Don’t panic, I am not about to start advocating circular references or copy paste iterative macros.
However, over the last few months I have learnt that virtual training is a very acceptable substitute for the real thing. As long as numbers are kept low and participants are relatively close in experience levels, then this medium works really well. The reduced travel, shorter training days and the ability to insert a rest day (or weekend) in the middle of a course are plus points.
Part of the challenge (and fun) of training is to read people’s thoughts from their facial expressions. I have been pleasantly surprised that this is still possible over the screen.
I would still advocate face-to-face when possible. There is less screen overload, more collaboration and the chance one-to-one questions are easier to ask. But, above all, I like proper human interaction and it is more fun (I miss those chats over coffee and lunch).
But I am also converted and small virtual training courses are definitely something I will continue to offer, of course alongside the face-to-face which I am really looking forward to getting back to when the time comes.
It is all part of evolution and, goodness me, how my courses have changed over the years. I even used to present it on acetates and that feels like the Stone Age now.