Facilitator Training Program  

Updated: June 8th, 2008

Become a Program Facilitator

The Facilitator Training program helps you develop the skills you need to thrive as an Our Mission Possible facilitator. As a facilitator you will be required to hold the space and maintain a safety container for teens and coaches, guiding them to fully realize the opportunity of the event.

Today's facilitators are frequently asked to lead the work of a team, which includes students and coaches, often without the benefit of direct supervisory authority. The rapid change in the workshop environment calls for constant flexibility in order to react to shifting topics, demanding students, or new advances in information technology. Alliances and partnerships are constantly forming, dissolving and re-forming. To excel in this environment requires the ability to efficiently and effectively facilitate group processes and the work of teams.

The program is designed to provide the support you desire for those responsibilities which include: leading a workshop, conducting meetings, and facilitating group dynamics. If you feel a need to lead, or a desire to coordinate the work of others, then this course is for you.

Program Objectives

As a result of your participation in this program, you will:
* become familiar with a simple, practical framework for designing and leading effective workshops, design planning sessions and other facilitated events
* understand and be able to use a range of strategies and techniques for guiding your team to a desired result.
* learn skills to deal with disruptive, difficult meeting behaviors and dominating team members
* develop an increased ability to support organizational change.
* gain an increased sense of confidence and leave energized to take on a greater leadership role within the organization.

Program Methodology

We believe that training should be conducted with a full appreciation of the learners' goals and expectations. Rather than "forgetting about work," you will be invited to "bring your work with you" in the form of a specific problem or challenge, on which you can make progress during the course. Other program characteristics include:
* low trainer to participant ratio ensuring ample individual attention
* repeated opportunities during the course to practice new skills and receive immediate feedback from trainers and colleagues
* the use of video-based training, enabling you to see yourself in action as you facilitate group sessions
* professional trainers with many years of experience teaching facilitation and leadership skills in the public and private sectors
* fellow participants from a broad array of professions and organizations who are facing similar challenges.

About the Trainers