The introductory session is an important one. Participants come with their own Contexts and understanding(s) of what the words ‘Experiential’, ‘Education’ and ‘Learning’ mean. There is curiosity, anxiety, apprehension and excitement in the air. Its Thick! It can be felt!
Through an introductory process, the group discovers some things about one another, their histories and aspirations through story-telling. Building an acceptance of the group they are going to be with for the next 9 months is an important part of group process. Participants are invited to articulate their expectations from the course, and define roles for themselves and the Facilitator.
Some of the models that give grounding to the field of experiential education are discussed. A partial list includes:
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Colin Beard’s 6 dimensions
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3 C’s in the context of being an Educator (equals being Facilitator, Teacher, Trainer, Parent, anybody influencing another).
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What lies between Education & Adventure?
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Activity vs Experience
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Different Learning styles - a perspective
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Models of Learning theories in the EE (Experiential Education Context)
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Activities to illustrate the connection between behaviour and learning.
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Relationship between Intention/Purpose, Attachment and Outcome.
The participants are made part of a Learning Management System:
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Which allows me to share Content, to keep a dialogue open for the months to come,
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For you to journal at the end of every session,
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For you to make smaller discussion groups for projects and
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For the planning of the final Outdoor session run by YOU!
session 9
closure
Hopefully you have taken notes, read the articles put up in the files section of the Learning Management System that we will use, and Practiced, Practiced, Practiced!
Now its back to the classroom to share your perspective - which is probably the most important piece in YOUR practice. You will be given the questions a week in advance. On this day, you will put pen to paper, and write your heart out! The rules of the game are simple:
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Write YOUR answer.
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You can refer to your notes, gather a group to discuss, any time you want - in the ‘chat’ space created in the room.
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Take a break whenever you want.
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Write in any position that you find comfortable!
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BUT when you put Pen to Paper, all you write from is your Head!
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You also have the freedom NOT to write. And I WILL ask you why you make that choice!
It has been quite a lot of fun for many who have been through the experience! I hope you enjoy it too!
The 2nd day is a day for
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Dressing up and Getting your certificates! You can invite a family member or friend if you wish.
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I will finally give you answers to any question you may ask!
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Closure Reflective Circle