I am often asked why I recommend including activities into any training day, even those with serious content. After all, it is one of the main reasons why we launched MAKE; to make it more accessible for Training Managers to add in engaging activities as part of regular training sessions without the need to bring in an external team building company.
In simple terms, it is all about maximising engagement, reinforcing learning, and fostering team cohesion. Training sessions that incorporate interactive elements—like group exercises, simulations, and hands-on activities—have been shown to be far more effective than purely lecture-based sessions. Let's look at the key reasons in turn:
1. Enhancing Engagement and Focus
Traditional training methods, especially those that involve lengthy presentations or lectures, can quickly lead to disengagement and loss of focus. After all, who wants to be sat staring at a screen all day! Incorporating activities keeps participants engaged by breaking up the content and allowing them to actively participate rather than passively absorb information. Engaging activities not only hold participants’ attention but also boost their energy levels and help them retain more of what they learn. Simple icebreakers, group discussions, or quick quizzes throughout the day can reinvigorate attendees and reset their focus, making the training session more impactful.
2. Reinforcing Learning and Knowledge Retention
Activities that require hands-on involvement or group problem-solving allow participants to put theoretical knowledge into practice immediately. Studies indicate that retention rates improve significantly when information is applied in an interactive setting. For example, case studies and role-play exercises help trainees practice skills and concepts in a controlled, risk-free environment. When learners apply information actively, they reinforce what they have learned, making it more likely they will remember and apply the knowledge back on the job. By incorporating activities, trainers turn passive learning into an active process, enhancing knowledge retention.
3. Encouraging Collaboration and Teamwork
Training days often bring together groups who may not regularly work together so any group activities provide a platform for employees to connect, communicate, and collaborate with colleagues they may not know well. This interaction fosters a sense of camaraderie and teamwork, which can translate back to their day-to-day roles, improving the overall work culture. Activities like group brainstorming sessions or team-building exercises encourage participants to learn about each other's strengths, ultimately contributing to better collaboration in the workplace.
4. Catering to Different Learning Styles
Not everyone learns in the same way. Some individuals may thrive with visual aids, while others learn best through discussion, hands-on experience, or problem-solving. By incorporating a mix of activities, trainers can appeal to various learning styles, creating a more inclusive training environment. For instance, while visual learners may appreciate video segments or charts, kinaesthetic learners will benefit from interactive exercises. Providing a range of activities ensures everyone has an equal opportunity to engage and benefit from the training.
5. Increasing Motivation and Morale
A training day with interactive activities just feels more dynamic and enjoyable! This in turn positively impacts participants' motivation and morale. When employees feel their time is well-spent in an engaging environment, they are more likely to embrace the training content and apply it enthusiastically. This approach also sends a message that the organisation values their learning and development, which in turn improves staff retention. A well-designed, activity-rich training day can transform a mandatory session into an exciting opportunity for growth and improvement.
6. Promoting Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking
Activities encourage participants to think critically and solve problems in real-time, skills that are essential in any professional setting. Whether through role-plays, case studies, or group challenges, activities often require participants to work together to find solutions, fostering a problem-solving mindset. This not only helps reinforce the content but also equips employees with practical skills they can immediately apply in their roles.
Try MAKE for free to see how you can create some simple solutions from our range of AI-assisted templates to add more egagement to your next training day.
