Tools like Slido, Mentimeter, and Kahoot! can be used to create live polls, quizzes, and surveys during the session. This not only keeps the audience engaged but also provides real-time insights into their understanding and opinions. Role-playing exercises, especially for soft skills training (e.g., conflict resolution, customer service), can be very effective in-person. It’s easier to simulate real-life scenarios in a controlled environment where feedback can be given immediately. For hybrid training to be effective, ensure that virtual participants are as involved as those attending in person. Use hybrid-enabled platforms (e.g., Zoom, Teams) to bring remote attendees into the conversation through live-streaming, live polls& discussions.

Each training program and delivery method has its own advantages and shortcomings The key is to know the audience, to engage with them & keep the session interactive. The training aids employed need to be moulded to ensure that the audience is well engaged. In person program needn't have as many slides rather some physical demonstration help to convey the concept. Human interaction needs to be leveraged & people encouraged to ask questions while maintaining balance to not disrupt the lesson. A bigger problems faced for an in person lesson especially for young ones who entirely focus on writing out the lecture should be discouraged, rather some notes with exercises need to be provided so tactile input can be used to build long term memory

Training undoubtedly is a critical investment for organizations that sets the team up for success. While there could arguably be tools and ways to engage the audience and deliver so called effective training, the human connect still becomes critically important. Virtual set up can deliver better outcomes but an in-person session delivers great outcomes by establishing better trust, understanding and realizing organizational culture and developing a sense of inspiration, all that are intangible but can truly be a differentiator for organizations.

Sharing the presentation slides and agenda in advance can give participants a clearer understanding of what to expect and help them come prepared with relevant questions or thoughts. Understanding the audience’s skill set and experience levels is indeed essential—it allows the training to be tailored, with content and activities that resonate more with participants. Integrating practical examples and role-plays can create more immersive learning experiences, especially in virtual settings where keeping participants engaged can be challenging. These interactive elements make the training more relatable, encourage active participation, and can help solidify key concepts in a way that’s both memorable and actionable.

When evaluating virtual vs. in-person training, I adjust by focusing on each format's unique needs. For virtual sessions, I track engagement through chat, polls, and Q&A, while for in-person sessions, I observe body language and group dynamics. Content delivery also varies: I assess clarity and accessibility of digital materials online, while in person, I look at the effective use of space and physical aids. Technical aspects differ too; online, I check tech reliability, and in-person, I evaluate the setup. Feedback is gathered digitally for virtual and via surveys or interviews on-site. This approach ensures a tailored, effective evaluation for both formats.

Easy, i either see you in person or not at all. I can determine your worth over a screen. You could be acting for all I know.

In my perspective In-person sessions are more effective as compared to virtual as participants engagement and their response to the session is the mainstay of every training. Each training program and delivery method has its own advantages and shortcomings; however, the success resides with the key is to know the audience, and to keep them engage and make the session most interactive one, which in my opinion In-person session would be the best. Keeping the audience engaged not only provide the feedback about their understanding and opinions but also open the new ways of thoughts.

When evaluating training programs, understanding the nuances between virtual and in-person sessions can enhance effectiveness. Some possible approaches are Using the technology: By using the interactive tools like polls and breakout rooms for virtual sessions to maintain engagement we can grab the attention of the learners. Fostering interaction: Encourage group activities and discussions during in-person sessions to build rapport. Even if we have activities, it will have better engagement. Monitor engagement: Track participation metrics in virtual settings and use real-time Feed-forward in person to adjust on the go