The computer trainer’s version of “um…”

Posted by Kirsten on June 8, 2009 in Tips for Trainers, Training

I have been spending more time lately listening to podcasts and online seminars. I want to get a feel for what I like and don’t like with online delivery so I can adjust what I do when I train online.

What I’m starting to feel is that it is easy to put a video up that will get the point across, but it is rare to have that video be as smooth and professional as a live presentation.

I am going to use two sites as examples:

The InDesigner – very slick and professional. This is a very good use of media to deliver excellent training. The only caveat I add is that the hard  “S” sound can make headset listening tricky. When following the video-cast that Michael Murphy/The InDesigner does, I generally am using ear buds and my iPhone. I have to be careful to keep the volume low because some epidodes have a jarring impact when ”S” is in a lot of the content.  I have not figured out how to work around that myself, so I’m not going to ping on Michael for it – it is the ONLY complaint for a fantastic product.

The other example is the Adobe Creative Suite podcast. Many skilled trainers are on this but I have happened to hear Terry White the most. I noticed that Terry has the App Trainer’s version of “um” – he will say “So, Basically…” a LOT. Terry is a pro and I would bet that he doesn’t have a ton of prep time to review his material before shooting, but it seems LESS smooth and professional that the videos that Michael does.

I think it comes down to rehearsal. It seems like doing a quick podcast or videocast does not by nature lend itself to the prep an in-person speech or training would.

Looks like I have a lot to think about – mainly how to make live online or video training I do be as planned and slick as if I was doing it at a client site.

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