Re: Interesting Angle on the Training Question
Amick Robert (amick@SPOT.COLORADO.EDU)
Fri, 9 Aug 1996 19:51:15 -0600
Drew's point is very accurate. There needs to be a way for the "old
salts" who have "been there, done that" to get a refresher on current
information without going through the whole process again. Most of these
folks probably could teach some of the courses just from their practical
field experience, and could relate some pretty insightful real-world
experience that would be very beneficial for "newbies" who have very
little experience.
The Red Cross has recognized this in their health and safety education
programs. If you have someone who needs to renew a certificate in first
aid or CPR there is a provision for them to take a challenge written and
practical proficiency examination without sitting through an entire course
just to get recertified.
We all benefit from continued learning, but it needs to be relevant and
certainly not repetitively redundant. Every one's time is valuable and
should be spent as efficiently and productively as possible to achieve
objectives.
Scouting's basic principles have not and should not change because they
are very sound. Often too many try to "fix" what isn't broken. Yes there
are good innovations and developments that need to be added, but these are
usually peripheral to the basic concepts and can be handled on "refresher"
or "update" basis.
There is a very strong movement to simplify educational processes so that
they are efficient, effective, relevant and enjoyable for the learner.
The "keep it simple, make it fun" (KISMIF) principle in Scouting has
always been a formula for success, not only for youth but for us gray
haired kids as well.
In the musical, "The King and I" Anna sings a song with the line "...if
you become a teacher, by your pupils you'll be taught..;" Anyone who is a
trainer certainly knows this or discovers it rather quickly; so let's
encourage the development of modules to refresh those who are already
trained but just need updating, and let's take advantage of the wisdom
of these folks by having them share their knowledge and experience with
us.
Bob Amick, Explorer Advisor, High Adventure Explorer Post 72, and
Council Exploring Training Chair, Longs Peak Council, Boulder, CO
Terry Howerton Sakima Group, Inc. SCOUTER Magazine Kansas City | 
