Description

The Facilitator Training Workshops are for UTMB faculty members who are expected to facilitate any of the courses in the Integrated Medical Curriculum (IMC), or who need an introduction to the general role of a facilitator in problem-based learning (PBL) and other small group activities. Three sequential workshops are given depending upon the participant’s level of experience with problem-based learning and group facilitation.

1) Introduction to Problem-based Learning

The Introduction to Problem-based Learning Workshop introduces new facilitators to their role in a problem-based learning (PBL) group and provides them with the general knowledge of what is expected of them as a facilitator.

Workshop topics include: 

> What is problem-based learning
> Features of PBL
> Benefits of PBL over other teaching methods
> Expected outcomes of PBL
> PBL case process and session structure
> Developing and using Ground Rules
> Role of the facilitator
         - Facilitating the tutorial process
         - Facilitating group dynamics
         - Serving as a resource
         - Evaluating performance
> Using PBL facilitator guides
> Facilitation skills of an effective PBL tutor and common pitfalls to avoid
> Developmental stages of groups:  phases from start-up to maturity
> Group maintenance
> Facilitator responsibilities at UTMB SOM
> Expectations for students in PBL
> Evaluating students

2) Beginning Facilitation Skills

Our new Beginning Facilitation Skills Workshop, expanding on the Introduction to Problem-based Learning Workshop, focuses on applying and practicing key facilitation skills.  Although this course is designed to extend and refine new facilitators’ skills, it can be beneficial to anyone wishing to enhance their facilitation skills within or outside of the PBL format. New PBL facilitators should attend the Introduction to Problem-based Learning Workshop prior to this class so they will already have a basic understanding of the PBL process. 

         > Distinction between facilitation group content (the task the group is working on) and group process (how the group works on that task)             
   > Group roles related both to task and group process
   > Methods of effective communication to develop the trust and support of others
          - Questioning skills
          - Listening skills/empathy
   > Giving feedback (positive and constructive)
   > Maintaining effective group discussions
   > Debriefing the Learning Process

3) Advanced Facilitator Training Workshop