Facilitator Guidelines.docx

Scholarship Learning Community

Facilitator Guidelines

Facilitating a Scholarship Learning Community (SLC) requires careful planning, organization, and engagement to ensure the group is productive, collaborative, and achieves its learning goals. Here are some key facilitator guidelines:

1. Scheduling Meetings:
   • The facilitator is responsible for scheduling monthly meetings for the SLC group throughout the academic year. These meetings should be planned at the beginning of the term, with consideration for the group's schedules.
   • If a meeting needs to be rescheduled, it should be done as soon as possible, and the facilitator should aim to reschedule the meeting within the same month. This helps maintain continuity and ensures the group stays on track.
2. Attendance Requirements:
   • Regular attendance is critical for the success of the SLC. The facilitator should communicate the importance of participation and set expectations for attendance at the start of the year.
   • If a participant misses more than one meeting per quarter, on average, the facilitator may need to consider the impact on their eligibility for a stipend. This should be communicated at the start of the year, so everyone is aware of the requirements.
   • If a participant’s absence exceeds the limit, the facilitator should address the issue promptly, possibly suggesting alternatives to help them engage, such as makeup sessions or remote participation options, if appropriate.
3. Setting Clear Expectations:
   • The facilitator should outline the goals of the SLCearly on and ensure that each participant understands their role and the topic they’ll be exploring throughout the year.
   • In addition to attendance, participants should be expected to actively contributeto discussions, share resources, and engage in collaborative learning activities.
   • It’s also helpful for the facilitator to explain the final sharing process—how the group will present their learning to the larger DePaul community—so participants are prepared to contribute towards this end goal. This might evolve over the course of the SLC as the outcomes may change as the group works through their topic.
4. Facilitating Discussion and Learning:
   • As the leader of the group, the facilitator should guide the discussions, ensure that everyone’s voice is heard, and keep the group focused on the topic at hand. Some groups may choose a different leader each week, depending on the nature of the SLC format.
   • It is helpful for the facilitator to periodically check in with the group on how they are progressing and adjust meeting agendas or activities to meet the needs of the participants.
5. Resource Sharing:
   • Facilitators should encourage members to share resources related to the topic of the SLC, whether it be articles, books, videos, or tools. This creates a rich learning environment where everyone can benefit from each other’s expertise and insights.
   • The facilitator may also bring external resources or experts into meetings to enrich the group’s learning.
6. Final Presentation/Sharing:
   • The facilitator will have a mid-point meeting with the ORS SLC Committee to provide an update on the status of the SLC. There will also be a formal presentation at the end of the academic year, with other SLC facilitators, to the ORS SLC Committee.
   • The facilitator should help guide the SLC towards its final presentation at the end of the academic year. This might include deciding on the format (e.g., a presentation, panel discussion, workshop) and identifying key points to share.
   • They should also ensure that each member of the group has an opportunity to contribute to the final presentationin a meaningful way, whether by presenting, leading part of the discussion, or summarizing the group's work.
7. Communication:
   • Open, clear, and consistent communication is key for a successful SLC. The facilitator should use email or their D2L site to remindparticipants about meeting times, share relevant resources, and provide updates on progress.
   • If any issues arise, such as a member missing a meeting or needing assistance, the facilitator should communicate directly with the individual to address the situation.
8. Stipend and Accountability:
   • Since a stipend is tied to participation, the facilitator should keep accurate records of attendance and engagement. Participants who meet the attendance requirements and contribute meaningfully to the group’s progress will be eligible for the stipend.
   • The facilitator may also need to explain how the stipend will be awarded, based on attendance, participation, and the final sharing of the group's learning with the DePaul community.

By adhering to these guidelines, the facilitator will help create a productive, engaging, and enriching experience for all participants in the Scholarship Learning Community.