The Logistics of Virtual Breakout Groups

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At Skill Masters Market, we get asked a lot about virtual breakout rooms.

They are obviously a great way to create engagement.

But they can be a bit difficult logistically if you aren't familiar with the technology.

So today's post includes a bit of advice for you based on our years of experience with virtual training.

Setting Up Virtual Breakout Groups

Here's a breakdown for those who prefer to read:

1. Create the discussion question(s) that support your objectives.

2. Break the participants into small groups. I generally recommend 3-5 people per group - though this varies based on the size of the group.

3. Provide ALL the information prior to breaking them out.

Relevant information includes:

• What they will do - put it on a slide, put it in the chat box, send them an email. Whether or not the participant can see the slides or chat box once they are in the breakout will depend on the platform you use.

• How long they will have to discuss

• How to access the breakout - will they need to click a button?

• How to return from the breakout - will they be notified? do they need to do anything?

• How you want them to capture and share their discussion - Google slides? Whiteboard? independent note taker? It's important for them to know what and who and how.

With these tips, your breakout groups are sure to run more efficiently and be more effective.

For more tips on virtual training, check out our free resource: Your Virtual Facilitation Formula.