Engaging Creatively with Non-Traditional Learners Dr. Gary Shepherd

The Aims of this Session To introduce a novel method of Action Learning using pen drawings To describe how this method is used To explain the theoretical origins of this methodology To allow you to experience this method for yourself

Question: How do we encourage groups of non- traditional learners to engage in the process of learning? How can we help these learners develop reflective habits? How do we encourage non-traditional learners to develop their problem solving capabilities in new and novel ways?

Introducing Action Learning with Projective Drawings A technique which is fun- everyone can draw! Simple to organise and run Learners don’t need to be able to write Helps develop reflective discussion and reflective thinking Problem solving tool When incorporated into regular ‘Action’ based sessions, a powerful tool for change

In Practice A group of non-traditional learners meet on a regular basis With the intention of solving problems, changing their behaviour or altering their circumstances Utilising drawings to illustrate their attitudes, feelings or assumptions about their situation

In Practice Learners engage in discussions with other members of the group about what they have drawn Given the opportunity to voice their own opinion but to also listen to other opinions Reflection upon what has been said Commitment to action before the next session

Who Could Benefit from This Approach? Families Young people Work groups

Theoretical Influences Therapy Action Learning Reflection

Therapeutic Influences Freud- The Unconscious Mind Berne- The ‘Life Script’

The Unconscious Mind: Automatic Behaviours, Attitudes and Assumptions

Life Scripts and Repeating habits: Things we are Unable to Change?

Action Learning a method for individual and organization development based upon small groups of colleagues meeting over time to tackle real problems or issues in order to get things done; reflecting and learning with and from their experience and from each other as they attempt to change things.

Reflecting on Experiences Kolb (1984)

The Cycle in Practice Draw Describe DiscussReflect Action

Reflecting in Practice newton.ex.ac.uk/handbook/RAD/Rad-TutReflective.html

How Groups Aid Reflective Understanding

Light bulb Moments

The ‘Ferrari’ Image

Brian- ‘Ill go first, I’m not a very good drawer but that’s supposed to be a Ferrari and there’s a chain at the back with all of these weights on, that’s kind of holding me back and I don’t know really where all those weights and chains are coming from but that’s how I feel. But you know, I want to go and put my foot down, you know but there’s something kind of holding me back’

Gill- ‘When you say that you’re a car that raised the question to me “where do we sit in?” Brian- I’m not the car, the business is the car that’s flying ahead, its not me Gill- OK Carol- Are we the chains then?(looking serious) Gill- I thought about that too (looking serious) Brian- No I just feel that something’s holding me back from moving forwards Carol- Holding you back or the business? Brian- Business, cos its about the business isn’t it, its not about me, its how I feel’

When things Change

“ Gill - I think there's been a shift in that, a big decision and a shift, were not in that battle anymore, I don’t know what has happened, but were not there anymore… I think the needs of the client group are far simpler than we thought, and we have changed our [service delivery]provision to reflect this”

“ Carol- From the last time I was in with the group to last week, I noticed a big difference in Brian and Gill, just in their point of view and their perception of things, it seems like they’re owning the faults and willing to change and accepting that, which is having a big affect on the group dynamic, on the business and because I know Brian and Gill personally I can see it more I think…”

Now its Your Turn! Instructions: Imagine how your service will change in the next three years. Draw a picture to illustrate this Tips: Re-read the question. Close your eyes and see the first picture or image that comes into your head.... Draw the picture!

References Berne, E (2002) Transactional Analysis in Psychotherapy: The Classic Handbook to its Principles,Condor Books, London Boud D, Keogh R and Walker D (1985) 'Reflection: Turning Experience in to Learning', London: Kogan Page Gibbs, G. (1988) Learning by doing: a guide to teaching and learning methods. Oxford: Further Education Unit. Kahn M (2002), Basic Freud, Basic Books, USA Kolb D.A. (1984) 'Experiential Learning experience as a source of learning and development', New Jersey: Prentice Hall