Workshops, workshops, workshops

This week's class was the second I ran in a workshop format - this time focusing on the management report. I would usually avoid a repetition in format like this (especially considering previous feedback); this report is due in in a couple of weeks' time so the repetition was justified.

I applied a structure to the workshop and started with an information exchange exercise which was probably the most effective part of the lesson. Here learners started by working independently and thinking about where they have gaps in terms of information/data/research for their reports. They then discussed these with the other learners on their table and then with the full group. A type of snowballing I suppose. The objective of this, which I feel was achieved quite well, was to exchange sources of information and to provide support. It's the first time I'd run this and it resulted in most learners having either identified sources to fill their information gaps or direct contact with other learners who will send them what they need.

I followed this with a trigger DVD on report writing and a run through on the format of the management report itself.

I finished the input element of the class 30 minutes early to allow individuals to stay behind and ask specific questions about their reports - a sort of mini tutorial.

Assessment feaver

The learners in my class are coming towards the end of the course so the focus of my teaching has changed from input to having an output focus. In a few weeks' time they'll be handing in their management reports so the first couple of classes after the break will be workshops. I like the less structured format of workshops although I think the challenge is to apply some structure to them, otherwise they run all over the place and no real progress is made.

This Saturday is also the assessment day for the delivering and evaluating training module which involves learners delivering a 15 minute training session to their peers. To make sure they are ready for this, I included time in the workshop (about an hour) to spend time with each of them. Although this amounted to 5 minutes each, it reassured me that what they had prepared was going to meet the criteria (with a few amendments) and reassured the learners (who were a little nervous).

Easter break

It's about halfway into the Easter break and I've been using the time away from College to catch up on some teaching and PGCE stuff - Happy Easter!