AV-CANADA recently provided webcast streaming services for a Virtual Medical Conference. Often we assume what people may think of their first experience when attending a virtual conference but the reality is different. We asked 2 simple but poignant questions and below are the actual comments of many delegates who attended the Virtual Webcast for the first time. See the answers for yourself and come back next week when we share answers to the second question!
First Question: Did you enjoy the virtual format?
- Better than I imagined, I’m not an office person.
- I was surprised! But yes, the platform worked well, I liked the polls, easy to see all the slides.
- I do prefer in class learning but this format definitely worked.
- It was very effective and we were still able to meet as a group to discuss. Also very nice to not have to travel 2 days. Efficient.
- Professionally done, lots of special attention to details like snacks and the fitness instructor, I would actually say that I preferred this to a live program as I didn’t have to travel.
- Seamless and well organized. Nice to be able to see presenters and slides together.
- Was very well organized. Kudos to the AV team, the faculty and doctors.
- Made the program accessible and things progressed quite well with minimal tech difficulties.
- Doctor truly made this feel “seamless” and almost like an in person medical school..! Hats off…as well, the faculty was amazing, engaged, and simply created an atmosphere of wanting to learn!
- Ability to listen to some sessions a second time.
- Felt like I was face to face. No issues.
- I have been to a mini medical for a different topic that was delivered live. The value of the proximity to the presenters is something that cannot be replaced. The time during breaks and workshops was very valuable live. Also the presenters were able to read the room better live.
- Short presentations / Well selected facilitators / Great snacks!
- Virtual set up worked well – could easily follow the slides and take notes, plus see the presenter’s video.
- It was great to include some global experts such as Dr. A or Dr. B and I don’t think that would have been feasible without a virtual format (unless they used telecom to connect)
- I think in person is best – the interaction with others during breaks, before and after, etc. is not replaceable in a remote venue. Also during the group project learned not everyone stayed focused on the course whereas if in an actual room I think they would have been less inclined to “just pop in and out of the training.” It really was the responsibility of the learner to shut email off and take the time for self-learning.
- Everything ran smoothly and sound was great.
- Good pace and time. Q and A sessions and panel excellent . Educationally, feel it was delivered as well as a live session.
- Obviously in person would be better but I enjoyed it more than I thought.
- I still believe in person would be best yet considering current dynamic. I think you all shifted amazingly well. The special touches, goodie box, countdown clock between breaks, interactive questions throughout all helped stay engaged and stay on track.
