Explorations

Explorations are in-depth learning experiences designed to help members build targeted skills. Each exploration focuses on a specific topic, allowing members to explore multiple aspects of the topic. The first exploration, Online Meeting Mastery, launched in August 2026. As others are released, their information will be added to this page.

Exploration projects will feel similar to path projects while also introducing some new elements. Projects include built-in note-taking tools, simplified formatting, and updated visual design elements that improve readability and make the content easy to navigate. Members who prefer offline learning can also download PDF versions of projects and evaluation resources.

Note that, while completion of an exploration can be applied in place of Level 2 in the Distinguiished Club Program, it does qualify for Distinguished Toastmaster credit. For detailed information about explorations, see the Explorations Club Officers Guide. 

ONLINE MEETING MASTERY

This exploration helps you grow as an online communicator and leader. Leaders skilled in online communication are attentive. They share their thoughts respectfully. They speak clearly and effectively use online meeting platforms, such as Zoom, Google Meet, and Microsoft Teams, to guide discussion and collaboration. They know how to use key platform features and can troubleshoot common issues when they occur. Like any important skill, online communication improves with time, practice, and reflection.

Core Content

In this project, you’ll build your confidence in speaking online and learn how to be more present during online and hybrid meetings. You’ll explore common platform tools like chat panels, reactions, and screen sharing. You’ll also practice being respectful in online spaces. Finally, you’ll see how your online presence can affect the experience for others.
Purpose: The purpose of this project is to become an effective online meeting participant.
Overview: Attend and reflect on an online meeting. This can be an online Toastmasters meeting or any other type of fully online meeting. It must be a meeting where your camera will be on and there will be opportunities to engage. Present a 5- to 7-minute speech about your experience at a club meeting.
This project includes:

  • Features of Major Online Meeting Platforms
  • Troubleshooting Common Technical Issues Guide
  • Online Meeting Etiquette Checklist
  • Attending an online meeting of your choice
  • 5 to 7-minute speech

This project is about improving your skills and finding what works well for you; it’s not about being perfect. You’ll explore tips that help you feel more confident and prepared. Along the way, you’ll think about your current habits, try new techniques, and build your skills in a supportive environment.
Purpose: The purpose of this project is to deliver an effective presentation in an online meeting.
Overview: Prepare a 5- to 7-minute presentation on any topic and deliver it in an online setting. You will:

  • Adjust your delivery for an online audience.
  • Use at least one interactive tool (e.g., chat, poll, or reactions).
  • Work with the meeting host to monitor platform tools, if needed.
  • Speak in a clear, confident, and engaging manner.

This project includes:

  • Online Presentation Checklist
  • Features of Major Online Meeting Platforms
  • 5- to 7-minute speech during an online meeting

In this project, you’ll build your skills as a leader in online meetings by learning how to use platform tools as an online meeting host. You’ll also show that you can respond to the needs of your attendees and fix technical problems when they happen.
Purpose: The purpose of this project is to organize and facilitate a fully online meeting.
Overview: Organize and facilitate a fully online meeting at least 20 minutes in length. You’ll be expected to:

  • Work with speakers and presenters to determine the types of interactive tools you’ll need in your online meeting platform.*
  • Select the platform you’ll use to host your meeting.
  • Set up the meeting in the platform with a web link.
  • Assign meeting role permissions in your platform as needed.
  • Send the meeting invitation to attendees. Include an agenda, attendee expectations for participation, and any needed resources.
  • Test your technology and develop a backup plan in case you have technical issues.
  • Use at least one tool in the platform to encourage participation, such as “raise hand” or “thumbs up” reactions, a poll, the chat, or screen sharing.
  • Monitor for attendee feedback to troubleshoot and resolve technology issues. Support attendees as needed.

This project includes:

  • Online Meeting Planning Checklist
  • Troubleshooting Common Technical Issues Guide
  • Online Meeting Role Reference Guide
  • Organizing and facilitating a fully online meeting at least 20 minutes in length

The culmination project is the final step in your exploration of Online Meeting Mastery. The Core Content assignments prepared you for this culmination. These three assignments must be completed before this one. 
Purpose: The purpose of this assignment is to present in a hybrid meeting format that includes all attendees.
Overview: You will present and engage attendees in a portion of a hybrid meeting. First, you will deliver a speech in person to both online attendees and those in the room. Then, you will lead a Q&A session. The ideal learning experience is to present in person to a hybrid audience. This project will help you practice speaking in meetings with online and in-person audiences. It will also help you demonstrate your expertise using platform tools that help both audiences stay engaged..
This project includes:

  • 7 to 10-minute speech
  • 10- to 15-minute interactive Q&A session