Glossary
/
Check-out
arrow_back
All courses

What is a Check-out?

Check-out

A check-out activity takes place at the end of a meeting and allows participants to review their experience, share what they learned and offer feedback.
Definition
Daniel Wirtz
Daniel Wirtz
Co-Founder, Facilitator School
Last updated
June 14, 2024

Integrating a check-out into your meetings gives the participants a structured opportunity to reflect on what transpired during the meeting and to voice their feelings or thoughts. This process not only helps to reinforce what was learned, but can also significantly enhance attendee engagement and satisfaction. A compelling check-out session can provide closure and ensure that everyone leaves with a clear understanding of what was achieved and a shared perception of the outcomes.

Incorporating a check-out helps in gathering feedback, which can be critical for continuous improvement of meeting structures or content. Reflection in this structured form encourages openness and honesty among participants, and can foster a sense of ownership and participation. It also serves as a valuable feedback mechanism for the facilitator to gauge the effectiveness of the meeting and to plan more effectively for future sessions. This makes each meeting a learning experience, not just for the participants, but also for the facilitator.

Learn more about

Check-out

Why should you use a check-out for a meeting?

expand_more

Using a check-out in meetings is essential because it allows participants to digest and reflect on the discussion, further solidifying their understanding and retention of the information shared. It also offers a moment for attendees to express their thoughts or concerns, fostering a more inclusive environment. Feedback collected during this phase can be invaluable for improving future meetings, making it a practice that enhances both individual and team growth.

What are some common methods used for check-outs?

expand_more

Common check-out methods include sharing key takeaways, providing feedback forms for completion, or facilitating short discussions where each participant can voice their insights or experiences. Other techniques may involve more interactive elements, such as dot voting on session topics or even quick rounds of word or phrase association related to the session's content.

What are some great meeting check-out questions?

expand_more

Effective check-out questions might include,

  1. 'What is one thing you learned today?'
  2. 'How do you feel about the progress made in today’s session?'
  3. 'What are steps we can take to improve our next meeting?'

These inquiries encourage participants to think critically about the session and offer constructive feedback, helping to enhance future gatherings.

What activities could be done to facilitate a meeting check-out?

expand_more

To facilitate an engaging check-out, consider activities such as a quick roundtable where each participant provides a brief summary of their thoughts, implementing a star/fishbone diagram to visually organize feedback, or even a more relaxed discussion, if time allows. Each activity should aim to gather insights while also ensuring that participants feel heard and appreciated for their contributions.

Related terms
Check-in
We use cookies to enhance your experience, analyze site traffic and deliver personalized content. Read our Cookie Policy.
Reject
Accept