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Discussion on: I'm running my first tech workshop next week. Any general advice?

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d4vecarter profile image
Dave Carter™

My first workshop was a year ago and it was a great experience. Don't panic, you'll do it great.

I created yet another ToDoMVC example, here's the repo, you might find it useful if you're looking for ideas..

Some slides to talk about the core principles behind react might help you too:
aprendiendofrontend.github.io/reac...

Everything is in spanish, if you need some help understanding don't hesitate contact me.
Good luck!

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andy profile image
Andy Zhao (he/him)

I think working off previous and simple examples is great. It gives me a sense a familiarity that's much welcomed when presenting.

The few times I have done a workshop/presentation, I've always had issues with time, whether it's overestimating or underestimating. Any tips for that?

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d4vecarter profile image
Dave Carter™

Have you ever tried to use your cell phone to keep track of time?

My advice is:

  • Introduction using slides - 10 / 15 min:
  • Avoid comprehensive introductions about yourself. Something like: My name is Andy, I'm a developer X currently working in company Foo and I want to share my experience with React.
  • Talk about what to expect in your workshop so everybody will be aligned.
  • Explain key React concepts: Declarative, Virtual DOM, Components composition...

  • Hands on: 1h / 2h:

  • Show a fully working example of the final project first and then begin from scratch.

  • Try to split the project in git branches so it will be easier to follow along.

  • Provide a link to the project repo. So everybody will be able to clone it.

And finally:
If something breaks: Keep calm! - Ask for help to atendees. It might just be a typo. Whatever it is, remember we all make mistakes. No one expect you to be a super-hero coder :)

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andy profile image
Andy Zhao (he/him)

Great advice! Thanks a lot for the response. I've never used my phone, although I think it would be more applicable for workshops as opposed to previous presentations I've done (mostly college presentations, about 10-20 minutes). I'm thinking of doing a workshop soon and I'm definitely going to read over this before the next time I present.