Pre-workshop expectations
Before the session: why people are coming, what they already know, and what they hope to leave with.
Worth a look
- The first 20 hours: how to learn anythingJosh Kaufman, TEDxCSUYou don't need 10,000 hours to get decent at something. About 20 focused ones, and he learns the ukulele on stage to prove it. (opens in a new tab)
- The Expert MythVeritasiumThe four things real expertise needs, including fast feedback and practice just past your comfort zone. A good test for any course you just took. (opens in a new tab)
- Brain Hack: 6 secrets to learning faster, backed by neuroscienceLila Landowski, TEDxHobartA neuroscientist's six habits that help new things stick, most of which cost nothing. (opens in a new tab)
- Learning how to learnBarbara Oakley, TEDxOaklandUniversityAn engineering professor who flunked maths as a kid on focused versus wandering thinking, and why stepping away is part of learning. (opens in a new tab)
- Learning How to Learn: Powerful mental tools to help you master tough subjectsBarbara Oakley & Terrence Sejnowski, CourseraThe free course behind that talk: short lessons on memory, procrastination and practice. (opens in a new tab)
More (2)
- How to get better at the things you care aboutEduardo Briceño, TEDWhy working hard isn't the same as getting better: the learning zone versus the performance zone. (opens in a new tab)
- Keep your goals to yourselfDerek Sivers, TEDThree minutes on why announcing a plan can feel so good you never do it. Worth knowing before you tell anyone your next step. (opens in a new tab)
The conviction read: a slow, hedged agree on 'signed up for this session by choice' is someone who was sent more than they chose. A round of introductions rarely gets that answer, and it changes how you open the room.
What's in the template
- I signed up for this session by choice. puck
- I know what this session is meant to help me do. puck
- I already have some experience with this topic. puck
- I'm bringing a real problem I want help with. puck
- I can give the session my full attention on the day. puck
- I'm looking forward to it. puck
Questions about this template
How long before the session should this go out?
Once the attendee list is settled, with enough time left to adjust your opening. The answers on prior experience and on bringing a real problem can change how you pitch the first hour.
What do I do if many hedge on 'signed up for this session by choice'?
Shape the opening for people who were sent. Say plainly why the session exists and what it can do for their work, and give them a say early, before asking for their own goals.