Page 7 - Peer 2 Peer Learning Start-up kit

Challenges
When connecting a peer-to-peer group, a connector can feel forced to move into the facilitator role. However, take the time to reflect and be clear on the role you want to take on with the group. It is fine to stay in the connector role.
Hold a preliminary meeting. This will help generate or gauge the level of interest in forming an action group. This could be an informal gathering over lunch or dinner or come at the end of a field day or seminar.
At the initial meeting record the names and contact details of those attending so you can follow up potential membership.
Outline the opportunities that exist for peer-to-peer groups.
You might facilitate a discussion of these opportunities
by asking small groups to talk about what are some of the
big decisions, they will have to make over the coming 12 months? What are they finding challenging? Use this as a way of starting to gauge whether there is a common purpose amongst the farm businesses present.
Follow-up those who are keen, with the aim of getting approximately seven to nine farm businesses involved.
Prompt them to keep thinking about the on-farm decisions they are finding challenging or getting stuck on at present and to give consideration towards what their farm business goals are, as a means of helping determine the focus/objective for the group.
An overview for those connecting is provided at Appendix 1.
z Being a connector, provides a learning opportunity, not only for group members but you as well.
Tips
z The connector role is a chance for producers to develop their leadership skills in a safe environment with their peers.
z Tap into all the local networks when connecting.
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