Writing Training Module

Online Facilitation Tips

(For the four weeks between kick-off and wrap-up sessions)

1. Check all email addresses before leaving the kick-off session.
2. Delegate a portion of the name list to each facilitator.
3. The first email to participants should contain an email list, a listing of participant topics, and suggested avenues of discussion for the group.
4. Suggest using “Instant Messenger” to hold discussions on group concerns. Set up the service for participants and select time for discussion.
5. Create a writing group on the PDK message board if group has chosen this method of communication.
6. Contact participants to check on progress and offer support.
7. Address questions and concerns as the need arises.
8. Determine A-V needs of participants for presentations in the wrap-up sessions.
9. Create a “writing group” for total group.
10. Create a “subgroup” for each facilitator’s participants.

* Sample emailings could be articles found online that correlate to a participant’s area of inquiry, other resources useful to participants or records of other group members’ progress to date or pictures/video clips taken at first session. Web sites can also be of use. Keep documents available on a website for easy access.