Workplace learning happens in a variety of environments. There is no “oneapproach- fits-all” solution for workplace learning and performance. Facilitators need to be able to implement training in a number of surroundings and with groups of varied sizes. They must engage learners whether the training is a one-onone instructional opportunity in a manufacturing setting or an event with hundreds of people in a conference center ballroom; whether it is in person or online; and whether it is synchronous (live) or asynchronous (“anytime, anywhere”). Facilitators can make a difference by employing the appropriate creative facilitation techniques that capture learners’ attention and hold their interest according to the environment. If people are engaged in the learning experience, they are more likely to use the knowledge and skills learned to improve their performance when they return to work.

This Infoline is a resource for instructional designers and facilitators who wish to implement creative facilitation techniques that ensure participants experience effective training. It offers the following:

• descriptions of the variety of environments for workplace learning, including a brief description of the environment, those involved, benefits of the approach, how the facilitator works in the environment, and when the environment is appropriate to use
• considerations about each environment that will ensure success
• pitfalls that will prevent optimal learning and performance
• sound tips and techniques for learners to practice, review, and apply to implement the desired knowledge and skills
• recommendations for exercises that suit the environment but also are creative
• ideas to adapt the instructional approach when the training environment does not match facilitator expectations
• approaches that will work in technical training environments to make participants comfortable and achieve success
• tips for using creative facilitation techniques in a variety of environments, which instructional designers and facilitators can use as a checklist and planning tool
• items that address logistics in a checklist format, providing a quick exploration of props, environment checkpoints, and confirmation of participant numbers
• questions for review of the Infoline material that instructional designers and facilitators can use to check their knowledge.