Giving Great Workshops

We all know something that others can benefit from, that others want to learn. A workshop is a gratifying way to share what you know with others.

One of the reasons for the increasing popularity of Maker Faires, hacker conferences, and hackerspaces is that they all provide workshops. Workshops are not only fun, but they work. They incorporate learning-by-doing, a very effective method of teaching, learning, and sharing knowledge and skills. They also make use of the community that forms during the workshop, where all participants become available to help one another. Creation within community is a very compelling combination that we can all make use of and enjoy. This is what a successful workshop is all about.

In this lecture Mitch Altman will share what he has learned from his experience giving workshops around the world for the last few years. Although he teaches people how to solder and to make cool things with microcontrollers, what Mitch has learned about giving workshops is applicable to giving a workshop on just about any topic.

Topics included: Choosing an objective that can be accomplished in the allotted time, including setup and cleanup. Choosing a topic that is appropriate for a workshop format, where all participants can create something. Making the workshop an enjoyable process for all. Building confidence and enthusiasm that will be shared with others during and after the workshop. Making your workshop appear effortless and easy to the participants. Preparation needed before planning the workshop. Taking your workshop on the road.