3.6 General Rules for the Workshop
The general rules for the workshop should be explained to participants, as this will make it easier to lead the workshop:
Emphasize that the first step is to describe the occupational tasks and operations and the working conditions, and not the knowledge, skills, attitudes and perceptions involved. For example, a hypothetical situation could be used to help practitioners describe the job: “It’s the start of a new work week. As a secretary, what will your main activities be over the next five days?” or “You’re a sheet metal worker installing the air-conditioning shafts in a commercial building. List all the steps involved in this task, from start to finish.” Adequate preparation will ensure that the workshop facilitator will be able to effectively jumpstart the discussions.
Emphasize that the group should not focus on training-related issues because Step 6 of the workshop deals with training.
Try to achieve as broad a consensus as possible.
Do not encumber the workshop with technical considerations related to instructional programming.
Do not allow participants to move the sheets used during the task and operations analysis.
Emphasize that the workshop facilitator also acts as moderator.
Avoid prolonged debates and off-topic comments.
Give the teaching specialists the right to intervene if they have any questions or require explanations.
Clearly explain the reasons for the teachers’ attendance as observers.
Make sure the workshop facilitation team does not take a stand on the workshop content.
Plan for periods when the facilitation team can meet, at the beginning and end of each day, to modify the schedule and methods, take stock of the progress made, prepare proposals, etc.