Let me tell you about how the COVID-19 pandemic started for me. I was in New Orleans for a five day training, ending with the Train-the-trainer on Friday. At first, it just felt like distant news. You would here “Did you know they found someone has it in California?” or “Italy is getting hit hard.” By Wednesday, I was comforting my parents on the phone, “it’ll be fine – I’ll be able to finish the training. There’s no need to drive all the way back to New York.” Thursday? Well. They announced they were closing all the schools mid-training. Panic ensued and people were hurrying out of the room. By Friday, I made the decision to schedule an early flight out. We help a brief train-the-trainer and the leaders encouraged me to be safe and get home fast. The airport was a scary place to be.
After that, all my trainings were virtual for nearly three years. At first, I was resistant – you can’t teach people interpersonal skills on a screen – but I learned that you get out of a training what you put into it. If you show up to learn, turn off the distractions and interact, we can learn a lot and make progress.
But I cannot lie – it has been rejuvenating to be back on the road over the last year. Sitting with communities that are trying to grapple with building better systems for the most vulnerable. Fostering collaboration and challenging people to reorient for Diversion and Rapid Resolution skills.
It goes without saying – Everyone learns differently. Some of us thrive in the online setting, while others prefer the encompassing experience and networking of learning with others. When it comes to training for those working with homeless populations, the choice between in-person and online learning can make a big difference.
In-Person: The Experience
In-person training is fun. It is easier to laugh, to share stories, to meet people who have just been emails and learn about their experience. Participants share more about themselves, but also tell more stories about their successes as well as questions and skepticism. You’re surrounded by other learners, you get to ask questions directly, and you can have those awesome discussions that can really stick with you. Plus, there’s something special about connecting with people face-to-face.
Online: Learn on Your Own Time
Online training creates access to material and conversations from far and wide. People that would otherwise not be able to make the trip – due to distance, family, or finances – can access the material and people in their community. Scheduling is a lot easier – not to mention lower cost and no commute or space to book. Plus, you can even connect with programs and participants from other communities and hear about new ideas and experiences, which adds a layer to the material.
My experience is that with the right “expectation setting” around putting on the mic and camera, turning off other work responsibilities, and engaging with others, these online trainings largely mimic the in-person counterparts.
So, Which is Better?
The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. I think the level of engagement by the community members plays a big role. But my preference is always to be in-person.
Leaving an in-person training last week in Michigan, I had people from all over the state tell me what a difference it made to be there. Participants spent breaks in conversation with other programs to learn about their policies and programs, how they were approaching statewide challenges, and often exchanged information so they could continue to collaborate.
While there is no denying that it is a greater investment upfront, the rewards of in-person training seems to be a great bang for your buck.
What about Covid?
I won’t pretend I do not have ongoing concerns about getting or spreading COVID-19 through in-person work. Many participants and myself may have vulnerabilities or people with co-morbidities at home that they are hoping to protect. Initially, this was the driving reason for refusing to do in-person trainings again, but I’ve found that the people who need to mask, test, and can use these tools to keep themselves safe most of the time.
No matter which you choose, we will make sure the training is interactive and engaging. That’s the key to truly learning and making a difference.
Read what Participants Thoughts:
“Would love to go in person and see the team in action!!” – February, 2022
“Probably best in person because its more effective when people chime in.” June 2023
“Would love to do in person. I have participated in, as well as been a trainer, both in person and online. There are things that are carried better in person. In part because people with screens off are often engaged in other activities.” September 2023
“In person training would have made it more personable”
“I like the virtual format – much easier for me than in person.” September, 2023
“Sarah was very energetic and did very well on the virtual platform” August 2020
“Even though it was a virtual training, Sarah was able to make it interactive.” September 2020
“This was a fantastic experience. Although it was virtual, I did not feel that way.” March 2022