Planning Effective
Virtual Sessions

Choose platform

• Zoom
• Google Meet
• Microsoft Teams
• Go to meeting
• Webex...

Learn the Platform

• Security settings
• Tools
• Lighting/sound
• Practice, practice, practice

Session outline

• Prayer
• Icebreaker/Games
• "Teaching" content
• Breakout groups?
• Review
• Closing prayer

Welcome participants

• Review meeting "etiquette"
• Review how to use tools
• Session outline
• Expectations

Sample Rules

• Be on time
• Find a quiet space
• Use a headset with microphone
• Dress appropriately
• Use full names
• Raise your hand or click on icons
• Mute microphone when not your turn
• Keep video on and on your face
• Be respectful
• Have fun!

Prayer

• Make interactive
• Use images/videos/songs
• Allow time for reflection/journaling
• Group prayer? Mute everyone!

Games/icebreakers

• Download YM
• Scavenger hunts/Show & Tell
• Use whiteboard (hangman/flower power/pictionary)
• See link in chat for more!
• Kahoot!/other online games

Teaching content

• Use tools: share screens; whiteboard; upload files
• Short videos
• Polls
• Check for understanding (thumbs up, slow down etc.)
• Chat (with host/public)
• Annotation

Sample chat questions

• When you hear the term ____, what are the first words that come to mind?
• What questions do you have?
• What is one thing you learned today?

Breakout rooms

• Small group discussion
• Group projects/create presentations (see handout for ideas)

What are you excited to try (or do again) in a virtual presentation?

Helpful hints

• Tech moderators
• Don't assume the kids know what they're doing
• Allow time for introverts
• Train leaders thoroughly
• Mix virtual with real life (craft project, presentations, journals etc.)

What else?

What questions do you have?

Maureen Rotramel
Director of Youth Ministry
St. John XXIII
rotramelm@stjohn23rd.org
262-284-2102

Closing Prayer