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As part of the Training the Trainer strand at #BCLT2020, I learned a lot about what makes great workshop leaders:
They create a safe communication environment for students. This is achieved by generating conversation topics and designing exercises that make them reflect. Moreover, they have to let students talk, and intervene only when necessary.
They convey the purpose of each exercise rather than expect participants to guess it.
They have fun and make everyone feel comfortable.
They establish good rapport with their students by responding to their comments, making them feel valued.
They share their excitement and bring energy to the classroom.
They pay attention to how their students are reacting to the class methodology and make any necessary changes on the go, rather than sticking to something that clearly isn’t working. They also ask their students how they feel when trying something new.
The exercises they design convey important messages about translation, the creative process, or the realities of the profession.
They give advice based on their experience, but always clarifying that what they went through doesn’t necessarily apply to everyone, rather than saying “this is the only way to do something.”
They have backup plans if something doesn’t work because of technology constraints truly beyond their control. However, they must master whatever tools they are using.
When they share their perspective, especially regarding their translation method, they emphasize that it has worked for them, but that it may not work for others (otherwise, they may badly influence students who do not have enough tools and experience to make their own opinions).
They give clear instructions and describe everything they will do at the beginning of each session. That way, students have clear goals to follow.
Thanks again to @bcltuea for letting me join. This was a wonderful experience.
