How to Plan & Deliver
Digital Skills Trainings

1. Theme-Based Training Built around a theme and marketed broadly to an unfamiliar audience. The theme addresses a development challenge affecting many (e.g. how to look for job positions, writing a CV) 2. Skills-based Training Build around the skill level of potential learners who might be interested in learning basic digital skills. It is easy to communicate with learners about the goals of the training sessions. 3. Target Group-Based Training Delivered to an already familiar group (e.g., a hobby group or ongoing course participants). Theme selected based on the specific development needs of the group. If you have a specific group of learners in mind, you can conduct a pre-interview to gather more information related to their digital skills level and needs.

Consider the learner’s cultural background and life situation, For example: Assess whether competing events are taking place in the area at the same time that could affect participation. Check cultural holidays and times that may affect participation, such as Ramadan, public holidays, school vacations, and prayer times. Consider the learners' schedules: If you’re targeting students or learners who attend integration courses during the day, avoid scheduling sessions during school hours. If learners care for small children, consider their availability to attend classes and think about providing childcare during the training.

If the potential group of learners includes parents of small children, consider arranging a babysitter or activities for the children during the course. If coming to a venue costs public transportation, consider if it can be covered by the organizer and make sure to communicate about it. Organizing training is easier for those with similar daily rhythms or starting levels of skills/language. Make sure to ask whether learners have smartphones and/ or computers, and choose the venue and equipment based on the rental needs.

It is good to consider what language best suits the group of learners. Consider using plain language and supporting language. If you have more than one trainer, it is good to think about their language abilities to smooth the learners' learning process. Language learning is part of courses, but the focus is on the main objectives! Flexibility of using help such as various tools, translators, learners helping each other, etc.

Small groups provide a safe environment for sharing thoughts and learning from one another. If the group is larger, it can sometimes be split into smaller subgroups. To gain basic digital skills, repetition is important; thus, a one-time session is not usually recommended for those who are unfamiliar with the digital environment. However, depending on the learner’s life situation, commitment to continuous courses can be challenging. Thus, it is good to consider the frequency of training sessions and the number of hours, whether it involves a single day of training or multiple sessions. It is recommended to consider Lighter teaching methods work best for special groups when teaching basic digital skills. Motivation for digital learning is usually highest when learners can influence the course content themselves. A more teacher-led style may work better for some. At times, learners may prefer minimal “teacher-like” lecturing. Make use of small groups and assistant teachers as needed. Having an assistant teacher who can provide additional support to learners, for example, by showing side by side.

Think about a location that is convenient and comfortable for your learners. A familiar and safe place is simple to attend. On the other hand, a slightly surprising, new, and different venue might spark additional interest. You know your group best—whether something familiar or new will work better. Learning can happen anywhere. The most important thing is that the location for the first meeting is clearly communicated. As we focus on learning basic digital skills, themes include learning about the use of different devices, including smartphones and computers. Thus, it is good to think about the venue with internet access and if they offer computers to rent, the rooms have computers, or if you ask learners to bring their own computers. Please note that not everyone owns computers.

Reaching and Engaging the Right Participants A successful training initiative starts with reaching and engaging the right participants. This requires effective marketing and a compelling invitation, which should include: A clear, exciting description Essential details (see the downloadable checklist at the beginning of this page) A strong explanation of why participation is valuable Reaching and Engaging the Right Participants Use communication channels that your learners prefer. Multi-channel outreach and repetition increase reach. Leverage partnerships and reach out to organizations that already have a connection to the potential group of learners. This network-based approach helps maximize participation. Personal Touch Matters Personal invitations, especially from trusted organizations or individuals, build trust and interest. Many communities use closed groups on WhatsApp, Facebook, or other platforms — involving someone familiar with these channels can extend your reach effectively. Even if people don’t register right away, an appealing topic can spark future interest. Printed Materials Printed posters can also attract learners. Tools like Canva (which offers nonprofits free premium access) can help you create flyers for both online and offline distribution. Prepare multiple formats (e.g., PDF, JPEG) to share widely. ✅ Check the downloadable material (button at the top of this page) for tips on communication before, during, and after your training sessions.

Make registration as easy as possible. Clearly state: The deadline and steps to register What information is required A simple and smooth registration form serves all people, Also, offer alternative registration methods (e.g., phone, online forms, in person). For advertising to a broader audience, it is recommended to take registration through a phone call to gain more information about learners, such as their language level, use of digital devices and what they wish to learn. 📃Example template on Microsoft Forms (Available in English and Finnish)

Clearly explain practical matters (arrival, equipment, facilities). If the group is meeting for the first time, share information about the group size, theme, general goals, and detailed schedule (including breaks, meals, etc.) Inform about what will happen during the first session. Let them know if they need to bring their own laptop or mobile device, a notebook and a pen for taking notes. Ask them to find out their email address and password before the first session if they have one.

Communication & Ongoing connection Send follow-up messages to those who could not attend the session. Be aware that the registration and the actual participant numbers might be different, even if you make sure to reach them beforehand, as learners’ life situations change. Continuous support Clearly communicate upcoming training dates, contact persons, and offer individual guidance to maintain motivation and connection. Engagement & Feedback Use pair discussions to explore learners’ expectations and reflect together as a group. Regularly check if new learning needs or skills emerge and adjust the course content accordingly.