Breakout rooms in virtual classrooms — how and when to use them

Breakout rooms in virtual classrooms create small-group environments where learners can collaborate, apply skills, and engage more deeply than in the main session.

Used effectively, breakout rooms help replicate the collaborative experience of in-person training. They’re essential in both virtual instructor-led training (VILT) and hybrid learning to boost participation and reduce learner passivity.

Benefits of Breakout Rooms:

• Increased Participation: Everyone has a voice.
• Peer Learning: Learners teach and learn from each other.
• Skill Practice: Safe spaces for applying new knowledge.

When Should You Use Breakouts?
Use for role plays, scenario practice, small group discussion, brainstorming, or post-lecture reflection.

Learn more:

• Balancing Virtual Classroom Engagement: Combating Learning Fatigue
• Ebook: Virtual Learning is Real Learning: 5 Activities for Your Programs
• Certification: Design Fundamentals
• Services: Production Support and Hosting