ABCD-Training-of-Trainers-Tools-July-2013

Tips and Tools for Facilitators
Introductions
Expectations
Preview
Seating
arrangements
Keep it simple:
less is more
Good prior
preparation
Simple
Inputs in the
morning
Managing
diversity
Time
management
Creativity
Use breaks
strategically
Conducive
environment
Grounding
session
Recap
Process Design
Use name tags, energizers, introductions, go over the training objectives.
Find out the expectations of the group in plenary, in pairs, using cards.
Give a broad outline of the program and what will be covered.
Remove barriers; ensure sufficient light and air so that participants feel comfortable;
create a sense of closeness between the facilitator and the group; shift seating to
grow the group dynamic.
Design with quality in mind rather than quantity (e.g. covering less content properly
rather than superficially overloading the group).
Prepare mentally, physically and spiritually. The facilitator should also know the
subject matter well.
Keep the language, inputs and examples very simple so that everyone in the group
understands. Use definitions to define core themes and terminology.
If possible, use the morning session for delivering key messages (inputs) and spend
more time working in groups (with short inputs) in the afternoon when the energy of
the group is lower.
Be aware of the different levels of understanding in the group: culture, gender, age,
language, etc. Facilitate accordingly and use this diversity for rich learning.
Contain the sessions to focus on chosen topics and learning outcomes. Manage time
in a way that allows for some flexibility but also keeps the group focused and on
task. Do not pack the program with too many activities or push the pace too much.
Be open to organic learning.
Be creative, using colour, games, stories, role plays and other means to illustrate and
bring content to life (‘artists of the invisible’).
Use breaks strategically to frame a session. For example, if the group is discussing a
controversial topic, a break might be a good idea so they can continue discussion
over tea. Breaks can also ground the group before making an important decision.
Ensure that there is an open, safe and comfortable learning environment where
people feel free to engage and express themselves.
Provide an open space to deepen learning by recapping content already covered or
responding to specific questions about the content.
Summarize content already covered to maintain links between each session and the
program as a whole.
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