First tutor workshop held for Open Learning 'Foundations' programme

27 May 2011

The first training workshop for Open Learning tutors and facilitators was held at Trinity College two weeks ago (photo).  Eighteen people came to the day, led by Dr David Ball, Head of Open Learning.

Revd Dr Chris Barrigar started the workshop by leading the group through a reflection on how God calls us to encourage and mentor others in their faith journey. Chris' experience in developing and promoting theological education by extension meant that his reflection had particular resonance within the context of Trinity's Open Learning Programme and set the tone for the rest of the day.

Through a series of presentations, discussions and group exercises, the group had the opportunity to learn about the newly revised 'Foundations' Open Learning programme of Bible study, meet fellow tutors and spend some time focusing on different aspects of the tutor's role. The afternoon was spent discussing facilitation skills and participating in a group exercise that saw some 'Oscar-worthy' performances as people took on the roles of different student 'types' to challenge the nominated facilitators! The atmosphere was one of purposeful collaboration, good humour, interest in and commitment to the programme.

The workshop provided a wonderful chance to build relationships, encourage tutors (both new and 'old') and affirm the great work being done in the Open Learning groups in the Bristol and Hertfordshire areas. Feedback from participants revealed that people welcomed the chance to come together and had felt inspired and motivated by the day.

The intention is to run similar workshops at least twice a year, with the hope that tutors will also be encouraged to meet informally with other tutors in their locality to continue to build the Open Learning community.

A second workshop is planned for 10 September 2011 at Brentwood.

For further information about becoming a tutor or student on the Open Learning: Foundations Programme, please contact David Ball or Nicola Willcocks at Open Learning.

Trintiy College Bristol Open Learning provides self-study materials backed by local groups for support and study