Page 9 - Peer 2 Peer Learning Start-up kit

Challenges
Often group members object to the cost of running
a peer-to-peer group, especially having a facilitator. Reflecting on the value of the group and what has been achieved can help with this, as it highlights what role the facilitator has in achieving this. You can read more about the benefits of facilitation here: https://www. ruralnewsgroup.co.nz/rural-news/rural-agribusiness/ the-power-of-good-facilitation.
Distance
Distance isn’t the barrier it once was. Online technology such as Zoom or Teams can be a great asset in keeping up the group momentum with more regular meetings without leaving home. This blog link gives some tips to assist the planning
of on-line sessions. https://workshopswithwow. com/2020/09/23/extension-virtually/.
We can also use this technology to access subject matter experts rather than having to pay for travel expenses. More information can be found in
the blog link here: https://workshopswithwow. com/2015/08/07/a-workshop-too-far/.
Time
“I haven’t got enough time” is a common challenge for groups!
z Provide a mix of online and physically face to face to minimise time away.
z Demonstrate the value to members. Use facilitator techniques to help members reflect and recognise what they are getting out of the group.
z Ensure the group focus is relevant and topical and revisit this regularly.
Money
Prompts
Tips
Run the first meeting in a neutral venue, e.g. the local town hall or sports centre, rather than on-farm in someone’s shed.
What decisions are you getting stuck on at present? What decisions are you finding hard at the moment? How much did that cost?
How much was that worth?
What do the group members expect from their facilitator?
How do you want to treat each other? How do you want to work together?
What do you want to focus on?
What would help with your tough decisions?
Would anyone else like to add to the discussion? Who has a different idea?
What do we need to do before the next activity?
Who are the key people who will assist the facilitator?
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