Course Description
A significant part of the magic of adult education lies in the interaction that takes place amongst participants during the learning experience. Working the groups can be both exhilarating and extremely challenging. Frequently, despite the best-laid plans of adult educators, the unexpected happens during the session. Sessions can rise and fall based on the ability of the facilitator’s understanding of, and ability to work with, the group’s dynamics. We will present a basic introduction to theories, strategies, skills and tools that can be helpful in dealing with them.
Course Outline
- Module 1: Role of the Facilitator; Listening Skills
- Module 2: Force-Field Analysis Tool and Group Development
- Module 3: Delivering Feedback and Dealing with Difficult Situations
What You Will Learn
By the end of this course, you will be able to:
- describe the importance of the Facilitator role within Adult Education
- explain the elements of one group process tool - forcefield analysis
- demonstrate "active" listening skills
- describe multiple facilitator strategies for supporting learner buy-in and participation
- describe key elements involved in providing constructive feedback
- identify various strategies for addressing "problem" behaviours
This course provides learners with the opportunity to earn a microcredential. A microcredential is evidence of a skill or competency that is employment related. Dalhousie microcredentials are developed in collaboration with employers, industries, and/or organizations that relate to the content. 
A microcredential can be displayed on social media pages, digital resumes, personal webpages, and in email signatures. To earn the microcredential in this course, learners will need to successfully complete a competency-based assessment.
To learn more about microcredentials and how they can enhance your learning portfolio, watch this 30-second YouTube video (video opens in a new window).
Notes
For assistance or more information, please contact openlearning@dal.ca.
The Faculty of Open Learning and Career Development recommends an intermediate level of English language proficiency for the most effective learning and participation in our online and face-to-face courses. A list of minimum recommended scores on some common English tests can be found on our website. If you have questions about your English language proficiency and ability to succeed in this course, please contact openlearning@dal.ca.
Recommended For
- Those interested in working in the field of adult education (training, facilitation, coaching, mentoring, etc.)
- Those interested in designing learning programs for adults.
Testimonials
"I was a bit anxious when the course began because of the online platform, but that quickly went out the window as the developer of the site did an amazing job of easy navigation. The instructor, Rick, he was wonderful and did an amazing job. Made us feel welcome, never put us on the spot, stayed neutral but got his point across. I have so much to take away in a short period of time. I want to say think you to everyone who made this possible. Highly recommend this program!"
~ Helen Deyoung, CCA Project Manager, Futureworx
Applies Towards the Following Certificates
- Certificate in Adult Education : Required
- Post-Graduate Diploma in Professional and Leadership Studies : Elective Program - Adult Education and Training
Rick is an Organizational and Human Resource Specialist with over 20 years' experience with a wide range of public and private organizations throughout Atlantic Canada. For a number of years, Rick held Organizational Health and Human Resource positions with organizations such as Maritime Life Assurance Company and the IWK Grace Health Centre. He has taught at Henson College’s Advanced Management Centre and Dalhousie University’s Human Resource Development Unit in addition to his work in the Adult Ed certificate program. Currently, Rick is employed as Organizational Effectiveness Consultant with the NS Public Service Commission.