A few weeks ago DS43 led 'Learn What The Data School Learns', a series of sessions where the newest cohort at the Data School teaches the public how to use a software they've been learning between Tableau, Power BI and Alteryx.
DS43 taught Tableau and Power BI, and I was part of the Power BI team, specifically teaching Power Query. This was a fun challenge as I enjoy working with Power Query a lot, but the tough part was determining how much work could be completed within the time and still be clearly understood by a group with a range of data experience.
Below I've listed a few tips for anyone presenting practical training sessions in the future (especially any future DS cohorts!) :
- Thorough and clear explanation of the concept at the beginning helps when using the tools after
- Go slower than you think you need to
- Check on the group's progress as regularly as possible without being too disruptive
- Get comfortable with zooming into specific parts of the screen more (especially calculations)
- Its better to go through less material clearly and slowly than more material faster, leaving the audience a little confused
- Be prepared to answer questions surrounding the subject, as well as questions directly related
These sessions take place around every 3 months so keep an eye out for the next session!
Happy training!