Instructor-Led Virtual Training
The BCA offers virtual instructor-led training as an alternative learning method. Much like traditional classroom training, virtual training sessions occur at a set date and time with a live instructor, and attendees are able to interact with presenters and other attendees in a virtual classroom setting. Attendees will attend sessions from their home or office where strong internet access is available at the designated date and time. Attendees must register for these trainings, and will receive instructions on how to join the classroom one week prior to training.
To find virtual training opportunities, select 'Training: Virtual' from the Search Category button on the yellow Search tab.
Virtual trainings are tailored to the topic and include many features similar to in-person training:
- Breakout sessions to interact and discuss with fellow attendees
- Live polling
- Q&A sessions
- Assignments and tests
- Instructor panels
Virtual trainings occur in broadcasting software such as Webex or Zoom, and are also referred to as webinars.
IMPORTANT: Unlike online/on-demand training, attendees must be present during the full scheduled time. This means attendees should not attend a session and attempt to cover normal agency shifts at the same time (time to attend should be treated the same if you were reporting to a physical classroom). Virtual trainings follow the same BCA training policies as our in-person classroom trainings. View our Policies page for more information on policies related to attending BCA training.
When attending a virtual training:
- Join from a laptop or desktop computer - DO NOT join through your phone.
- Use Chrome for best experience
- You may be called on during training. Ensure you have a working microphone and speaker (if the computer you are using does not have a microphone, you may use your phone as the microphone/speaker for the training).
- When selecting a location to attend a virtual training, consider the following:
- Strong internet connection
- As distraction free as possible
- Ability to speak without interfering with others around you
- Use a large enough monitor for comfortable viewing (a computer or laptop will provide the best experience to view instructor powerpoints and materials)
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
How is virtual instructor-led training different than online/on-demand training?
Virtual training sessions are held at a set date and time like in-person training, but the instructors and attendees are in different locations. Instructors and attendees are able to interact with each other during the training, unlike online training where there is no ability to ask questions or participate in group activities. The training is live and not recorded, so attendees are not able to pause the training and watch at their convenience (unlike an on line or on-demand training which can be watched around the attendees schedule).
Do virtual trainings have unlimited seats?
No, virtual trainings still have seat limits. It is recommended to register early and register for the wait list if necessary. Should a seat open, those on the wait list are contacted by training staff. Those registering less than 24 hours prior to start will not be able to attend.
Are virtual trainings free?
Registration fees apply to all trainings regardless of delivery method, based on the training. Registration fees can be found in the training descriptions.
Can I share my virtual classroom link with others?
No. All attendees must register for training and join the training from the information they receive from training staff.
Can I participate with my co-workers as a group to watch the training?
No. Each attendee must register and join the session individually. Credit will not be provided to those who do not register and join the training.
Can I attend a virtual training and perform my agency shift tasks?
No. Attendees should request time from their agency to attend virtual trainings without interruption (just as you would for a traditional in-person training).
