a soft alarm at the end.
4. Blow a few notes on a harmonica or other musical instrument. You don’t even have to be musically talented!
5. Say, “Please find a place to put some ending punctuation on your discussion.”
6. Play fifteen seconds of your favorite music. When the music stops, so does the discussion.
7. Show a PAUSE image on your screen, indicating that it is time to pause, but you will have more discussion opportunities in a bit. 

​Your learners will appreciate your clarity and the fact that you are honoring their time by being efficient. For more ideas, check out Caffeinated Learning - the book, the webinars or the in-person sessions. 
 

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