Mary's Facilitator Reflections from October 30, 2003

I went into the workshop very excited about once again collaborating with intelligent educators from all areas of Houston. Additionally, I knew that I was working with Donna who had a lot of experience. I felt confident that what had worked two days before [for another group of facilitators] would ultimately work that night.

Donna and I had collaborated earlier concerning duties so I felt good about the agenda. Once I got there and noticed that Carolyn would be facilitating with us, I felt even more supported. I was concerned if I had enough books and what type of books I would bring for the Icebreaker. After looking at the numerous selections she brought, I really felt that the evening would go well.

We had a chance to collaborate concerning her facilitation of the Icebreaker on Tuesday night. Once again I was assured that the evening would be successful.

Once Donna got there, we all got on the same page and the night began. I found everything to be very interesting.

The Icebreaker was new for me and it was interesting to observe different interpretations of the titles. Carolyn did an excellent job of facilitating and debriefing the activity.

The constructivist protocol also was new to me. I thought Donna facilitated it well, but I saw a turn of events as far as the agenda went. I didn't know that the participants would do a gallery walk and give comments. I was one of the participants that felt compelled to ask questions and I thought it wouldn't be effective if my question wasn't answered. That was why I approached Donna with the idea of having the questions answered.

It was a rewarding experience for me to work with Donna and Carolyn (and you too, Cat).

Thanks for a great night!

Mary

Carolyn's reflections from October 30, 2003

I was thinking all the way home that I really wrote my reflection thinking only of myself.
I would like to have these comments included in my reflection on the overall clinic.

First of all, the participants seemed to get a lot out of it - they went away with something to work on and look forward to in the Spring.
Secondly, I have to commend Donna and Mary for their responsive facilitation.
Donna skillfully and seamlessly adapted the constructivist protocol to meet the needs of the participants on the spot.
Mary, equally skillfully, responded to the part of the protocol where participants posted several questions. Mary recognized that those questions should not be just questions, but that they needed to be answered. That "move" was "right on."
I learned a lot, particularly about questioning, (which is an area of my facilitation that I am always trying to improve).
Additionally, your [Catherine's] "ever-presence" there as a support is so indicative of the quality of presentation and representation I have come to expect from Houston A Plus. Always there to provide support and a wealth of knowledge -it's like having this huge body of reference knowledge available.

Thanks
Carolyn