#ATD23: Game On: Creating and Delivering Training Game Shows

During my time at the Association for Talent Development conference, I had the pleasure of attending a captivating presentation by Brian Walter from Training Bitz. This was one of my favorite sessions.

The session focused on the power of using game shows to deliver training information effectively. Walter shared insights on what constitutes a true game and outlined key elements that make game shows engaging. Additionally, he provided practical tips on game design, delivery, and the benefits they bring to training sessions. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the highlights of his presentation and explore the potential of game shows as a tool for effective learning.

The Essence of Games

Walter began by emphasizing the importance of genuine games and how they differ from mere distractions. He highlighted five essential elements that define a game:

• The presence of rules
• The opportunity to succeed
• The element of fun
• A sense of speed
• The possibility of winning a prize, which can be either tangible or emotional.

By meeting these criteria, a game becomes an engaging tool for delivering information in a memorable way.

Using Games in Training

To justify the inclusion of a game within a training course, Walter posed a fundamental question: Why is this game relevant at this particular time? He listed several reasons for incorporating games into training sessions, including:

• Introducing participants to new topics
• Facilitating a comfortable environment for exploration and learning
• Encouraging change in beliefs or opinions
• Covering topics in an engaging manner
• Fostering positive group dynamics
• Providing networking opportunities
• Bringing fun to the training experience.

Games can also serve as a means to select volunteers for various activities.

Designing and Delivering Game Shows

Walter introduced an example game called “Fact or Crap” to illustrate the process of designing and delivering a game show. Participants would stand and respond with either “Fact” or “Crap” to statements presented on slides. Those who guessed incorrectly would have to sit down, and the game continued until only one person remained standing. The slides featured animations and jingles, enhancing the overall experience.

To set up a game show effectively, Walter recommended following the format of TV game shows. This involved:

• Introducing the game
• Giving it a name and a logo to enhance its production value
• Explaining the rules
• Creating an engaging setup.

He advised drawing inspiration from late-night hosts’ presentation styles to captivate the audience. Furthermore, he emphasized the importance of protecting participants during games, ensuring that questions were enjoyable and unexpected without putting undue pressure on individuals.

Engaging Game Formats

Walter showcased different game formats that can be used to make training sessions interactive and engaging. For instance, he suggested using a game called “Did You Know?” that incorporated true/false, multiple-choice, and fill-in-the-blank questions to reinforce learning in a playful manner. Additionally, he highlighted the use of semi-anonymous flag polling, where participants used colored flags to indicate their votes, and fully anonymous methods, such as digital puzzles. These approaches provided participants with a sense of physical commitment, interaction, and involvement.

Optimizing Game Show Experiences

Walter shared valuable insights throughout the presentation to ensure enjoyable and effective game shows. He cautioned against adding unnecessary commentary during the game, as it might detract from the overall experience. The commentary could be addressed separately at a later stage. He also emphasized the importance of avoiding negative or somber elements that could dampen the participants’ mood. To maintain a positive and engaging atmosphere, it’s crucial to focus on creating a fast-paced and fun environment.

Overcoming Barriers to Using Game Shows

Walter discussed common reasons why trainers hesitate to incorporate game shows into their sessions. He identified three barriers:

• A lack of clear purpose for using game shows
• Inadequate resources or assets to design and execute them
• A lack of confidence in implementing game shows effectively.

To overcome these barriers, Walter suggested that trainers focus on developing a strong script, creating engaging slides, and finding a colleague or participant to help with the demonstration. By addressing these concerns, trainers can confidently utilize game shows as a powerful tool in their training programs.

Conclusion

Game shows offer a dynamic and engaging approach to delivering training content effectively. By incorporating fun, competition, and interaction elements, game shows can create a memorable learning experience for participants. Brian Walter’s presentation emphasized the importance of genuine games and outlined key elements that define them. He provided practical tips on designing and delivering game shows and strategies to optimize participant engagement. Despite common barriers, such as a lack of purpose, resources, or confidence, trainers can overcome these obstacles by focusing on script development, slide design, and seeking support from others. Game shows can transform training sessions into exciting and impactful learning experiences with the right approach and creativity. So, the next time you design a training program, consider incorporating a game show to captivate your audience and enhance the learning journey. Game on!