When providing live group training (say 10-30 people)for companies in various professional services industries where the training is being held in the companies office facilities our trainers have found it challenging to get the participants to return from breaks promptly.

Flicking lights or bell ringing does not work since they are not physically in the training room.

Can anyone offer a favorite technique for incenting participants to return promptly.

I usually leave them with (depending on the audience) a joke... but leave the punchline until after break, or give them a teaser on the next topic and let them know a great time saving tip or solution is coming after break.

JAW, when I start a class that is long enough to include breaks, I tell my students that I'm concerned about staying on schedule, but that I understand that real world issues can come up which may delay their return. As much as I don't like it, it's true everywhere I go. So, I make a pact with them. I tell them I will start teaching at the agreed upon time following the break, and that if they cannot get back on time, then they are making the decision that whatever is keeping them is more important than the class. I know that sounds a bit snotty here, but I put it in such a matter of fact and no pressure tone, that I make it clear I want them to be responsible for their own learning and for those that are on time they8 should not be penalized while we wait for those who are late.

It's worked quite well.

Regards,

Del Laughery
President, Instructional Dynamics

In general, I agree with Del. Start on time, don't go back and recap what they missed--but I've seen all different types of things. I've seen making people sing, and hula hoop (I personally, have a distaste for these--)

One of the best techniques I've seen was the use of games, like word puzzles. The facililator would start a puzzle about 2 minutes before the break was supposed to end, and this really helped get people back on time.

Del and Pat are Schweet. I have used an interesting Technique, I give the learners a choice of a 'Theme Song' something fun, catchy that everbody knows (kinda like the song: WHEN I GOT HIGH?)generally between 3 or 4 different songs. I then play it loud enough for them to hear the song about 3 - 5 minutes before the end of the break - works like a charm