Think of the last classroom you walked into or logged onto. What do you remember?
If you are drawing a blank, we have a problem. If nothing stands out, there is an opportunity for change.
We need surprise. Surprise tickles our brain into paying attention. Surprise wakes us up and reenergizes our minds. It gives us just the little bit of jolt necessary to keep learning.
“Surprise can offer excellent support for learning. It helps focus, or re-focus attention and can stimulate problem solving.”
Jane Bozarth, Let Me Google That For You (LMGTFY)
Surprise doesn’t have to be big or expensive. There are many ways to build it in with little to no effort.
Start Differently
Do you start classes with the agenda for the day? Do you go around the room so everyone can introduce themselves?
Stop.
Start with an engaging question or an engaging connection exercise like Twenty Minus Thirteen.
It’s the perfect surprise! Worried everyone needs to know everyone? Build in quick retrieval exercises throughout they day so learners genuinely connect with each other.
Play With Time
Do you post your lunch, break, and end of class times? Are they boring?
Surprise your learners by changing your times. Return at 12:47. Adjourn for lunch at 11:46.
Simply moving the time off of a multiple of five creates surprise. Learners are more likely to remember your return times.
Do Directions Differently
Do you typically give your directions verbally, maybe supported by a PowerPoint slide? Stop.
Try giving your directions and then asking questions to ensure people understand. It may sound like this:
“Are you staying at your tables?”
“Are you taking your books?”
“Are you writing three ideas?”
Combine questions that can be answered with both yes and no answers. It will keep them on their toes and definitely create surprise.
Stop Your Lecture
If you are delivering a lecture heavy training or presentation, stop occasionally and do something completely unrelated. It will be a welcome surprise for your learner.
- Tell a personal story
- Show a brainteaser
- Ask a random trivia question
- Take a subject related quiz (okay, maybe not as fun, but still a surprise! ) Kahoot! makes it fun and easy.
Our brain loves and thrives on surprise. We have opportunity to spice things up to keep our learners engaged and most importantly learning!
Are you using the element of surprise in your work? What is working for you? Please share in the comments below.
