Give participants something to do
A workshop should involve working on a question, challenge or skill. If most of the session is a speaker presenting slides, participants have little reason to contribute. State the task in advance and explain what the group should produce: a shortlist of ideas, an agreed process or a plan for action.
Use a simple sequence
Begin with a short explanation, allow individual thinking time and then invite contributions. Discuss the suggestions before choosing the next step. This gives people time to prepare and reduces the chance that one confident voice defines the discussion. Choose the number of activities around the time available rather than filling every minute.
Make contributions visible
Record ideas in a shared place that attendees can follow. Read out written contributions where useful and offer an alternative for anyone who cannot access the tool. If you use smaller groups, give them a specific question and ask them to return with a concise result. Avoid introducing several unfamiliar applications during one session.
Choose a suitable environment
Video platforms can support workshops when the structure and tools fit the task. VR meeting rooms offer a different shared environment for participants using headsets. Test the controls and presentation material before the session. Keep comfort, breaks and access alternatives in the plan. A more immersive setting still needs careful facilitation.
Finish with an outcome
Summarise what the group decided and identify who will take each action forward. Send the useful notes afterwards, rather than expecting people to reconstruct the session. OowOah VR Meeting Rooms are an option for teams exploring a shared virtual workshop space. Start with a small session and judge whether it helps the group work together and produce something useful.
Explore VR Meeting Rooms to find out more.