In order for virtual learning to be successful, we need to create environments in which people can effectively learn. Our participants need to be open to learning in this new way, and confident that their time in the virtual classroom is well-spent.

As you review the tips presented in this whitepaper, you'll see that motivation often comes down to answering the question, "What's in it for me?" The latest technologies and best designs won't mean a thing if you can't answer that question for your participants.

This is the eleventh post in a series of eleven which will examine how to motivate the virtual learner. The first post introduces the series.

Motivation Category 10: Design for Virtual Learner Success.

Nothing succeeds like success! Give participants the opportunity to be successful and they will come back again and again. Do your best to create effective virtual learning environments, strong support systems, and well-designed programs and watch your virtual learners thrive!

This is the tenth post in a series of eleven which will examine how to motivate the virtual learner. The first post introduces the series.

Motivation Category 9: Publish Success Stories.

Publishing success stories about virtual learning in your organization is a great way to reassure tentative new participants that they can be successful learning in the virtual classroom. Use those success stories to supplement your marketing effort.

This is the ninth post in a series of eleven which will examine how to motivate the virtual learner. The first post introduces the series.

Motivation Category 8: Provide Rewards and Recognition for Virtual Learning Participation and Success.

It feels great to answer a question correctly, and to receive positive feedback from facilitators and peers. Participants often don't expect positive reinforcement from virtual courses. Find ways to build in opportunity for tangible rewards and recognition - even for asynchronous programs. Ensure participants know that the time they spend in virtual programs is recognized as a valuable contribution to their professional development.

This is the eighth post in a series of eleven which will examine how to motivate the virtual learner. The first post introduces the series.

Motivation Category 7: Establish, and Enforce, a Management Mandate.

If potential participants know that management is behind a virtual learning initiative, they'll be more inclined to sign up. Get management involved by inviting them to record short "welcome" presentations for participants and encourage them to participate throughout the curriculum. Management buy-in can be extraordinarily helpful in getting participants involved and motivated!

This is the seventh post in a series of eleven which will examine how to motivate the virtual learner. The first post introduces the series.

Motivation Category 6: Implement an Internal Marketing Plan to Encourage Adoption.

In our networked world, word gets around fast. Make sure the word about virtual learning is positive, and constantly being reinforced. An initial marketing burst without a continuing campaign will make your initiative seem like another passing fad. Regular news about what courses are coming up, and their importance to the organization, will help employees to understand that virtual learning is an integral part of the organization's learning culture. If virtual learning is "in," employees will demand to be part of the action.

This is the sixth post in a series of eleven which will examine how to motivate the virtual learner. The first post introduces the series.

Motivation Category 5: Provide Organizational Support for the Virtual Learning Process.

One of the most difficult parts about learning at one's desk is the constant interruptions by those working around you. There is a perception that virtual learning can be interrupted - but the reality is that once a participant has been interrupted several times, retention fails and the chances that the program will be completed is dramatically lessened. If participants feel they need to work after-hours in order to complete a program, they will grow to resent the virtual classroom. One of the most important things you can do is create an organization where virtual learning is valued and considered a "Do Not Disturb" activity.

This is the fifth post in a series of eleven which will examine how to motivate the virtual learner. The first post introduces the series.

Motivation Category 4: Assess Learning

When they know they will be tested, participants are motivated to learn. Don't focus solely on assessing the live interactions and activities. Use a variety of assessment techniques before, during, and after the curriculum.

This is the fourth post in a series of eleven which will examine how to motivate the virtual learner. The first post introduces the series.

Motivation Category 3: Provide Continuous Encouragement Throughout the Entire Virtual Experience

Participants can quickly lose motivation by feeling "lost in cyberspace." Email and other communications are great, cheap, and easy ways to encourage your virtual learners. Knowing that a real person is watching out for them helps humanize the virtual environment, and motivates participants to stay engaged.

This is the third post in a series of eleven which will examine how to motivate the virtual learner. The first post introduces the series.

Motivation Category 2: Establish Relevance for the Virtual Learner

Before requiring someone to take a course, communicate the reasons why the content is important to the individual and the organization. If the participants don't understand the relevance, they will tend to do the minimal amount necessary in order to complete the program.