The Design Lab: Transforming Professional Learning
This was one of the best professional development experiences I have had. Lori Cohen is a very talented facilitator and would pull the curtain back to reveal her moves. The workshop was a great mix of reflection, partner, and small group work, and I learned so much. It was terrific to attend with Fran and Margo as we think about the year ahead and as we think about Curriculum Council meetings this year. Below is the description of the workshop from the CATDC website. I'd be happy to talk to anyone about this experience. Lori provided us with an amazing workbook, and there is also a book you can purchase called The PD Book, which has a lot of this information in it as well.
In this workshop, you'll:
Reflect on, assess, refine, and redefine what makes professional learning and meetings transformational
Create conditions and new systems for adult learning
Design a professional development session, meeting, or equivalent content
Explore effective facilitation skills through reflection and practice
Explore tools to assess for impact and work with feedback
Build connections among participants
DAY ONE: SESSION TOPICS
Redefining professional learning
The who, what, why, how, and who of professional learning
Designing meetings with intention, choice, and adult agency in mind
Creating conditions for learning that foster belonging and psychological safety
DAY TWO: SESSION TOPICS
Increasing emotional intelligence as a facilitator
Facilitation foundations rooted in self-awareness, community awareness, clear communication, and reflection
Exploring power in facilitation
Adapting facilitation to meet the needs of the moment, including when things go sideways
DAY THREE: SESSION TOPICS
Assessing the impact of professional learning—and designing with impact in mind
Working with feedback and learn how to be an effective feedback receiver
Share designs and celebrate learning