[SessionDesign] More Tweaks on Hybrids

[Dirk Slater]

Hello Session Designers,

I am sharing a few thoughts about merging the online/offline environments.  Last week, I ran a face-to-face programmatic retreat for Global Voices in Amman.  Over the week, I found we were using more online tools during the session, and I realised that this is what being hybrid now means for me.  Namely:

- Instructing small group exercises - We used a Signal group as a primary mechanism for group coordination.  As we were using a whole venue floor, I found it better to post instructions in the Signal Group, so they could have them handy wherever they went. (I still checked in with the groups to make sure they understood the instruction)

- Capturing critical notes - We used a google doc before the event to share and get comments on the agenda.  As we evolved the plan during the event, we continued to use the google doc and also captured pictures of flip-chart paper and post-it notes directly in the google doc as we went along.   We had a couple of points where the participants generated their text, and we gave them time during the day to put their notes directly in the document.  

- Connecting virtual participants - Yep, I did this. You all know it’s not something I would advise anyone to do, but we had a couple of key people who couldn’t get Visas arranged. HOWEVER, we didn’t get them to connect the whole time.  Instead, we had them join us individually for 15 to 30-minute slots where we gave them our full attention.  One guest couldn’t connect because of the time zones and their schedule - so they gave us a video instead.  IMHO, this worked well because we gave everyone precise instructions on what they were supposed to convey when they connected - and then they knew they would be answering connections.

So yes, I’m starting to figure out how to maximise the benefits of both formats in a definition of Hybrid that I think I can be comfortable with.  Curious to know what others are learning in this brave new world of face-to-face supported by online tools.

- Dirk

Dirk Slater
FabRiders 
Facilitating Strategic Movement & Capacity Building
www.fabriders.net
+447903932817 Mobile/Signal
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